In this episode, Host Michael Clear is joined by a special guest, Senior Practice Manager Dan Maloney, who shares how his unique role helps shape client experience, team culture and business development at Wiggin and Dana. From onboarding and retention efforts to leveraging technology, like automation bots and project management software, and exploring creative marketing strategies, Dan offers a behind-the-scenes look at the operational heartbeat of the department. Tune in to hear how thoughtful strategy and collaboration drive excellence beyond the legal work.

 In this episode of Future Focused: Sophisticated Estate Planning, hosts Michael Clear and Erin Nicholls are joined by Corporate Partners Scott McClure and Len Gray to discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is expanding opportunities with qualified small business stock (QSBS). OBBBA brought about key updates to QSBS, including an increased capital gain exclusion amount, a higher asset threshold for a company to qualify as a small business, and reduced holding periods. Tune in, as this conversation emphasizes the importance of proactive tax planning for founders and business owners to maximize their benefits under this new legislation.

In this episode of Future Focused: Sophisticated Estate Planning, Partner Erin Nicholls and Associate Sara Osinski examine the complexities of managing private foundations. They focus on how the 5% minimum distribution requirement is calculated, including the role of administrative expenses. The conversation highlights the importance of federal compliance through Form 990-PF and stresses the need for accurate documentation. They also share best practices such as holding annual board meetings, consulting advisors, and obtaining pre-approval for scholarship programs. Key compliance risks like self-dealing are also addressed, reinforcing the importance of strong governance.

Today marks a special milestone, our 50th episode! Since launching in 2023, we've had the privilege of engaging with thought leaders, innovators, and trusted advisors to explore the most pressing issues shaping families and their wealth. To celebrate, we’re taking a moment to reflect. In this episode, we’ll revisit some of the standout conversations that have defined our journey, from generational transitions and philanthropic strategy to the intricacies of tax and trust administration. Whether you've been with us from the start or are tuning in for the first time, we’re grateful to have you as part of this community. Here's to 50 episodes, and many more to come!

In the final episode of the Speaker Showcase, Partners Steve Malech and Matt Smith discuss the complexities of estate planning, particularly in the context of divorce and family disputes. They highlight the importance of clear definitions in legal documents, the potential for costly litigation, and the challenges posed by multi-jurisdictional assets. They emphasize the need for proactive legal advice to navigate these issues effectively and avoid misunderstandings that can lead to significant financial and familial turmoil.

In the second episode of Future Focused: Sophisticated Estate Planning Speaker Showcase, Private Client Services Partner Vanessa Maczko and Corporate Partner Jack Sousa discuss estate planning strategies, with a focus on business owners and succession planning for both family and non-family enterprises. The discussion highlights the importance of structuring ownership using voting and non-voting shares to balance control with marketability. It also explores how liquidity solutions, such as life insurance, can support seamless ownership transitions in the event of a member’s passing.

By bridging corporate and estate planning, the conversation emphasizes the need for thoughtful equity transfer strategies and well-timed decisions that can significantly improve business valuation and long-term success.

In the inaugural episode of our Speaker Showcase, Partners Michael Clear and Erin Nicholls explore the evolving landscape of estate planning, with a special focus on strategies for middle and high-net-worth clients in Connecticut. The discussion addresses the potential sunset of the estate and gift tax exemptions in 2026, offering practical gifting strategies to maximize the currently high exemption amount. Michael and Erin also highlight Connecticut's latest advancements in trust modifications and non-judicial settlement agreements, and caution practitioners on the potential tax implications that may arise from enacting these strategies. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on hot, hot topics in estate planning.

Digital Assets may be poised to revolutionize the financial world and the velocity of moving money across the economy. On this episode of Future Focused: Sophisticated Estate Planning, host Erin Nicholls and Corporate partner R.J. Kornhaas welcome guest Jake Claver, Managing Director of Digital Ascension Group, a multifamily office serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients. Jake shares his background in mergers and acquisitions and how his success in traditional markets ultimately led him to cryptocurrency and an expertise on digital assets. Discover how investment in digital assets could transform the future of financial transactions, providing opportunities for attorneys, financial advisors and CPAs to grow their knowledge and better advise their clients on these verticals. Tune in for valuable insights into the realm of digital assets.

The disposition of unique assets like art collections requires proper planning. On this episode, Partner Michael Clear and Associate Kaitlyn Pacelli speak with Deborah Robinson, Partner at Art Market Advisors. Deborah emphasizes the importance of early conversations to streamline the process. She also dives into the implications of appraisals, sales, and the division of collections, offering valuable guidance for families and trustees. Tune in to gain valuable insights into managing unique assets during your lifetime and ensuring the proper plan is in place to dispose of those assets after death.

When families clash over control of substantial wealth, whether in connection with the testamentary wishes of a loved one or the management of assets in an estate or trust, hiring the right fiduciary and probate litigator can make all the difference. In this episode, Partner Michael Clear sits down with Wiggin and Dana Partner and Chair of the Fiduciary and Probate Litigation Practice Group, Steve Malech, to unpack the role of a fiduciary and probate litigator in family wealth disputes. Through compelling real-world examples, Steve highlights a variety of practical takeaways for fiduciaries, beneficiaries, and fellow attorneys, offering insights on managing emotions and navigating the intricate landscape of family wealth disputes. Tune in to learn more about the complexities of this practice area and reach out with questions.