Trusts & Estates Law Section

Event Overview

Wednesday, January 20, 2027

8:30 AM – 12:00 PM— Trusts and Estates Law Section MCLE Program (Grand Ballroom East, 3rd Floor)

12:00 PM – 2:15 PM— Trusts and Estates Law Section Reception & Luncheon (Grand Ballroom East, 3rd Floor)

From Clauses to Controversies: Practical Guidance from the Drafting Table, Courtroom, and Surrogate’s Bench

This program brings together distinguished trusts and estates practitioners and members of the Surrogate’s Court judiciary to examine the current significant issues influencing estate planning, fiduciary administration, and litigation in New York. Through a tax-focused discussion of sophisticated drafting strategies, an analysis of fiduciary suspension, removal and surcharge proceedings, and a focused discussion with the Surrogates, attendees will gain practical guidance on tax-sensitive drafting to preserve intended outcomes, identifying and addressing practical and legal considerations of fiduciary misconduct, and practical insights from the bench.

Key Highlights & Objectives:

1. Identify tax-sensitive drafting techniques and potential pitfalls
2. Evaluate fiduciary misconduct

Trusts & Estates Law Section Chair:

Tara Anne Pleat

Trusts & Estates Law Section Program Chair:

Michael Zahler
Emma Pletenycky