The estate administration aspect of his practice covers all levels of litigation in probate and other courts, including all forms of adversary proceedings from Will contests, to defending estates and fiduciaries or advancing beneficiary, creditor or third-party claims. Robert’s litigation background lends a unique perspective to his estate planning technique that essentially embodies the proverb that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. He is highly responsive to handling those estate planning issues that can be sensitive in nature, and his probate litigation experience serves to provide a practical aspect to his client’s estate planning needs.
Representative Experience
Estate Planning
- Assisted hundreds of clients in formulating estate plans which eliminate the potential for estate taxes and provide for asset management and protection
- Created wealth preservation life insurance trusts which can assist heirs as a source of payment of estate taxes
- Assisted in the creation of tax saving family limited partnerships
- Assisted in the creation of the testamentary foundation, which can enable the client to create a legacy that supports ideals consistent with his or her philosophical, moral and philanthropic motives
Probate and Estate Litigation
- Successfully represented both Will proponents and contestants in Will contests
- Effectively advocated on behalf of hundreds of personal representatives in estate administrations facing problems ranging from creditor issues to challenges raised by both beneficiaries and third parties
- Enforced the rights of creditors and beneficiaries in estate proceedings
- Effectively defended the actions of fiduciaries
Representative Clients
- Sharon McCutchin
- Kenneth Standley (PM Standley Motor Cars)
Publications
- Estate Taxes and You, Dallas Business Journal, May 28, 2004