Practice Group | Bassford Remele

Our Trust and Estate Administration practice is dedicated to guiding individuals, families, and fiduciaries through the complex process of managing and distributing assets after a loved one's passing. Our experienced attorneys provide comprehensive services to ensure that estates and trusts are administered efficiently, respecting the wishes of the deceased while minimizing tax liabilities and potential disputes.

Services

• Probate and Estate Administration: We assist executors and administrators in navigating probate proceedings, including the preparation and filing of probate documents. Our team guides clients through the process of notifying beneficiaries and creditors, gathering and valuing assets, paying debts, and distributing assets according to the estate plan.
• Trust and Asset Management: Our firm offers comprehensive trust and asset management services, providing guidance on trust distributions, asset management, and tax planning to ensure smooth administration. We represent trustees and beneficiaries in trust matters and advise on the ongoing administration of irrevocable trusts. Our team works closely with financial advisors, tax preparers, and other professionals to safeguard and optimize the value of estate assets, ensuring they are managed prudently and in accordance with the decedent's intentions.
• Tax Planning and Compliance: Our firm provides strategic postmortem tax planning and compliance services to maximize tax efficiency and protect estate value. We offer guidance on estate tax elections, disclaimers, and deductions, and assist with funding estate tax obligations, including strategies for illiquid estates. Our attorneys advise tax preparers to ensure all necessary tax filings are completed accurately and on time, navigating the complexities of estate and inheritance taxes to minimize liabilities for beneficiaries.
• Fiduciary Representation: We represent executors, administrators, trustees, and beneficiaries in all aspects of their fiduciary responsibilities, including income taxation, gift taxation, and estate taxation.
• Litigation and Dispute Resolution: Our attorneys handle trust and estate-related controversies, including will contests, beneficiary disputes, and fiduciary liability issues. We work to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively, minimizing the impact on our clients.

We recognize that every client and estate is unique, and our approach is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each client. We work closely with clients, their financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals to address the legal, financial, and personal aspects of estate administration. Our priority is to minimize stress and tax burdens while maximizing the retained value of the estate for beneficiaries. We foster open communication and collaboration, building relationships based on trust and transparency to align our services with each client's personal and financial objectives.

By providing personalized and informed guidance, we help clients navigate the complexities of trust and estate administration, ensuring that the wishes of the deceased are respected and their legacies are preserved for future generations. At Bassford Remele, we are committed to delivering exceptional service and results in Trust and Estate Administration with professionalism and care.