In the inaugural 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 Montana Supreme Court in The Matter of the Estate of Jessie L. Beck, 418 Mont. 416 (2024) considered whether under Montana law, a cell phone video met the requirements of a validly executed last will and testament. The answer was a resounding no.
Four days prior to the decedent’s death, he recorded a
When it comes to estate and gift taxation, non-U.S. citizens face unique challenges based on their residence and domicile status. Understanding these concepts is crucial for effective estate planning and tax management.
Determining Domicile for Estate and Gift Tax Purposes
Estate and gift taxation of non-U.S. citizens is based on residence. For estate and gift
Digital Assets may be poised to revolutionize the financial world and the velocity of moving money across the economy. On this episode of Future Focused: Sophisticated Estate Planning, host Erin Nicholls and Corporate partner R.J. Kornhaas welcome guest Jake Claver, Managing Director of Digital Ascension Group, a multifamily office serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients. Jake
Highlighted by Daniels v. Commissioner
Navigating the complexities of estate tax can be challenging, especially when determining the domicile of a taxpayer with residences in multiple states. In the recent Connecticut Superior Court case, Daniels v. Commissioner, the court faced the intricate task of establishing the domicile of a wealthy individual who divided his
Income and losses generated within a trust must be reported, but the entity or person required to report such income or losses depends on what kind of trust it is. If a trust is a “grantor trust,” the grantor (i.e. the person who funded the trust) is responsible for the reporting and payment of tax.
The disposition of unique assets like art collections requires proper planning. On this episode, Partner Michael Clear and Associate 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
How can you reduce taxes by removing assets from your estate? In this episode, Partner Michael Clear answers this question, highlighting several gifting strategies to shift wealth out of a taxable estate. Michael touches on strategies like making annual exclusion gifts, direct payments for tuition and medical expenses, opening 529 accounts, and creating life insurance