Trust, Estate & Fiduciary Litigation
Graydon lawyers understand that trust, estate, and fiduciary disputes involve more than money. They often involve emotional issues that can divide families: one family member exerting undue influence over another; the theft of assets from a loved one by someone in a position of trust; a dispute among beneficiaries of a trust or a will over the distribution of assets. And they usually share a common element – a breach of trust. The actions underlying these disputes can fracture family ties and cause feelings of betrayal and resentment. Graydon attorneys understand that. We appreciate the dynamics behind the dispute, and we understand that the consequences are not just monetary. We look for creative solutions, with the goal of avoiding protracted litigation and preserving family relationships. But when necessary, we vigorously and tirelessly advocate to protect and to advance our clients' interests.
We have represented clients in will contests, disputes over the meaning of will and trust provisions, estate-tax litigation, claims of imprudent investments, and a range of other contested matters. We have defended fiduciaries against allegations of improper investing, self-dealing, and fraud. We also advise fiduciaries on “best practices,” interpretation of estate planning instruments, and capacity issues. We have successfully investigated the fraudulent concealment of assets, unraveled the “paper trail,” and recovered the concealed assets. And we have assisted in the recovery of attorney’s fees incurred in those efforts. We serve our clients with expertise, determination, and empathy in this often emotionally-sensitive area.