Probate and Estate Planning

Probate and Estate Planning Attorneys

At Cotton Bledsoe Tighe & Dawson, our philosophy is based upon the belief that estate planning involves both planning to live effectively, productively, securely, and with maximum self-determination, and planning for one's death in a way that gives final meaning and worth to one's life. In implementing this philosophy, we use both traditional and innovative estate planning techniques.

Estate Planning

The attorneys in our estate planning group have the same high quality credentials as the other attorneys at Cotton Bledsoe. We have three members who are board certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law, and who also belong to the College of the State Bar, recognizing excellence in continuing legal education.

Our estate planning attorneys regularly advise clients and implement plans involving the use of:

• Wills
• Trusts
• Family limited partnerships
• Business agreements relating to closely held businesses
• Tax issues (transfer, gift, generation skipping)
• Marital property agreements
• Many other planning documents

Click here for a list of frequently asked questions about planning your estate with Cotton Bledsoe.

Self-Determination Documents

The firm counsels clients regarding their needs with respect to powers of attorney, advance medical directives, pre-need guardianship designations, and organ donations. We also handle many other related planning issues. These types of documents allow our clients to effectively plan for the future while maintaining the ability to be responsible for their own affairs as long as they are able.

Administration of Estates

Our lawyers are skilled in the administration of decedent's estates, both in probate and non-probate matters. We regularly handle:

• Taxable and non-taxable estates
• Administration of guardianship estates
• Administration of living trust agreements
• Administration of estates of decedents
• Other related issues

Click here for a list of frequently asked questions about administering your decedent's estates with us.

Fiduciary Duty Litigation Support

When executors, trustees, or other fiduciaries find themselves in litigation, our estate planning and probate lawyers provide substantial support to our litigation section. We are also often asked to represent beneficiaries of estates or trusts in order to protect their rights when it appears that those administering estates or trusts are breaching their fiduciary duties.

When you are ready to plan for your family's future, contact us for advice, assistance, and skilled representation.