Fairfield Probate Lawyers

Estate planning is not just for millionaires. You may not think you have an estate, let alone any need for a plan, but if you have children, if you have things of value, if you own a home, you need an estate plan. An estate plan ensures that you decide who gets your hard earned assets, whatever their size or value-- not the government. Without an estate plan, your wealth, your estate will pass according to the state intestacy statute. Don't you want to decide to whom and when your assets should be distributed and not a probate court?...

Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.), Tulane University Law School, 2012; Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Finance, University of Connecticut, 2009. Admitted to the bar of Connecticut and New York. Attorney Etter joined forces with what was then known as Wiley Law, LLC in July of 2014. He narrowly tailors his focus to the areas he knows best: Estate, Business, Elder Law and Probate. He utilizes his experience and personalized care to assist his clients by ensuring that their transactions are completed smoothly...

Attorney Simon Lebo joined the firm in 1999 and is current chair of the Trusts and Estates Department. His principal areas of practice include Elder & Medicaid Law, Veteran's Benefits, Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Administration, Business Law, Taxation and Real Estate. Attorney Lebo regularly prepares wills, revocable trusts (also known as living trusts), irrevocable trusts, special needs trusts, healthcare and financial Powers of Attorneys and living wills for clients all over Connecticut. In addition, he has served as Court appointed Guardian Ad Litem, Legal Counsel, and Administrator in a number of Probate Courts. Attorney Lebo handles both...

Brendan is one of Connecticut’s top elder law attorneys, according to Super Lawyers Magazine. With his gentle manner, he’ll explain, in plain English, how you can protect your assets while receiving public benefits. He can help you get Medicaid benefits so you can preserve the money you’ve worked so hard for. And because of his success in many appeals of Medicaid cases, he can fight to get you benefits even if you’ve already been denied.

Brendan's focus on estate planning includes customized planning strategies that allow you to build wealth, save on taxes and protect the people who depend on...

Andrew Bilodeau is the managing partner at Bilodeau Capalbo, LLC and is admitted to practice in Rhode Island and Connecticut state and federal courts and Washington DC. In April 2021, Andrew earned his Masters in Business Administration from Northeastern University. A small sample of his experience includes work on behalf of individuals in residential and commercial real estate transactions, real estate zoning, real estate litigation (adverse possession, boundary line disputes), contractor disputes, insurance claim disputes, and negligent home inspections. Andrew also serves as corporate counsel for small & large businesses, real estate developers and contractors. His representation of clients includes national banks,...

Amanda’s passion has always focused on finding creative and personalized plans for her clients – no two estate plans are the same! Prior to practicing law, Amanda received her BA, cum laude, from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia, where she majored in Business Administration with a dual concentration in Accounting and Economics. Her business background is a tremendous asset in effectively communicating with her client’s team of financial advisors, accountants and other business professionals to make sure she is protecting their assets and truly understanding their financial goals. Amanda graduated from Western New England University School of...

Bernard T. Kennedy III achieved his Doctor of Juris Prudence (J.D.) in 2018 and was admitted to the Connecticut State Bar in 2019. Attorney Kennedy has extensive experience serving clients throughout Connecticut, including child advocacy, family law, and litigation in Hartford, business planning in Willimantic, and business and estate planning in Branford. Bernard is a skilled lawyer who handles intricate matters for individuals and small businesses. He is deeply committed to ensuring his clients feel appreciated, heard, and valued. — Savvy Small Business Planning — Attorney Kennedy recognizes the immense efforts small business owners require to establish and sustain a...

Damon Kirschbaum is the founder and managing attorney of Kirschbaum Law Group, LLC. For more than 19 years, he has been helping clients solve important and difficult legal problems.

Whether you are caring for an ill spouse and worried about losing your savings to pay for long term care, or you have decided to put your estate plan together to protect your family’s future, Lara will reduce the stress that often accompanies such financial and medical care challenges.

She will also draft your Will, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives and estate tax documents so you can relax knowing that your estate planning is done according to your specific wishes.

With more than 15 years of experience assisting people who are in need of estate planning, asset protection and Medicaid planning,...

In more than nineteen years of law practice based in New York and Connecticut, Bill Lalor has represented a diverse group of individual and commercial clients in an array of litigated and other matters involving business disputes, complex insurance coverage (including coverage-in-place agreements, structured settlements, and other coverage issues), employment disputes and negotiations, probate and estate matters, education, real estate, small business planning, personal injury, toxic torts and mass torts, regulatory matters, education law and other subject areas. Bill has litigated cases involving high-profile clients and adversaries in federal, state and specialized courts throughout the United States, including “CNA” insurers and...

Attorney Frank May concentrates his practice in the areas of Estate Planning, Elder Law, Medicaid Law, Probate/Trust Administration, Special Needs Planning for family members and individuals and litigation. He is also knowledgeable in tax law as it relates to these areas of practice. Attorney May typically advises and counsels clients and families in preparing estate plans, wills, trusts (revocable, living, irrevocable, testamentary, special needs), Medicaid applications, Powers of Attorney, healthcare agent appointments and similar documents necessary to accomplish the planning goals of his clients. He also represents individuals, fiduciaries (executors, administrators, trustees, conservators) and other entities in Probate Court, administers...

Joan Reed Wilson received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Lehigh University in 1992 and her law degree from Boston University School of Law, cum laude, in 1997, where she served as Editor-in-Chief of the American Journal of Law & Medicine. Attorney Wilson practices in the areas of Estate Planning, Elder Law, Medicaid Planning, Conservatorships, Probate and Trust Administration, and Real Estate Closings. Admitted to practice in the States of Connecticut and California, she is the Vice President of the CT Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), an active member of the Elder Law...

Attorney Jeff Rivard is enthusiastic about meeting new people and is interested to learn all he can about you and your situation. And we are confident that you once you get to know Jeff, that you will discover he is precisely the type of person you are looking to for guidance on your estate planning needs. Among his estate and long-term care planning skills, are helping you create plans for a solid, secure future that ultimately give you peace of mind. Jeff also heads up our Estate Administration Department and can help provide you the care and confidence (especially during this...

Balancing everyday responsibilities and expectations can be challenging when you are caring for a loved one living with a disability. Add estate or special needs planning for the future into the mix, and it may feel utterly overwhelming. Attorney Colleen Masse understands what you are feeling and can guide you through your planning process in a straightforward and compassionate manner. As Chair of our Special Needs Planning department and the Fiduciary Services department, Colleen can help you with a wide array of planning needs. She can partner with you on creating your comprehensive estate plan or laying out long-term care...

Attorney Paul J. Knierim practices in the areas of estate planning, probate, estate and trust administration, and resolution of probate disputes. Paul, a retired probate judge, brings unparalleled problem-solving strategies to bear on even the most complex of issues. He also serves as a mediator to help families to resolve disputes outside of court. Paul's experience includes more than two decades of service in the judiciary. He served for 12 years as judge of the Simsbury Probate Court. In 2008, the Chief Justice appointed Paul to lead the state’s Probate Courts as Probate Court Administrator, a role he served until 2019....

Carmine was admitted to the Connecticut Bar in 2005, the U.S. District Court, District of Connecticut in 2005, and the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in 2011.

Carmine is a member of the Connecticut Bar Association Elder Law Section and a member of the Connecticut Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (N.A.E.L.A). For the sixth year in a row, Carmine was selected as a New England Elder Law “Rising Star” by New England Super Lawyers magazine.

In 2011, Carmine was appointed to the Probate Court Rules Advisory Committee. The Committee drafted new rules and revised existing rules...

As part of the litigation team at Czepiga Daly Pope & Perri team, Nicole will work to protect you and advocate for you during a vulnerable time in your life. When you meet with Nicole, you’ll see that she takes the time to learn about you, your unique situation, and will answer your questions in plain English. Nicole’s goal is to make sure that you understand your options and feel comfortable with your choices. In addition to her keen attention to detail, Nicole’s clients have commented on her ability to bring them peace of mind during the litigation process. ...

Estate planning, Medicaid planning, and estate administration can be complicated – especially if the jargon and concepts are brand new to you. Having someone who can take these difficult concepts and translate them into something understandable is vital. Jeanne's strength lies in her ability to connect with her clients in a way that enables them to understand tricky legalese with empathy and ease. With her thorough communication skills, patience, and compassion, you will walk away understanding your paperwork and your options, as she is simply not a “just sign here” person. Also, a self-proclaimed “people-person”, Jeanne truly enjoys helping people, and has...

Attorney Miller was admitted to practice law in the State of Connecticut in 2007. He has worked as a Special Deputy Assistant State's Attorney for the Judicial District of Waterbury. As a prosecutor, he had the opportunity to handle and try criminal cases of all types, ranging from infractions to serious felonies. Attorney Miller has experience representing a diverse range of clientele, from individuals to multinational corporations. He is certified through the state of Connecticut as a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) for both children and adults and has been appointed on hundreds of cases.

Attorney Miller has...

Rose A. Blondin Shea graduated Summa Cum Laude from Emmanuel College in 2011 and Cum Laude from Suffolk University Law School in 2014. She was born and raised in Litchfield, Connecticut, graduating from Saint Paul Catholic High School in 2007.

Her primary areas of practice include Nonprofit law, Small business law, LLC Formation & Dissolution, Bankruptcy, Estate planning and Real estate law. Rose is also a member of the Connecticut and Litchfield County Bar Association. She is married to Torrington Optometrist Dr. Michael Shea of Blondin Shea Eye Care LLC.

When you’re involved in a dispute regarding a loved one, you may feel like you are alone in the fight. You want to know you’ve got the right advocate in your corner. Meet Andrew. Your advocate. Andrew will work for you to pursue your goals and help solve problems. Andrew believes the keys to advocating for you are preparation, compassion, and empathy. He will immediately make you feel at ease with his caring and easy-going manner. And you can be assured that Andrew has your best interests at top of mind. Ultimately, Andrew’s goal is to pave the way for shared understanding...

When you meet with Lynda, you’ll immediately notice her calm demeanor and gentle approach. That’s because you are not just meeting with an attorney who is creating your Will or trust or completing your Medicaid application - you’re meeting with a compassionate person who wants to know your story and design a plan to meet your needs. Estate planning and planning for long-term care can be a complicated, and at times, a stressful puzzle, but Lynda has a way of guiding you through the process while helping you to confidently navigate through rough waters if you happen to be in them....

I have been practicing in Hartford county for twenty years and have a vast amount of experience in residential and commercial real estate, as well as real estate based litigation. I have conducted hundreds of closings and I take pride in the fact that my clients often refer their family and friends to me. If you are buying or selling a home, or if you are facing a challenging legal issue, I invite you to call me to discuss your matter with me personally. It is important to seek professional guidance early on...

I am often asked why I became a lawyer. I had a great teacher in high school who saw that I loved to debate (argue) in civics class, and how I would always take the side with the harder case. I have always been drawn to fighting for the person, or for the causes, that demand fairness and to be treated justly. That is why I love being a lawyer. For over 25 years, I have represented people and businesses in every court in Connecticut. Today, my practice is mainly focused in the courts of New Britain, Hartford, Waterbury and Torrington....

Attorney Breg was born in Fort Knox, Kentucky and grew up in Southbury. He currently resides in Watertown and practices out of the firm’s Southbury Office. Bill Breg practices in the areas of estate planning and probate administration with experience in the local probate courts. As a professional member of PLAN of Connecticut, Attorney Breg counsels individuals with special needs and advises them about special needs trusts. Attorney Breg also practices in the area of real estate.

Attorney Karpe has multi-jurisdictional and multi-faceted experience for effectively representing clients in estate planning, elder law, probate, personal injury, workers’ compensation, professional liability, family law and criminal defense cases. With regard to estate planning and elder law, Attorney Karpe furthered his education and knowledge by obtaining his Master of Laws degree (LL.M.). The LL.M. degree indicates that an attorney has acquired advanced, specialized legal training beyond law school. Attorney Karpe focused his Master of Laws degree specifically on estate planning and elder law. In 1985, Attorney Karpe began practicing law in Colorado representing clients in personal injury and workers’ compensation matters. To...

For more than thirty years, Attorney Joseph DePaola has been providing quality legal services and advice to businesses and individuals throughout the New Haven Area. Attorney DePaola will help you navigate the legal system and set you on the right path to resolving your legal issues. Attorney DePaola is a Master Mason as well as an experienced Trial Lawyer with varied adversarial involvement in all phases of Superior and Administrative Agencies. Joseph DePaola graduated from the University of New Haven with a Political Science B.A. in 1972. Joseph continued on to Samford University to attend Cumberland School of...

Attorney Marilyn Toland is a graduate of Fisk University and Yale Law School. The daughter of civil rights activists, Marilyn grew up in Tuskegee, Alabama where she witnessed how the law can be used to change people's lives. The firm's mission is to help clients hold on to the assets they have worked to acquire, care for the ones they love and create a meaningful legacy. Toland Law is celebrating our 15th anniversary. The firm represents clients throughout Connecticut.

Brian was born and raised in Waterbury and was educated at Saints Peter and Paul Grammar School and Holy Cross High School. Brian graduated magnum cum laude from Saint Peter’s College in Jersey City, New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1994, and was also inducted into the prestigious Psi Chi Honors Society. Thereafter, Brian attended and graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Law with honors in 1997.

Taylor has experience litigating cases at the Administrative Hearing; Probate Court; Superior Court; Appellate Court; District Court; and the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals level. She practices in the areas of trusts and estates litigation; elder financial exploitation; defending against nursing home collection actions against you as a power of attorney, conservator, or responsible party of a loved one; construction litigation; employment litigation; land use and zoning disputes; and personal injury/wrongful death.

Prior to joining the firm, Taylor worked for a civil defense litigation firm in Stamford focusing her practice on professional malpractice claims; dram shop and liquor law claims;...

Knowledge. Experience. Compassion. When you meet with Erin, you’ll quickly see that what she accomplishes for you is much more than simply drafting legal documents. Under Erin’s kind and gentle demeanor is an experienced attorney who will take great strides to understand your objectives. After all, your plan must be tailored to meet your specific circumstances, and your personal wishes. Who is the right person to make financial or healthcare decisions for you? Who should you choose to serve as trustee? How can you leave money to a beneficiary with creditor or other issues? Erin will take the time to guide...

I have been practicing law for almost 35 years (since 1988) and began my own practice in 1994. I received my B.A. degree from the University of Connecticut. I earned my law degree at Western New England University (WNEC). I actively support my community through involvement with the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce, the Branford Lions Club, the Branford Green Committee (Chairman), and the New Haven-Middlesex Association of Realtors. I am also actively involved in the New Haven County Bar Association where I engage in the Lawyer Referral Service (LRS). Finally,...

Hardworking attorney dedicated to my clients and achieving the best possible outcome. Proud to have served this great country of ours and its citizens in the USArmy. Father and husband to my family, understanding what my clients' needs are.

Personal Injury Litigation, Workers' Compensation, Residential Real Estate, Probate

Attorney Dave Bozzuto was born in Waterbury and currently resides in Middlebury. Attorney Bozzuto has been involved in local government, having served on the Waterbury Board of Alderman, Waterbury Zoning Commission and the Board of Public Works in the past. Prior to receiving his law degree, Attorney Bozzuto was a Teacher and Coach at Holy Cross High School in Waterbury. While practicing law, Attorney Bozzuto has served a member of the adjunct faculty at Teikyo Post University, now Post University.