At Loeb & Loeb, we represent a broad client base of individuals, including those who are just beginning their financial planning and those who are contemplating retirement and the disposition of their business interests, as well as businesses, fiduciaries and tax-exempt organizations, in a wide range of trust and estate matters ranging from estate plans and the settlement of estate tax issues to the resolution of multimillion-dollar disputes over the distribution of family wealth.
Estate, Gift and Income Tax Planning
Our Trusts and Estates Practice epitomizes the distinction between the traditional “will drafter” and the broad-visioned “estate planner.” We focus on the client’s needs and desired disposition of wealth; analyze projected effects of federal and state income, transfer and estate taxes on the client’s proposed estate plan; and formulate and memorialize the estate plan through a variety of appropriate planning vehicles and properly drafted documents. We also assist in preserving family harmony and structuring estate plans so as to reduce friction within the family group and recognize the differing needs and goals of the family members. We also represent individuals and estates in all major areas of tax controversy, including the settlement of estate and gift tax audits and appeals with the IRS as well as state and local taxing authorities.
Trust and Estate Administration
We represent executors, administrators, trustees and beneficiaries in all areas of probate and estate and trust administration, including the preparation of estate tax returns and assisting fiduciaries with the process of deferring estate taxes for estates with significant interests in closely held businesses.
International Estate Planning
Our practice includes advising on all U.S. income, estate and gift tax aspects of international planning for individuals, families, beneficiaries and trustees.
Planning for Private Equity and Hedge Fund Managers
As part of our broad and extensive practice, our attorneys have specialized knowledge and experience working with private equity and hedge fund managers to address the unique challenges of estate planning with carried interests and other interests in funds.
Charitable Giving and Tax-Exempt Organizations
We counsel private clients in their full range of charitable giving and philanthropic endeavors in connection with the establishment of private foundations and public charities, grant-making activities, tax issues, and disputes surrounding charitable gifts.
Trust and Estate Litigation
Our team also combines extensive litigation experience with in-depth knowledge of trust and probate law and procedures. Our practice encompasses the full range of trust and probate controversies, including will and trust contests, interpretation disputes concerning complex estate planning documents, contested accountings, community property disputes and breach of fiduciary duty claims. We handle discovery, motion practice, settlement negotiations, trials and appeals.
We understand that estate planning, administration and, when necessary, litigation are sensitive and often trying. Therefore, a close attorney-client relationship is crucial when it comes to such legally complex and uniquely personal matters. Through communication and interaction, we take the time to understand our clients’ philosophies and goals so we are better able to offer efficient and sophisticated counsel, anticipate legal pitfalls and design preventive strategies.
