Estate Planning

Sophisticated Asset Protection

Greenwich, Connecticut, Estate Planning Lawyer

Custom Solutions for Small, Medium and Large Estates

For peace of mind for you and your family, I provide comprehensive estate planning services. From wills and trusts to strategies for large estates subject to federal estate taxes, I represent clients all along the estate planning spectrum.

The important thing is to begin planning today for a future that may come too soon. My firm, Eric Anderson, Attorney at Law, is located in Greenwich, Connecticut and serves clients in southwestern Fairfield County. I also serve clients in southern Vermont, where I practiced for a number of years. I invite you to start the estate planning process today by arranging an appointment at 203-869-0528.

Small Estates and Basic Considerations

Estates valued at under $2 million are not subject to any significant taxation, other than the Connecticut inheritance tax for heirs who are not a spouse or child. My primary focus is ensuring that assets pass to your intended heirs with minimum administrative hassle, and helping clients prepare for contingencies:

• A will to specify who inherits
• Various trusts to manage assets and distribute them at death, including trusts to provide for minor children or family members with special needs
• A living will to express your wishes regarding end of life matters such as medical care and funeral arrangements.
• A medical power of attorney to guide family members and physicians if you cannot make decisions about your health
• A durable power of attorney appointing a trusted person to manage your personal affairs if you are incapacitated

For clients with limited assets, I will also explore Medicaid planning to anticipate nursing home care without spending down the entire estate to qualify.

Medium Estates

Estates valued between $2 million and $5 million require some tax avoidance strategies to avoid triggering federal "death taxes." After taking a look at your assets, I will advise on the most appropriate estate planning options, including a credit shelter trust or marital deduction trust.

Large Estates

If your total portfolio exceeds $5 million, it takes sophisticated tax minimization tools to curtail state and federal estate taxes. I have extensive experience with the array of trusts to accomplish these goals, including generation-skipping trusts and creation of family limited partnerships to pass a family-owned business to children with the minimal tax impact.

I also assist clients with non-tax objectives regarding how assets are distributed. I can prepare wills and trusts that stipulate heirs must wait a certain number of years, attain a certain age, or meet specific criteria (e.g., earning a college degree) before they inherit.

As a lawyer practicing solo, I personally meet with clients and take the time to fully understand and implement their goals through an individualized and comprehensive estate plan. Call my Greenwich office today at 203-869-0528 or contact me online. I can arrange evening or weekend consultations if that is more convenient.