Trusts & Probate
Guidance for executors and trustees through Connecticut probate court, trust administration and final distribution.
Overview
Being named executor or trustee is an honour and a legal duty at the same time. You may be grieving while facing deadlines for the probate court, the Department of Revenue Services and creditors. We handle the filings, keep beneficiaries informed and protect you from personal liability.
We represent fiduciaries and beneficiaries in all Connecticut probate districts, with most matters before the Hartford, West Hartford and New Haven regional courts. When disagreements arise over accountings, will interpretation or trustee conduct, our litigation team steps in without changing firms.
What's included
Scope is confirmed in your engagement letter. These are the pieces most clients need.
- Application for probate of will and appointment of fiduciary
- Inventory of assets and date-of-death valuations
- Connecticut estate tax return (CT-706/709) coordination
- Creditor notices and claim review
- Trust administration, accountings and beneficiary communications
- Final distribution, receipts and release of the fiduciary
How we work through it
- 1
First steps checklist
Within a week you receive a checklist of immediate tasks and deadlines specific to the estate.
- 2
Court filings
We prepare the probate application, notices and inventory for the correct probate district.
- 3
Administration
Assets are collected, debts and taxes paid, and beneficiaries updated at set intervals.
- 4
Distribution and closing
We prepare the final accounting and obtain releases so your role formally ends.
Why clients choose us for trusts & probate
Personal liability protection
Distributions happen in the right order, after taxes and valid claims are resolved.
Calm beneficiaries
Scheduled updates reduce the uncertainty that often turns into disputes.
Accurate tax filings
State and federal estate and income tax returns coordinated with your CPA.
One firm if conflict arises
Probate litigation is handled in-house by attorneys already familiar with the estate.
Fees and what affects them
Sample ranges for illustration. Your written estimate depends on the facts, number of parties and deadlines involved.
Attorneys who lead this work
Trusts & Probate questions
A straightforward estate typically closes in 6 to 12 months. Estates that owe Connecticut estate tax, include a business or face a dispute can take 18 months or more.
In Connecticut every estate files at least a tax return with the probate court, but assets held in a trust, jointly owned or passing by beneficiary designation do not go through full administration.
Yes. Connecticut allows reasonable fiduciary fees, subject to probate court review. Many family members waive them; we explain the tax effect of either choice.
Related practice areas
Discuss your trusts & probate matter
A 45-minute first meeting with a written summary and a clear fee estimate. Same-day callbacks, Monday to Friday.