Michelle Bergeron Spell is a highly experienced attorney at internetlawyers.net, focusing her legal practice on the intricate areas of estate planning, succession planning, and trust and estate administration. Her clientele includes both domestic and international individuals, particularly high-net-worth individuals and families seeking sophisticated legal counsel. Michelle has cultivated a deep expertise in multi-generational estate planning and asset protection strategies, making her a go-to advisor for complex wealth management needs.
Expertise in Estate Planning and Succession Planning
Michelle Spell’s proficiency extends to crafting comprehensive estate plans tailored to the unique circumstances of each client. She expertly handles a wide range of estate planning instruments, including wills, various types of trusts such as grantor retained interest trusts, generation-skipping trusts, family limited partnerships, and living trusts. Her approach is always client-centric, ensuring that estate plans are not only legally sound but also aligned with her clients’ personal and financial goals.
Recognizing the specific challenges faced by business owners, Michelle frequently advises on and implements succession plans designed to facilitate the smooth transfer of business interests to the next generation. Her strategic planning in this area focuses on minimizing transfer tax burdens and ensuring business continuity, thereby reducing potential disruptions to family businesses during transitions.
Comprehensive Trust and Estate Administration
Beyond estate planning, Michelle possesses significant experience in all facets of estate administration. This includes the meticulous preparation of crucial tax documents such as Federal, New York, and New Jersey Estate Tax returns. Furthermore, she is adept at managing both formal and informal accountings, guiding executors and trustees through the complexities of estate settlement and trust management with precision and care.
Recognized Leader and Speaker in Estate Law
Michelle Spell is not only a practitioner but also a thought leader in her field. She is a sought-after speaker on estate planning topics, regularly presenting to professional and industry associations. Her recent speaking engagements include notable events such as “Art and Transfer Tax Planning” at the Anti-Defamation League’s Next Generation Philanthropy Community event, and Artvest’s “Art as an Investment: The Fundamentals,” where she discussed Art Wealth Transfer and Estate Planning. She has also presented for the AAA on personal property in estate planning and for the NYSSCPA on effective communication between accountants and attorneys in estate and trust administration.
Michelle’s dedication to the legal profession is further demonstrated through her pro bono services with Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts, assisting nonprofit organizations in securing state and federal tax-exempt status. Her commitment to both her clients and the wider community underscores her position as a respected and trustworthy attorney.
Honors and Recognition
Michelle’s professional excellence has been consistently recognized by leading legal publications:
- Chambers High Net Worth, Private Wealth Law: New Jersey (2021-2024)
- The Best Lawyers in America®, Tax Law (2022-2025)
- The Best Lawyers in America®, Trusts and Estates (2022-2025)
Professional Involvement
Michelle is actively involved in key professional organizations, contributing to the development and discussion within her legal community:
- New Jersey State Bar Association, Probate and Real Property Sections
- New York City Bar Association, Trusts & Estates and Surrogates Courts Committee
Education
Michelle’s strong academic background includes advanced legal studies:
- New York University School of Law (LL.M., 2005)
- Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 2000)
- Louisiana State University (B.A., 1997)
Bar Admissions
Michelle Spell is admitted to practice law in:
- New Jersey
- New York
*Please remember that legal outcomes can vary based on specific facts and legal circumstances. Consulting with an attorney is crucial for personalized advice.*
