Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning
Preserving wealth for multiple generations with tax-optimized estate plans
A person drafts a will not for himself but for his heirs. Wills and documents reduce heir disputes and confusion. The most important part of an estate plan is to have one.
As a Tax Attorney, dual-licensed Attorney and CPA with Trust & Estate experience, I provide sound estate plans including tax minimization strategies. If you have a mid to large estate, hire me to check your existing plan or start from scratch.
The Rule Against Perpetuities
I have a unique grasp of the Rule Against Perpetuities — a particular interest of mine in law school. To draft a proper estate plan for a large estate, the drafter must understand this rule. If you have an heirloom asset or want to preserve assets for as many generations as possible, I am your man.
Intervivos Transfers
Many testators make intervivos (living) transfers thinking it is best. Many times, nothing could be further from the truth. The tax consequences of lifetime transfers versus testamentary transfers can be significant, and the wrong choice can cost your heirs dearly.
Will Contests & Litigation
On the litigation side, I have defended an heir in a will contest during a full trial in Denver Probate Court. Wills are typically contested by disinherited heirs claiming undue influence. There are strategies to prevent this, and I can build those safeguards into your estate plan from the beginning.
Tax Issues in Estate Planning
Even small estates involve important tax considerations:
- Bump up in basis and basis lock-in
- Retirement account planning
- Final tax return and strategic estate tax return
- Trust tax return planning and compliance
- Offshore estate planning
- Generation skipping tax
- Unified Credit
What We Draft
- Colorado estate plan — Will, grantor trust, power of attorney, living will, personal property memorandum
- GRATs — Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts
- Irrevocable insurance trusts
- Private family foundations
- Generation-skipping trusts
- Charitable remainder trusts
- Charitable lead trusts
- Family limited partnerships
- Family LLCs
- Guidance for surviving spouses, children, trustees, and executors
- And many more estate and gift tax issues
Get Started
Call (303) 626-7000 or email Phil@ColoradoLegal.com to discuss your estate plan.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact Philip Falco, Attorney & CPA, for expert tax representation in Denver.