Attorneys in the Estate Planning and Administration Department are committed to guiding our clients through the personal and often complex issues involved in this area of the law. In addition to bringing a wide range of experience and depth of understanding to estate planning and administration matters, the firm's attorneys keep abreast of ongoing changes in the laws and tax regulations governing estates and stand ready to assist our clients in dealing with those changes.
With respect to Estate Planning, our attorneys are engaged in handling estates of all sizes; advising clients on issues concerning tax savings as well as concepts for the protection of assets; and drafting documents appropriate for each client's unique circumstances. Wills and trusts are drafted, either separately or in tandem, so that tax savings will be maximized and assets distributed to beneficiaries according to the client's wishes. Financial and Health Care powers of attorney are drafted to reflect the financial and/or health care goals of the client. Advance directives or living wills are prepared to provide directions to family members in end of life situations.
Estate Administration involves the work required to complete the financial affairs of a decedent. We offer assistance to executors and administrators in meeting their legal responsibilities and fiduciary obligations at what is often a very difficult time for an individual who may be appointed under a decedent's will. This work includes providing legal representation and assistance to the named executor or administrator in gathering assets, paying bills, preparing tax returns and ultimately distributing the balance of an estate to the named beneficiaries. After-death tax planning can also be done in appropriate situations.  Representatives of the Department are also experienced in working with the Trust Departments of banks and other financial institutions and have been named to fiduciary positions by financial institutions as well as by the Court.
The issues of estate taxation and the passing of wealth to succeeding generations are in constant flux. Changes in the law and in an individual's personal circumstances require periodic review of one's will, power of attorney, trust instruments and property ownership. The attorneys at Buckley, Brion, Morris, McGuire & Sommer LLP remain committed to assisting our clients in dealing with these matters.
| 
