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When families clash over control of substantial wealth, whether in connection with the testamentary wishes of a loved one or the management of assets in an estate or trust, hiring the right fiduciary and probate litigator can make all the difference. In this episode, Partner Michael Clear sits down with Wiggin and Dana Partner and Chair of the Fiduciary and Probate Litigation Practice Group, Steve Malech, to unpack the role of a fiduciary and probate litigator in family wealth disputes. Through compelling real-world examples, Steve highlights a variety of practical takeaways for fiduciaries, beneficiaries, and fellow attorneys, offering insights on managing emotions and navigating the intricate landscape of family wealth disputes. Tune in to learn more about the complexities of this practice area and reach out with questions.

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Photo of Michael T. Clear Michael T. Clear

Michael is the Chair of our Private Client Services Department where he leads our group of over 30 lawyers and allied professionals.  As a Partner in the firm’s Private Client Services Department, Michael regularly counsels clients on the far-reaching financial implications of estate…

Michael is the Chair of our Private Client Services Department where he leads our group of over 30 lawyers and allied professionals.  As a Partner in the firm’s Private Client Services Department, Michael regularly counsels clients on the far-reaching financial implications of estate planning, estate and trust administration, probate litigation, and business succession planning. Yet he is also a trained counselor with insight into the family dynamics these matters can effect. Known for his empathy and good humor, he helps clients take prudent action in the face of indecision, hopefully resolving contested issues before litigation. He is also a member of wiggin(x).

Photo of Steven B. Malech Steven B. Malech

As a Partner in the firm’s Litigation Department, Chair of the Fiduciary and Probate Litigation Practice Group and Co-Chair of the Israel Practice Group, Steve’s practice primarily focuses on disputes over the ownership and/or administration of family wealth, including closely held businesses and…

As a Partner in the firm’s Litigation Department, Chair of the Fiduciary and Probate Litigation Practice Group and Co-Chair of the Israel Practice Group, Steve’s practice primarily focuses on disputes over the ownership and/or administration of family wealth, including closely held businesses and other substantial assets. While his work typically involves matters arising in the context of disputes involving trusts and/or estates, Steve also handles a variety of business and other commercial litigation matters. His cases frequently involve underlying assets valued in the tens and hundreds of millions of dollars, including assets held in multiple jurisdictions in the United States and/or abroad. For example, Steve is currently responsible for several matters in which the claims or assets at issue are worth between $10 million and $100 million and several matters in which the claims or assets at issue are worth in excess of $100 million. He is responsible for cases pending in courts throughout the United States, including Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Nevada and New York. A number of these matters involve ancillary proceedings in other countries.

Steve is a relationship-builder and trusted adviser. He provides business-based advocacy designed to achieve his clients’ personal, practical, and financial objectives. As a result, he often represents many clients in connection with a wide range of their business and personal matters.

Steve typically represents beneficiaries, fiduciaries, and creditors in disputes involving alleged breaches of fiduciary duty; disputed accountings; will contests; and alleged violations of the Prudent Investor Act and its predecessors. Steve also represents businesses and individuals in a variety of litigation and regulatory matters involving contract, consumer protection, employment, non-compete, and other regulatory disputes.