The transfer of wealth after the loss of a loved one can be an emotionally charged and financially significant transition. These challenges are heightened when disagreements arise over estate plans, fiduciary conduct, asset management, or the succession of a family business. Our trust & estate litigation attorneys help clients navigate these moments with clarity, discretion, and sound strategy.
A Deep Bench of Experience
Trust and estate disputes often sit at the intersection of business litigation, real estate, and sophisticated trust and estate law. Our attorneys offer a rare combination of skill sets across these disciplines.
Our team is consistently recognized for excellence. Ann Wilson, Karolyn Hicks, and Alison Warden are ranked in Chambers USA High Net Worth (HNW) Guide for private wealth disputes, and the Trust & Estate Litigation team itself is ranked as a leading practice in Washington.
We also collaborate closely with our estate planning colleagues, who are similarly recognized as a top-tier practice. This seamless partnership strengthens our ability to analyze complicated planning structures and develop effective litigation and resolution strategies.
Strategic, Client-Centered Solutions
Because of our experience, we can quickly assess the strengths and risks of each matter and advise on the best path forward—whether that means negotiation, mediation, or litigation. We prioritize approaches that protect our clients’ financial resources, reduce emotional strain, and, when possible, prevent disputes from escalating into full-scale lawsuits.
Clients We Serve
We represent a wide spectrum of clients, including:
• Individuals navigating disputes following the death of a family member
• Personal representatives and trustees
• Estate and trust beneficiaries, including high-net-worth individuals
• Professional fiduciaries who require counsel with sophisticated subject-matter expertise
Our clients’ needs vary widely, and we tailor our approach accordingly. Whether advising a fiduciary on fulfilling complex duties or assisting beneficiaries in resolving contested issues, we bring balanced judgment, technical skill, and a commitment to achieving fair and durable resolutions.
guardianship & elder law
Guardianship and conservatorship matters often involve complex family, financial, and legal issues. Our Guardianship & Elder Law team represents vulnerable adults, family members, fiduciaries, and other interested parties in proceedings involving guardianships, conservatorships, vulnerable adult protection, and related disputes.
Learn more about our Guardianship & Elder Law practice.
Dedicated Appellate Representation for Trust & Estate Matters
When a trust or estate dispute moves beyond the trial court, experienced appellate counsel can be critical. Our Trust & Estate Appellate Litigation team focuses on appeals, discretionary review, and issue preservation in TEDRA and related proceedings.
Learn more about our Trust & Estate Appellate Litigation team.
Explore our case alerts & insights
Our attorneys regularly provide insights on key cases, litigation trends, and emerging legal issues, offering practical guidance and informed perspectives on the evolving trust and estate dispute landscape.
Click here to access our T&E Litigation Newsroom.
