INDIVIDUAL PROFILE
Brian G. Smith

Brian G. Smith

High Net Worth 2026

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Ranked in 1 practice area

About

Provided by Greenberg Traurig, LLP

High Net Worth

Practice Areas

Private Wealth Services

Family Office Services

Tax

Estate Planning/Trust & Estate Administration

Charitable Planning & Foundations

Trusts & Estates Litigation

Career

Brian G. Smith advises ultra-high-net-worth clients on estate and tax planning, trust administration, litigation, family law, and charitable giving. With deep insight into complex tax planning strategies, Brian advises his clients on dynasty trusts, grantor retained annuity trusts, qualified personal residence trusts, and life insurance trusts. Brian counsels clients with the goal of lessening the wealth transfer tax involved when transferring wealth to the next generation. He also creates traditional wills, revocable trusts, and limited liability companies in accordance with his clients’ estate plans.

In the realm of estate and trust administration, Brian’s guidance extends to fiduciaries and beneficiaries involved in administration. This includes audits of estate tax returns and gift tax returns. His clients value his deep understanding of estate planning and tax implications, as well as his familiarity with the preparation of estate tax returns.

Professional Memberships

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Soul Ryeders, 2023-Present; Member, Board of Directors, Soul Ryeders, 2020-Present

Member, New York State Bar Association; Member, Trusts and Estates Law Section; Co-Chair, New Members Committee, 2012-2014

Member, Association of the Bar of the City of New York

Personal

J.D., St. John's University School of Law, 2008; Articles Editor, St. John’s Law Review

B.A., Duke University, 2005

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Chambers High Net Worth

Private Wealth Law - New York

Band 4
Band 4

Individual Editorial

Brian Smith advises ultra high net worth individuals, family offices and beneficiaries on a broad range of estate planning matters.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Brian consistently delivers advice that is not only legally sound but also commercially strategic and tailored to our business objectives. His responsiveness, ability to simplify complex issues and proactive approach to problem-solving make him an invaluable partner. Brian’s commitment to client success and his collaborative style truly set him apart.

    Private Wealth LawChambers High Net Worth
  • Working with Brian has been excellent. He has a deep level of technical knowledge that allows us to provide well-rounded service to our mutual client.

    Private Wealth LawChambers High Net Worth
  • Brian is responsive and proactive with his clients and their advisory teams. He brings clients ideas and makes them aware of potential concerns.

    Private Wealth LawChambers High Net Worth
  • What sets Brian Smith apart is the mix of deep expertise, strategic thinking and genuine care in how he works with us. He handles complex, multi-jurisdictional estate, tax and deal structures with ease, managing multiple high-stakes matters at once while staying clear, responsive and ahead of the curve.

    Private Wealth LawChambers High Net Worth

Ranked Individuals at Greenberg Traurig, LLP (11)

California

California: Southern

Florida

Illinois

New York

USA - Nationwide

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