Overview
Joseph advises clients on all matters pertaining to the intergenerational transfer of wealth, including estate planning, succession planning, tax planning, trust and estate administration, audits, examinations, controversy avoidance and litigation. He also guides clients on the formation, governance and operation of private trust companies and family offices. His clients are located throughout the United States and include high-net-worth individuals and families, private trust companies, family offices, family office executives and large banks.
Joseph has successfully argued before trial and appellate courts in multiple jurisdictions. Due to his unique background in tax, planning and litigation, clients turn to Joseph to advise them in complex disputes involving family members, spouses, employees and business partners. A significant part of his practice involves counseling family offices and private trust company executives on strategies and best practices for avoiding personal liability. Joseph is frequently able to favorably resolve disputes without litigation. If necessary, however, he vigorously defends his clients’ interests in the courtroom.
Joseph is a frequent contributor to the bar. In addition to publishing numerous articles and book chapters, he is the principal draftsman of the forthcoming Michigan Trust Company Act. He also assisted with drafting the Michigan Uniform Fiduciary Income and Principal Act and the Model Civil Jury Instructions Regarding Undue Influence, among other legislative matters.
Recognitions
- The Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America, Trusts and Estates, Chicago, 2021–2024
Community
- Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, Associate Member
- Probate and Estate Planning Section of the State Bar of Michigan
- Ad Hoc Committee to Revise Model Civil Jury Instructions Regarding Undue Influence, Member
- Awareness and Outreach Committee, Chairman
- Greater Lansing Estate Planning Council, President
- Arts Council of Greater Lansing, Treasurer
Credentials
Education
New York University School of Law, Master of Laws in Taxation
Michigan State University College of Law, JD, summa cum laude
Ferris State University, cum laude
Admissions
Illinois
Michigan
