Private Wealth Law

David Blickenstaff's expertise is in trust and estate litigation. He often represents trustees in sizeable disputes and is adept at handling claims of undue influence and breach of fiduciary duty.

"David is truly a pleasure to work with in every respect. He demonstrates unsurpassed expertise and excellent judgement and gives the soundest advice on every matter he works on."

"I have worked with Dave Blickenstaff for years and he has provided expert guidance during every stage of a complicated matter."

"Whenever I need outside counsel for trust and estate matters, Dave is my top choice. He has a calm, reasoned demeanour and always brings issues for discussion instead of making a decision without me."

Susan Bart focuses her practice on estate, gift tax and charitable planning, trust and estate administration, and fiduciary counsel.

"Susan's brain comprehends huge, complex facts and issues, pursues the answers to questions I haven't considered, and proposes simple, understandable solutions. She excels in cutting-edge situations."

"Susan somehow thinks of every issue in advance and follows up with timely updates and ongoing client communications. I have full confidence in her technical skill and ability to handle anything."

Thomas Abendroth is highlighted for his expertise in estates and for his contribution to the growth of the industry.

"Tom has provided good advice and has been instrumental in major estate planning over the years. He is able to take complex estate planning law and explain in layman's language."

"He is at the top of his game. Tom is the gold standard."

"He is great technically and commercially, and has a great bedside manner."

Christine Quigley provides counsel to wealthy clients on wealth transfer planning, estate and trust administration, and business succession planning.

"Christine is talented and performs sophisticated planning. She is gifted at explaining very technical concepts in a very understandable way."

Jessica Birnbaum's practice includes advising clients on estate planning, wealth transfer strategies, and trusts and estates disputes.

"Jessica is an excellent attorney who demonstrates meticulous attention to detail and gives thoughtful and solid advice."

"Her skills in developing settlements and pinning down details are top-notch. She is a pleasure to work with on a personal level, and she always meets deadlines and anticipates questions I might have."

"We rely on Jessica heavily. She is thoughtful in her approach to issues and efficient in providing her services."

Sarah Kerr Severson focuses her practice on estate and business succession planning matters.

"Sarah does a good job of not getting lost in the technical stuff. In communicating to families, she is jargon-free. She cuts through to what people are trying to accomplish, cutting through the noise."

"Sarah Kerr Severson is such a dynamo - her clients love her and she is really a rock star. I think she is great."