Lawyers Helping Families Build Trusts And Estates Since 1982
When families in Philadelphia face important decisions about their future, Lipsky and Brandt provides clear guidance through every step of the estate planning process. The firm handles everything from basic wills to complex trust structures, ensuring clients receive personalized attention from experienced partners and associates rather than young associates.
Complete Estate Planning Services
Estate planning involves creating documents that protect your family and assets. Lipsky and Brandt offers complete trust creation and administration services, helping clients establish the right structures for their unique situations:
- Trust services: Revocable living trusts and irrevocable trusts tailored to specific family needs
- Essential documents: Will drafting, power of attorney documents, advance directives and healthcare proxy preparations
- Tax planning: Federal estate tax strategies with the current $13.99 million exemption and gift tax planning
- Advanced strategies: Generation-skipping transfer tax planning and charitable giving structures
New Jersey does not impose a state estate tax, but the state maintains an inheritance tax that affects how beneficiaries receive assets. The firm helps clients navigate these tax implications while developing comprehensive plans that benefit both families and communities.
Estate Litigation And Probate Administration
When disputes arise over wills or trust administration, Lipsky and Brandt represents clients in will contests and fiduciary litigation matters. The attorneys handle probate administration efficiently, working directly with families to resolve complex inheritance issues. Their experience includes guardianship proceedings and trust administration disputes that require careful legal analysis.
The firm serves clients throughout Philadelphia, extending across Pennsylvania counties including Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware and Chester, as well as New Jersey communities from Essex to Salem County along the 295 corridor.
Why Is It Important To Have A Trust As Part Of My Estate Plan?
Trusts may provide several key benefits for estate planning. They help avoid probate proceedings, maintain privacy for your family’s financial matters and provide protection if you become unable to manage your affairs. Trusts may also offer potential tax advantages and allow you to control how and when beneficiaries receive their inheritance.
What Impact Will A Trust Have On Estate Taxes?
New Jersey residents benefit from the absence of a state estate tax, but federal estate tax still applies to larger estates at a 40% rate. Properly structured trusts can help minimize federal estate tax liability by removing assets from your taxable estate. Trust planning becomes especially important for estates approaching the federal exemption threshold.
What Estate Planning Documents Are Necessary To Have, Besides Wills And Trusts?
Complete estate planning requires several important documents beyond wills and trusts. You need:
- Durable power of attorney addressing financial matters
- Advance health care directive (Living Wills) outlining your medical preferences
- Healthcare proxy designating someone to make medical decisions if needed
- HIPAA authorization forms allowing your chosen representatives to access medical information
- Guardian nominations for protecting minor children
These documents can round out a robust estate plan.
Ready To Secure Your Family’s Legacy?
Lipsky and Brandt provides direct access to experienced estate planning attorneys without the billable hour pressures found at larger firms. The attorneys work personally with each client to develop comprehensive estate plans that protect families and preserve wealth for future generations. Call 215-922-6644 or send an email to discuss your estate planning needs and learn how proper planning can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.