Overview Mark Balk, a Director and Co-Chair of the firm's Private Client and Trust group, represents individuals and families in a very broad range of matters, focusing on both tax and non-tax considerations, pertaining to the ownership, management and transfer of wealth. He assists clients in structuring the optimum ownership of family assets throughout lifetime, and the transfer of assets at death. Mark also works closely with families in developing their charitable giving programs, and in establishing and administering substantial charitable foundations. In addition, Mark is actively involved in the administration and investment of trusts and estates and in advising non-profit organizations, and also in the provision of family office and financial administration services. Representative Experience ˇ Continuous, on-going wealth transfer planning for numerous clients of very substantial means. ˇ Planning significant asset transfers where substantial appreciation in value was anticipated, employing Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts ("GRATs") and other techniques (including pre-IPO transfers). ˇ Use of so-called "defective grantor trusts." ˇ Advice on sophisticated uses of life insurance in estate planning. ˇ Wealth transfer planning for real estate entrepreneurs. ˇ Wealth transfer planning for venture capitalists and other private equity principals. ˇ Creation of family foundations and guidance to the clients involved regarding the formulation and implementation of family grant-making programs. ˇ Financial and legal planning in connection with the sale of family's interest in a large company. Professional and Community Involvement ˇ American College of Trust and Estate Counsel ˇ Boston Probate and Estate Planning Forum Boston Estate Planning Council ˇ Trusts and Estates Section, Boston Bar Association ˇ Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Estate Planning Curriculum Committee ˇ Volunteer Lawyers Project Awa rds and Recognition ˇ Martindale Hubbell Peer Review Rated AV Preeminent ™ ˇ "The Best Lawyers in America", Trusts and Estates, 2006-2012 ˇ Massachusetts Super Lawyer, 2004-2009 Press Releases September 2011
Goulston & Storrs Attorneys Named to 2012 Edition of Best Lawyers® August 2010
Goulston & Storrs Attorneys Named to 2011 Edition of Best Lawyers July 30, 2009
Goulston & Storrs Attorneys Named in 2010 Best Lawyers® Advisories February 2011
Making the Most of the New Tax Law: Estate Planning and Wealth Transfer Strategies in 2011/12 February 2010
Is a Roth Conversion Right for You? November 2008
Wealth Transfer Opportunities in the Current Economic Environment |