Trusted Estate and Trust Attorneys Serving New York and New Jersey
At the core of our Trusts and Estates Practice Group is a commitment to delivering client-focused, strategic legal solutions. With over a century of combined experience, our tax, trusts and estate attorneys proudly assist individuals, families, and business owners across multiple generations in navigating the complexities of estate planning, wealth transfer, and elder care law.
Comprehensive Estate and Trust Services Tailored to You
We understand that every client’s situation is unique. That’s why our New York and New Jersey estate planning attorneys offer a full spectrum of services designed to meet your specific goals, whether it’s achieving tax-efficient wealth transfers, securing Medicaid qualifications, or ensuring your charitable giving plans align with your legacy.
Our services include:
- Sophisticated Tax-Efficient Planning: Minimize estate and gift taxes while maximizing wealth transfer.
- Custom Wills and Trusts: Drafting wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, life insurance trusts, and asset preservation trusts.
- Business Succession Planning: Helping closely-held businesses transition seamlessly to the next generation.
- Medicaid and Elder Care Strategies: Structuring asset transfers for Medicaid qualification and long-term care planning.
- Special Needs Trusts: Protecting the future of loved ones with special needs.
- Charitable Gift Plans: Creating private foundations, donor-advised funds, charitable annuities, and more.
- Estate and Gift Tax Returns: Preparing and filing accurate Federal and State returns.
- Litigation Support: Handling will contests, trust disputes, and fiduciary litigation.
Dedicated to Securing Your Legacy
When it comes to estate administration, our estate attorneys guide fiduciaries through their rights and obligations with unmatched professionalism and empathy. We take pride in drafting precise legal instruments, analyzing life insurance policies, and creating tailored agreements to meet the needs of families and business owners alike.
For business owners, we provide critical support in crafting succession plans that safeguard the legacy of your enterprise. Our legal team excels in navigating the unique challenges of closely-held businesses, ensuring your wishes are upheld and your assets are protected for future generations.
Why Choose Us?
With a deep understanding of estate, trust, and elder care laws in New York and New Jersey, we’re prepared to address even the most complex legal matters. Whether you’re creating a new estate plan or addressing a pressing legal issue, our experienced attorneys are here to provide compassionate, client-centered guidance every step of the way.
Secure Your Family’s Future Today
Don’t wait to plan for the future. Contact our Trusts and Estates attorneys to schedule a consultation. Let us help you safeguard your legacy and protect the interests of your loved ones for years to come.
Gift Tax Return & Valuation Webinar
May 13, 2025
Nearly 200 CPAs from across New Jersey tuned in for a recent NJCPA webinar led by Martin D. Hauptman and Jason A. Marx. The session covered key considerations when preparing gift tax returns and addressed complex valuation issues that practitioners frequently encounter. Martin and Jason shared practical tips, answered questions in real time, and offered […]
Steve Holt Answers Estate Planning Question for NJ Money Help
February 27, 2025
Steven Holt, partner and chair of the Tax Law, Trusts, and Estates Practices at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, recently answered a question for NJ Money Help regarding whether a trust is necessary for estate planning in New Jersey. Holt explained that since New Jersey has no estate tax and the federal exemption is $13.99 million for […]
10th Annual Tax Trusts & Estates Forum – Resources
December 2, 2024
Please find our presentation and resources for the 10th Annual Tax, Trusts & Estates Forum below: Full Presentation Connelly Analysis – Steven Holt 2025 Tax Changes –Martin D. Hauptman
10th Annual Tax, Trusts & Estates Forum – Tuesday, December 3, 2024
October 30, 2024
Please find our presentation and resources for the 10th Annual Tax, Trusts & Estates Forum below: Full Presentation Connelly Analysis – Steven Holt 2025 Tax Changes –Martin D. Hauptman Whether you’re a seasoned financial professional or simply eager to stay ahead, we invite you to the 10th Annual Tax, Trusts & Estates Forum, a premier […]
Shawn McClelland Unveils QITs: NJ MoneyHelp’s Guide to Medicaid Maximization
October 2, 2023
Qualified Income Trust (QIT) can be a life-saver for those exceeding Medicaid’s income limits. Navigating the complex financial landscape of Medicaid can pose significant challenges for many. However, a lifesaving beacon emerges for those exceeding Medicaid’s income limits through the use of a Qualified Income Trust (QIT). Shawn McClelland, partner in Trusts and Estates and […]
Alex Keoskey and Jason Marx to exhibit at upcoming TriState Medical Conference
August 31, 2023
Alex J. Keoskey, Esq., Healthcare and Litigation Partner and Jason E. Marx, Esq., Tax, Trusts & Estates Partner at Mandelbaum Barrett PC will be exhibiting at the NJAOPS TriState Medical Conference on September 28th, 2023 at the Hyatt Regency in Morristown, NJ. The New Jersey Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (NJAOPS) is the sixth […]
8th Tax, Trusts & Estates Forum
December 9, 2022
For the first time in two years we hosted our Tax Trusts and Estates Forum in person! We were thrilled to see so many familiar faces, and to welcome new ones. This event is focused on helping business owners and financial advisors stay on top of current changes to IRS rules, learn best practices and […]
Mom died. How can we deduct property taxes on her house? – Jason Marx Authors for NJ.com
November 7, 2022
Q: My mother, 96, died in July of 2022. Her house remains in her name. While the house is technically titled in her name, I assume that as of the date of her death, it became part of her estate. Property taxes are due soon. If these property taxes are paid out of her estate, […]
“How can I get senior community to release assets to this trust?”
April 11, 2022
Steven Holt, Esq., Chair of the Tax Law and Trusts & Estates departments at Mandelbaum Barrett PC was recently interviewed by NJ.com to answer this question. “The solution here is to reach out to the community and have them explain why they are asking for this and alert them to the fact that the unit is held […]
Steven Holt, Esq. was recently interviewed for an NJ.com article titled “Executor won’t sell this house. What can we do?”
April 8, 2022
“As part of their fiduciary obligations, the executors must protect the assets of the estate and act to facilitate the disposition of the assets consistent with the will,” Mr. Holt states. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3umz9U9
Marc Comer Interviewed on Kramer's Millionaire Maker
July 24, 2020
Marc Comer was a guest on the nationally syndicated radio show, Kramer’s Millionaire Maker. Marc discussed estate planning issues, including intestacy laws, the importance of wills and trusts; and the roles played by executors, trustees and guardians.
Richard Miller Answers a NJ.com Readers Question on Inheritance Tax
December 26, 2019
Richard I. Miller answered a NJ.com readers question on "Can I avoid the inheritance tax for nieces and nephews?" Read what Richard had to say here.
Join Us For Our 7th Annual Tax, Trusts & Estate Planning Forum
November 7, 2019
We will be discussing timely developments in Estate and Federal Taxation at this 1.5 CE accredited program for CPAs and CFPs. To RSVP, please contact Laure Lynch at 973.243.7951 or llynch@lawfirm.ms.
Join Mandelbaum Barrett PC and Sobel Co., LLC for Retirement Plans: The Pros and Cons of a Pre-Approved Plan Breakfast Seminar
July 24, 2019
Attention Business Owners: You don't want to miss this informative program on Retirement Plans: The Pros and Cons of a Pre-Approved Plan being held at Mandelbaum Barrett PC on September 25th from 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Join Mandelbaum Barrett PC and Sobel & Co., LLC for our breakfast seminar that will cover retirement plans from the legal and accounting perspective. Learn about best practices if you sponsor a qualified plan, prototype pre-approved plans, new IRS Correction Procedures and common plan issues identified by auditors.
Martin D. Hauptman appointed to a three year term as a Consultor to the Real Property Trust and Estate section of the New Jersey State Bar Association
June 13, 2019
Congratulations to Martin D. Hauptman, a partner in the Firm's #Trusts & #Estates practice group, who was appointed to a three year term as a Consultor to the Real Property Trust and Estate section of the @New Jersey State Bar Association. The Real Property Trust and Estate Law Section discusses developments in real #property, trust and estate law, including the creation and# administration of estates, #wills and trusts. Please join us in congratulating Martin on this achievement!
Join us for our 6th Annual Tax, Trusts and Estates Breakfast on December 4th!
October 23, 2018
Join Mandelbaum Barrett PC on December 4th for our 6th Annual Tax, Trusts and Estate Planning Forum at Mayfair Farms in West Orange New Jersey!
Steven Holt Answers NJ.com Reader's Question on Financial Responsibilities When a Spouse Dies
October 8, 2018
Steven Holt answered a reader's question on NJ.com about a recent widow's inheritence and what steps to take next. Click here to read more.
Steven Holt Answers Reader Question on NJ.com About an Inherited IRA
October 4, 2018
Steven Holt, Chair of Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Trusts and Estate Practice Group, answered a reader's question on NJ.com about how much you can take from an inherited IRA. Click here to read the full article.
Shawna Brown Answers a NJ.com Readers Question on What Happens When Someone Who Owes Child Support Gets an Inheritance
October 3, 2018
What happens when someone who owes child support gets an inheritance? Shawna Brown, an Associate in the Firm's Elder Law Practice Group, answers a NJ.com reader's question on what happens when an ex-spouse has a judgment against them and receives an inheritance. Read what Shawna has to say here.
6th Annual Tax, Trusts & Estate Planning Forum, December 4th
September 27, 2018
Attention CPAs and CFPs: Join us on December 4th for our 6th Annual Tax, Trusts & Estate Planning Forum at Mayfair Farms. This breakfast program is not to be missed! Earn 1.5 CE credits (CPE and CFP) and hear from our panel of experts on timely developments in Estate and Federal taxation that effect your clients. RSVP by November 23rd to llynch@lawfirm.ms or by calling 973.243.7951.
Steven Holt Publishes Article for ROI-NJ on The IRS Tax Amnesty Programs
September 20, 2018
Steven Holt, Chair of Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Tax, Trusts & Estates Practices recently authored an article for ROI-NJ on the IRS Tax Amnesty Programs for those with undisclosed holdings overseas and issues a warning that the IRS increasingly wants to know about your money overseas. Read what Holt cautions here.
Steven Holt Authored an Article for NJCPA on the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Incentive Program
August 27, 2018
Steven Holt, Chair of Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Tax, Trusts & Estates Practices and Alan Glazner, Of Counsel to the Firm's Tax Practice, authored an article for NJCPA on the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Incentive Program which is ending September 28th. We encourage tax professionals, accountants and other advisors who advise clients on tax matters to read this!
Tax, Trusts & Estates Chair Steve Holt Talks About Brand Value and Business Succession Marketing
August 13, 2018
Ever wonder the value of a strong brand in Business Succession Marketing and Planning? Check out Leon Grassi's latest DSM blog featuring a Q&A with Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Tax, Trusts & Estate's Chair Steven Holt. This is a must read for business owners!
Steven Holt Featured in a Q&A for Leon Grassi's DSM Blog on The Value of a Strong Brand in Business Succession Marketing and Planning
August 10, 2018
Ever wonder the value of a strong brand in Business Succession Marketing and Planning? Check out Leon Grassi's latest DSM blog featuring a Q&A with Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Tax, Trusts & Estate's Chair Steven Holt. This is a must read for business owners!
Steven Holt Answers NJ.com Question on a Deceased Parent's Unpaid Taxes
July 24, 2018
Steven Holt, Chair of Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Trusts and Estates Practice Group, answered a reader's question on NJ.com about unpaid taxes on a deceased parent's behalf and the statute of limitations that may apply.
Latest Nj.com article on Things to Think About Now for 2018 Tax Returns Featuring MS Attorneys Holt, Strober and Fox
May 18, 2018
Check out the latest NJ.com article highlighting many of the changes brought on by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and what you need to start thinking about now for your 2018 return! Our own Steven Holt (Chair, Tax, Trusts & Estates), Lynne Strober (Co-Chair Family Law) and Lisa Fox (Member, Tax, Trusts & Estates) give expert analysis on these changes and tips to consider. It is important to plan throughout the year so you aren't blindsided in April when tax time rolls around again.
Steven Holt Has Been Appointed to the Board of the Estate Planning Council of Northern NJ
April 30, 2018
Steven Holt Chair of the Firm's Tax, Trusts & Estates Practice Group has been appointed to the board of the Estate Planning Council of Northern, NJ. Congratulations Steven on this honor! For more about the ECPCNNJ visit www.epcnnj.org.
Join Us for Our 5th Annual Tax, Trusts and Estate Planning Forum on December 5, 2017
November 3, 2017
Join Us for Our 5th Annual Tax, Trusts and Estate Planning Forum on Tuesday, December 5th from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at Mayfair Farms in West Orange, NJ! Earn up to 1.5 CE credits and hear from our panel of experts regarding guardianships, special needs trusts, irrevocable trusts, latest tax law changes and more! To RSVP, email llynch@lawfirm.ms or call 973.243.7951. Seating is limited so RSVP today!
Steven Holt Answers Nj.com Biz Brain Question on Property Tax and Mortgage Deductions
August 10, 2017
Steve Holt, Chair of the Firm's Tax and Trusts & Estates Practice Groups recently responded to a NJ.Com Biz Brain readers question on property tax and mortgage deductions! Read what Steve had to say.
Steven Holt Answers nj.com Biz Brain Question on How the Federal Estate Tax is Calculated
July 13, 2017
Steven Holt, Chair of Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Tax and Trusts and Estates departments, answered a nj.com readers "Biz Brain" question on how the federal estate tax is calculated.
Richard Miller answers NJ.Com "Biz Brain" question on Lowering an Estates Value Before Death
June 23, 2017
Richard Miller, Chair of the Firm's Elder Law Department, was featured in today's Nj.com "Biz Brain" section answering a readers question on lowering an estate's value before death. To read the full question and Richard's answer, click here.
Steven Holt authors article for New Jersey Business Magazine on Irrevocable Trusts
June 22, 2017
Steven Holt, Chair of Mandelbaum Barrett PC's Tax Law Department, was recently featured in the May 2017 New Jersey Business Magazine with an article on Irrevocable Trusts.
Member Martin D. Hauptman to Speak at the 2nd Annual Estate Planning Summer Institute
June 18, 2016
Member Martin D. Hauptman is one of the featured speakers at the 2nd Annual Estate Planning Summer Institute on July 21st & 22nd at the NJ Law Center. Part of the objective for attorneys participating in the institute is to refresh areas that can expand
The High Cost of Delay: Ultra-High-Net-Worth Estate Planning & Asset Protection
August 18, 2025
The Looming Estate Tax Challenge for Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals For ultra-high-net-worth estate planning, the stakes for estate and asset protection have never been higher—or more urgent. For ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) whose estates far exceed the 2025 federal lifetime exemption of $13.99 million per person, the risks are clear. Although the current federal exemption will not sunset […]
What You Need to Know About the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)
July 17, 2025
OBBBA extends many provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act while significantly reshaping government spending priorities. Below is a breakdown of key elements that may impact individuals, families, and business owners from a tax and estate planning perspective. 🔹 Key Tax Provisions Impacting Individuals and Businesses 🟢 New and Expanded Deductions Included in tax cut cost […]
Legacy Lesson: Will or Trust? Estate Planning for Single Parents
June 18, 2025
In this episode of Legacy Lessons, Shawn R. McClelland, Partner in our Tax, Trusts, and Estates Practice Group, walks us through one of the most common estate planning questions families face: Should I create a will, or do I need a trust?
New Jersey Announces Mediation for Tax Disputes
June 12, 2025
Martin D. Hauptman, Partner in the Tax, Trusts, and Estates Practice Groups at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, highlights a new development from the New Jersey Division of Taxation: the launch of a pilot mediation program beginning October 1, 2025. As announced in Technical Bulletin No. TB-115 (April 15, 2025), the initiative is intended to reduce the number of tax protests that reach the Conferences and Appeals Branch (CAB) and the New Jersey Tax Court, offering taxpayers a more efficient and collaborative path to resolution. By addressing disputes earlier in the process, the Division hopes to enhance resolution timelines, lower costs, and ease the burden on the tax appeals infrastructure.
Legacy Lesson: Estate and Gift Tax Returns
June 2, 2025
Meet the Johnsons, a group of siblings who recently inherited a multi-million-dollar estate after the passing of their parents. The estate includes investment properties, stocks, and other high-value assets—leaving them not only with deep emotions to process, but also a host of complex tax questions.
Like many families facing a significant inheritance, the Johnsons are overwhelmed. They’ve heard about estate and gift tax returns, possible deductions, and filing requirements—but aren’t sure where to start or what applies to them.
The High Cost of Delay: Why Ultra-High-Net-Worth Families Must Act Now on Estate and Asset Protection
May 20, 2025
For ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) whose estates far exceed the 2025 federal lifetime exemption of $13.99 million per person, the stakes for estate and asset protection planning have never been higher-or more urgent. With the current exemption set to plummet at the end of 2025, and a flat 40% federal estate tax rate looming over every […]
Don’t Ignore Planning for the New York Estate Tax
April 22, 2025
The Upcoming Federal Estate Tax Sunset: What You Need to Know Many high-net-worth clients are busy planning for the possibility of a Federal estate tax exclusion sunset scheduled to occur on January 1, 2026. This will occur automatically unless Congress is able to pass major budget legislation to avert a per person reduction in the […]
The $5 Million Hush Money Payment in White Lotus Season 3
April 11, 2025
The explosive finale of White Lotus Season 3 left fans with more than just plot twists—it raised fascinating legal and tax questions. Chief among them: what are the implications of Greg’s $5 million wire transfer to Belinda, intended to ensure her silence regarding his late wife’s mysterious death? Though fictional, the scenario invites real-world analysis […]
New Jersey Updates Guidance for Military Families: Key Tax Considerations for Veterans and Their Spouses
March 14, 2025
The New Jersey Division of Taxation has updated its guidance for military families, effective January 1, 2025. These updates, outlined in Technical Bulletin No. GIT-7, provide clarity on tax issues affecting veterans and their families, including the veteran’s exemption, the wounded warrior’s caregivers credit, combat pay, and tax exemptions for military spouses. Martin D. Hauptman, Partner in our Tax, Trusts, and Estates practice groups, explains how these updates impact military families and their tax filings.
Navigating Family Disputes: Wills, Trusts, and Finding the Right Solution
February 3, 2025
When it comes to estate planning, family dynamics can complicate the process. Steven Holt, Chair of Tax, & Trusts and Estates at Mandelbaum Barrett, addressed two crucial issues families often face in his recent contributions to NJ Money Help. These articles provide valuable insights for those navigating the challenges of wills, trusts, and family disputes.
LEGACY LESSON: Understanding Estate Planning
July 15, 2024
In this episode of LEGACY LESSON, Jason Marx explains the critical differences between wills and trusts through the story of Margaret, a widow ensuring her estate is distributed to her children and charity.
Maximizing Real Estate Investments: Key Estate Planning Strategies
May 31, 2024
Sarah and Raj, a mid-30s couple, are guided by tax, trust, and estates attorney Jason Marx in exploring estate planning strategies for their growing real estate investments. Marx’s comprehensive approach underscores the importance of foresight and strategic planning in maximizing the potential of real estate investments while safeguarding against future uncertainties.
LEGACY LESSON: Could Divorce Be a Financial Lifeline in Chronic Illness?
May 13, 2024
In the inaugural episode of LEGACY LESSON, we delve into a topic rarely discussed openly: the use of divorce as a strategic financial tool in the face of chronic illness. Attorney Shawn McClelland navigates the complexities of this approach, considering both the legal and ethical implications. The episode unpacks how couples like Alice and Bob might consider legally separating to protect their assets from overwhelming medical expenses.
Estate Planning Explained by Jason Marx: Phases and Components
March 25, 2024
Jason Marx breaks down the critical phases and components of estate planning. Whether you’re starting your estate plan or looking to update an existing one, this video provides valuable insights into the essential documents and decisions that form the backbone of a comprehensive estate plan.
Essential Surrogate Decision Making Documents
March 6, 2024
Jason E. Marx, partner at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, emphasizes the critical role of surrogate decision-making documents, such as powers of attorney, living wills, and advanced healthcare directives. These documents ensure someone trusted can make decisions on your behalf during incapacity. Without these preparations, families face the complex process of obtaining guardianship, which can be lengthy and costly.
Understanding the 2024 IRS Updates on Estate and Gift Tax Exemptions
January 10, 2024
In 2024, significant changes to the IRS regulations regarding estate and gift tax exemptions are set to take effect. These updates, critical for individuals and couples engaged in estate planning, herald a substantial shift in the financial planning landscape. Jason Marx, partner in the Tax Trust and Estates Practice Group at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, provides insights into these changes and their implications.
2024 Updates to the Lifetime Exemption to the Federal Gift and Estate Tax
November 27, 2023
The IRS has announced some important updates to the federal gift and estate tax exemptions for the year 2024. These updates have significant implications for individuals and couples who are considering their estate planning strategies. Jason Marx breaks down the key details of these updates and discuss why it’s important to take action sooner rather than later.
Video: The Wildenstein Case, Tax, Trusts & Estates.
October 5, 2023
Join us as we explore Silvia Wildenstein’s quest to rectify her inheritance. With insights from Chris Zona, white-collar crime and criminal defense attorney, and Shawn McClelland tax, trusts, and estates attorney. Their perspectives shine a light in this case’s financial investigations, estate planning, and the shadows of the art world.
Legal Insights on Claiming a Lottery Jackpot
August 10, 2023
Partner in the Commercial Litigation & White Collar and Criminal Defense Group, Chris Zona, and Partner in the Tax, Trusts & Estates Practice Gorup, Shawn McClelland, discuss the steps you should take if you come into a life-changing amount of money, not unlike the recent Mega Millions winner in Florida this month.
The Crucial Role of Domicile for Retirees: Insights from a Trusts and Estates Attorney
July 21, 2023
When retirees consider relocating to a new state to enjoy their retirement, they often overlook the significance of establishing domicile in their chosen location. As a trusts and estates attorney, I have witnessed the legal and financial implications that arise when retirees fail to properly establish their domicile. In this blog, we will explore the […]
5 Rights That Trust Beneficiaries Have
June 17, 2022
As a trust beneficiary, you may feel that you are at the mercy of the trustee, but depending on the type of trust, beneficiaries may have rights to ensure the trust is properly managed. A trust is a legal arrangement through which one person, called a “settlor” or “grantor,” gives assets to another person (or […]
Tax Alert: NJ Retirement Guide
May 6, 2022
The New Jersey Division of Taxation has prepared a tax guide for retirees in New Jersey discussing the taxability of various sources of retirement income including pensions, IRAs and annuities. Some other important topics included are the pension exclusion, life insurance policies, the tax consequences related to qualified domestic relations order saving plans and the […]
The Difference Between Elder Law and Estate Planning
January 27, 2022
Elder law and estate planning serve two different — but equally vital — functions. The main difference is that elder law is focused on preserving your assets during your lifetime, while estate planning concentrates on what happens to your assets after you die.
How to Use Intrafamily Loans as Part of Your Estate Plan
October 18, 2021
When interest rates are low, intrafamily loans can be a good way to assist a relative (typically a child) with purchasing a house or a family business, and in certain circumstances they can be used to gift money to the next generation.
Should a Special Needs Trust Buy a Home for a Beneficiary?
February 1, 2021
February 1, 2021 By Richard I. Miller For some people with disabilities, homeownership may present a uniquely empowering opportunity. But for many others, purchasing a home through a special needs trust may be in the beneficiary’s best interests. Homeownership comes with many pitfalls and responsibilities. Buying a home through a special needs trust, rather than […]
Tax and Estate Planning Alert
March 24, 2020
March 24, 2020 By Martin D. Hauptman and Steven A. Holt We want all of you, our valued clients and friends, to know that the Firm is "open for business" and that we are available to handle your estate planning needs on an emergent basis, including wills and living will. Accessing Qualified Retirement Fund Balances […]
Small Estate Threshold Raised in New York
January 22, 2020
Probate and administration proceedings in New York State can be time-consuming and costly, but New York law allows for a simplified proceeding called voluntary administration for small estates with a value below a certain threshold. Recently, the threshold was expanded from estates valued at less than $30,000 to include all estates under $50,000. Voluntary administration […]
