In January 2012, the Boston Bar Association’s Trusts & Estates Section offered three educational programs on timely topics and developments in trusts and estates law. Below is a summary of the programs.
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UNWRITTEN RULES OF THE PROBATE COURT
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Probate Court insiders and seasoned practitioners Hon. Beverly Boorstein; Hon. Edward F. Donnelly Jr. and Jennifer A. Maggiacomo of Middlesex Probate and Family Court; Daniel J. Gibson of Suffolk Probate and Family Court; John Harney of Norfolk Probate and Family Court; and Eugene A. Nigro of Nigro, Pettepit & Lucas provided practical tips and guidance regarding Probate Court practice.
Sponsoring Sections: Administration of Justice Section, Family Law Section, and Trusts & Estates Section
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WHY ESTATE PLANNING IS STILL CRITICAL
Friday, January 20, 2012
Speakers Robert J. Morrill, Esq. and Brian Liberis of Gilmore, Rees & Carlson, P.C. focused on why it remains critical for people to undertake estate planning, even with the recent significant increases in the estate tax exemptions.
Sponsoring Committee: Estate Planning Committee
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GLBTQ SENIORS: LONG TERM CARE & ESTATE PLANNING
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
There remains unequal treatment of GLBTQ clients under law. A same-sex Massachusetts marriage is not recognized by the federal government for the purposes of estate taxes, social security or Medicaid. Planning for this community must address this dual tract status.
In addition, the life experience of older GLBTQ persons often makes their planning more challenging. They are more likely to have less family support and require documents that address specific social realities. Panelists Gail E. Horowitz, Esq., Ellen K. Wade, Esq. and Michelle LaPointe, Esq. of Wade Horowitz LaPointe, LLC, addressed the unique estate planning issues of aging GLBTQ clientele.
Sponsoring Committee: Elder Law and Disability Planning Committee
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For a schedule of upcoming programs, visit the Boston Bar Association’s online calendar.
