Trust & Estate Litigation

When disagreements arise over estate plans, fiduciary conduct, or the succession of a family business, the transition can become especially challenging. Our Trust & Estate Litigation Group helps clients navigate these moments with clarity, discretion, and strategic insight, delivering client‑centered solutions that protect financial resources, reduce strain, and guide each matter toward a fair and durable resolution.

Overview

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 group 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 Group 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.