Estate & Trust Administration + Litigation

Resolving Trust and Probate Disputes with Care and Clarity

We represent fiduciaries and beneficiaries in estate and trust disputes, providing thoughtful guidance, exploring settlement options, and delivering focused court advocacy when needed.

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What Our Culture Looks Like in Action

Probate Experience

Representation in contested estate and trust matters.

Balanced Strategy

Careful evaluation of litigation and settlement options.

Trustee & Beneficiary

Advocacy for trustees, executors, and heirs.

Privacy Focused

Sensitivity to family and financial concerns.

Why choose Barton Gilman for estate and trust disputes?

Representing trustees, executors, guardians, and administrators in contested matters.

Advising beneficiaries in will contests and disputed accountings.

Handling claims alleging breach of fiduciary duty.

Interpreting and reforming trust documents when disputes arise.

Pursuing or defending petitions for instructions and declaratory judgment actions.

Our estate litigation team addresses complex probate and trust conflicts

Will Contests & Contested Accounts

Representing clients in disputes over the validity of wills and fiduciary accountings.

Fiduciary Duty Claims

Prosecuting and defending claims against trustees and executors.

Trust Interpretation & Administration

Resolving disagreements regarding the meaning and execution of trust provisions.

Trust Reformation

Seeking court-approved modifications to correct errors or clarify intent.

Declaratory & Instruction Petitions

Guiding fiduciaries through court proceedings to obtain direction and protection.

Representative Successes

How we work

Simplifying Your Journey

Case Evaluation

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We start by examining the trial record to uncover viable grounds for appeal and define a strong foundation.

Review transcripts, filings, and rulings

Identify legal errors and procedural issues

Evaluate likelihood of success on appeal

Strategic Planning

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Every appeal needs a tailored game plan. We map out the approach with clarity and purpose.

Outline key legal arguments and priorities

Select the right appellate court and timing

Coordinate with trial counsel when needed

Writing & Filing

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This is where precision matters most. We craft compelling briefs rooted in law, facts, and persuasion.

Draft clear, concise appellate briefs

Support arguments with strong proofs

Handle all court filings and deadlines

Argument & Decision

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We stand before the appellate bench to advocate with focus, credibility, and confidence.

Deliver persuasive oral arguments

Address judges’ questions with clarity

Keep clients informed and prepared

How we work

Simplifying Your Journey

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Strategic Planning

Develop approach for administration support or dispute resolution
Evaluate negotiation, mediation, or litigation pathways
Prepare clients for procedural requirements and evidentiary needs

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Ongoing Guidance

Secure negotiated agreements, court orders, or adjudicated outcomes
Advise on continued fiduciary duties and compliance obligations
Provide ongoing counsel as administration or litigation progresses

Matter Assessment

Review governing documents, accountings, and communications
Identify contested issues, fiduciary obligations, and potential claims
Assess risks, costs, and privacy considerations

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Advocacy Support

Represent fiduciaries and beneficiaries in contested proceedings
Support trust interpretation, reformation, and instruction petitions
Manage discovery, motion practice, and settlement discussions

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Let’s Talk —

We’re Ready to Help

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