In February 2026, trust and estate attorneys (also known as estate planning lawyers) help individuals and families protect assets, minimize taxes, plan for incapacity, avoid probate, create wills/trusts, handle special needs planning, and navigate estate administration or disputes. These professionals often specialize in high-net-worth clients, tax-efficient strategies, charitable giving, business succession, and fiduciary litigation.
The best trust and estate attorneys and firms in the USA are recognized through peer-reviewed directories like Best Lawyers in America® (2026 edition), U.S. News – Best Law Firms® (2026 rankings), and Chambers High Net Worth guides. Rankings consider expertise, client feedback, complexity of matters handled, and national/regional tiers. Many top firms earn “Tier 1” or “Law Firm of the Year” honors in Trusts & Estates.
This guide highlights standout firms and attorneys based on 2026 recognitions. Focus on fiduciary duty, experience with complex estates, and integration with tax/wealth planning. Fees vary (hourly $400–$1,000+ or flat for basic plans); always consult directly for personalized advice and check state bar for credentials.
Why Hire a Top Trust and Estate Attorney?
- Asset protection — Revocable/irrevocable trusts, asset protection trusts.
- Tax minimization — Estate/gift tax planning, generation-skipping transfers, charitable strategies.
- Probate avoidance — Living trusts, beneficiary designations.
- Family dynamics — Blended families, special needs, business succession.
- Litigation — Will contests, trust disputes, fiduciary breach claims.
- Incapacity planning — Powers of attorney, healthcare directives.
Note: Estate laws vary by state; choose attorneys licensed in your jurisdiction or with multi-state expertise. For high-net-worth ($5M+), seek ACTEC (American College of Trust and Estate Counsel) Fellows.
Key Factors to Consider
- Rankings — National Tier 1 (Best Law Firms) or “Lawyer of the Year” (Best Lawyers).
- Specialties — Planning, administration, litigation, tax integration.
- Client Focus — High-net-worth, families, business owners.
- Location — Many national firms; regional leaders in NY, CA, FL, DC.
- Approach — Proactive planning vs. reactive (probate/litigation).
Best Trust and Estate Law Firms in USA 2026
Top performers from Best Law Firms® 2026 and related recognitions:
1. Day Pitney LLP — Law Firm of the Year for Trusts & Estates (2026 Best Law Firms®)
Named “Law Firm of the Year” for the third time. National Tier 1 rankings, strong in complex planning and administration.
Pros: Elite recognition, multi-state presence.
Best for: High-net-worth clients, sophisticated trusts.
2. Kozusko Harris Duncan — National Tier 1 Trusts & Estates
Consistently Tier 1 nationally and regionally (NYC, Chicago). Focus on ultra-high-net-worth, international estates.
Pros: Boutique expertise, top peer reviews.
Best for: Complex, multi-jurisdictional planning.
3. Holland & Knight LLP — Top National Private Wealth Practice
Multiple Tier 1 rankings; more ACTEC Fellows than most firms. Strong in trusts/estates litigation and planning.
Pros: Nationwide reach, fiduciary litigation strength.
Best for: Disputes, large estates.
4. Farrell Fritz, P.C. — National Tier 1 Trusts & Estates
High rankings in NY/Long Island; excels in litigation and planning.
Pros: Trial-ready for contested matters.
Best for: Trust/estate disputes.
5. Akerman LLP — National Tier 1 Trusts & Estates
Broad national awards; strong Florida/Southeast presence.
Pros: Tax-integrated planning.
Best for: Business succession, high-net-worth.
6. Nelson & Nelson, P.A. — Miami Metropolitan Tier 1 Trusts & Estates
Top in FL; Chambers High Net Worth recognition.
Pros: Asset protection, special needs.
Best for: Florida residents, international clients.
7. Greenberg Traurig — Band 1/2 in Chambers Private Wealth (Nationwide)
Strong across USA; advises prominent wealthy families.
Pros: Multi-disciplinary (tax, corporate).
Best for: Ultra-high-net-worth.
Other notables: Loeb & Loeb, Katten Muchin Rosenman, ArentFox Schiff (strong in Chambers); regional leaders like Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano (NY elder law/special needs).
Notable Individual Attorneys (2026 Best Lawyers Recognitions)
- Many “Lawyer of the Year” or top-listed in Trusts & Estates (e.g., in specific cities).
- Examples from recognitions: Brandon Hamm (Omaha), David Dingwell (Litigation – Trusts & Estates), Rashad Wareh (NYC).
- Look for ACTEC Fellows or multi-year Best Lawyers honorees.
Comparison Table: Top Trust and Estate Firms 2026
| Firm Name | Key Ranking (2026) | Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day Pitney LLP | Law Firm of the Year Trusts & Estates | National Tier 1, complex planning | High-net-worth, sophisticated |
| Kozusko Harris Duncan | National Tier 1 Trusts & Estates | Ultra-HNW, international | Multi-jurisdictional estates |
| Holland & Knight | Top Private Wealth (Chambers) | Litigation + planning, ACTEC Fellows | Disputes, large estates |
| Farrell Fritz | National Tier 1 Trusts & Estates | Litigation strength | Contested matters |
| Akerman LLP | National Tier 1 | Tax/estate integration | Business/family succession |
| Nelson & Nelson | Miami Tier 1 Trusts & Estates | Asset protection, special needs | Florida/high-net-worth |
| Greenberg Traurig | Band 1/2 Chambers Private Wealth | Nationwide, wealthy families | Ultra-high-net-worth |
Tips to Find and Work with a Trust and Estate Attorney
- Use Directories — BestLawyers.com, BestLawFirms.com, Chambers.com, ACTEC.org.
- Seek Referrals — From CPAs, financial advisors, or family attorneys.
- Check Credentials — State bar, ACTEC membership, peer reviews.
- Initial Consultation — Discuss goals, fees, timeline (many offer free/ low-cost intros).
- Review Experience — Ask about similar cases (e.g., irrevocable trusts, probate avoidance).
- Coordinate Professionals — Work with your CPA/financial planner for holistic plans.
- Update Regularly — Review every 3–5 years or after life events.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Delaying planning (tax laws change; health issues arise).
- Using generic templates/online services for complex needs.
- Ignoring state-specific rules (community property vs. common law states).
- Not addressing blended families/special needs.
- Skipping incapacity documents.
Alternatives
- DIY Tools — For simple wills (LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer)—not recommended for assets >$100k.
- Financial Advisors with Planning — Some CFP® professionals offer basic coordination.
- Elder Law Attorneys — For Medicaid/special needs focus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does a trust and estate attorney cost?
Basic will/trust package: $1,500–$5,000; complex/high-net-worth: $10,000+; hourly $400–$1,000.
When do I need one?
If assets exceed state probate thresholds (~$50k–$166k), have minor children, blended family, business, or tax concerns.
Difference between estate planning and probate attorney?
Planning: Preventive (wills/trusts). Probate: Administration/litigation after death.
Best for high-net-worth?
Firms like Day Pitney, Kozusko Harris Duncan, or Holland & Knight.
How to choose?
Prioritize peer-ranked (Best Lawyers/Best Firms), experience in your state/needs, and comfort level.
Conclusion: Protect Your Legacy in 2026
The best trust and estate attorneys in the USA for 2026—led by Day Pitney (Law Firm of the Year), Kozusko Harris Duncan, and Holland & Knight—offer expert guidance for secure, tax-smart wealth transfer. Whether basic planning or complex multi-generational strategies, top-ranked professionals ensure your wishes are honored.
Schedule consultations with 2–3 firms today—many offer virtual options. Proactive planning provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
This guide is informational only—not legal advice. Rankings reflect 2026 sources (Best Lawyers, Best Law Firms, Chambers); verify current status and consult qualified attorneys.
