On this episode, host Michael Clear is joined by Wiggin and Dana Litigation Partner Joseph Merschman. Joe and Michael explore the concept of “business divorce,” referring to conflicts among co-owners of closely held companies. These disputes often arise from family tensions, unequal contributions, or shifts in the business’s direction. The episode highlights the importance
In this episode of Future Focused: Sophisticated Estate Planning, Host Michael Clear is joined by Litigation Partner Michael Kenny, where they discuss the complexities of probate disputes, focusing on will contests, particularly related to undue influence and testamentary capacity. As people live longer and healthier lives, Michael Kenny notes that there is growing awareness
In this episode, Host Michael Clear is joined by a special guest, Senior Practice Manager Dan Maloney, who shares how his unique role helps shape client experience, team culture and business development at Wiggin and Dana. From onboarding and retention efforts to leveraging technology, like automation bots and project management software, and exploring creative marketing
Serving as an agent under a Power of Attorney entails certain fiduciary obligations, including the duty to act in good faith in all dealings on behalf of the principal. A key component of this duty is maintaining accurate and detailed records of all actions taken as agent and, upon request, being able to provide evidence
In this episode of Future Focused: Sophisticated Estate Planning, hosts Michael Clear and Erin Nicholls are joined by Corporate Partners Scott McClure and Len Gray to discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is expanding opportunities with qualified small business stock (QSBS). OBBBA brought about key updates to QSBS, including an increased
Today marks a special milestone, our 50th episode! Since launching in 2023, we’ve had the privilege of engaging with thought leaders, innovators, and trusted advisors to explore the most pressing issues shaping families and their wealth. To celebrate, we’re taking a moment to reflect. In this episode, we’ll revisit some of the standout conversations that
In the premiere episode of our Speaker Showcase, Partners Michael Clear and Erin Nicholls explore the evolving landscape of estate planning, with a special focus on strategies for middle and high-net-worth clients in Connecticut. The discussion addresses the potential sunset of the estate and gift tax exemptions in 2026, offering practical gifting strategies to maximize
The death of a serving executor or administrator (a “fiduciary”) during the administration of a loved one’s estate can add to the stress of an already overwhelming process. Fortunately, Connecticut law provides a clear framework to transition between fiduciaries and ensure the estate progresses in a timely manner.
Understanding the Roles: Executor vs. Administrator
An
The disposition of unique assets like art collections requires proper planning. On this episode, Partner Michael Clear and Counsel Kaitlyn Pacelli speak with Deborah Robinson, Partner at Art Market Advisors. Deborah emphasizes the importance of early conversations to streamline the process and dives into the implications of appraisals, sales, and the division of collections, offering
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