Individual Representation Practice Areas
Business Services
A full listing of our Business Services can be seen on the Corporate Business Services page of this site.
Conservatorships/Elder Law
As a loved one ages, numerous sensitive questions may arise as you are caring for him or her. How can you get your loved one the right care without squandering family wealth on nursing home costs or losing it to the Medicaid system? How can you be sure your loved one is getting the right care? What will you do if there are problems?
SMRW's attorneys have extensive experience in assisting families as they encounter these and other questions and we help families respond to the legal, financial, physical and psychological challenges presented by long life, illness and disability. With an elder law practice that specializes in Life Care Planning, we help families protect assets and coordinate care. Our mission is to help you enhance the quality of life for an elderly loved one.
Criminal Defense
SMRW's attorneys provide a zealous defense to individuals accused of all types of misdemeanor and felony offenses, in both state and federal court. Gene Shiles is one of the most respected Federal Criminal Defense attorneys in this region. He heads the Federal Criminal Defense practice area and has years of experience representing clients accused of an array of crimes.
Estate Planning
Estate planning requires looking forward and planning ahead. SMRW attorneys work with clients to plan for life events including death and disability. The firm advises on issues such as the distribution of property in an orderly and sensible way; future leadership of family owned businesses; providing for loved ones who are young or have disabilities; protection of property from potential creditors and predators; minimization of tax liabilities; health and financial decision making authority in the event of disability; and expressing wishes concerning end-of-life medical decisions. Our attorneys have many tools at their disposal such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, living wills, prenuptial agreements and business related agreements. Most importantly, SMRW attorneys understand that each client is unique and one size does not fit all.
Estate and Trust Administration and Litigation
SMRW provides advice and guidance regarding the administration of trusts, estates and conservatorships. For the most part, the steps of administering a trust, estate or conservatorship happen outside the courtroom and without family discord. But still those steps can be confusing and overwhelming. The attorneys at SMRW explain the administration process to clients in a way that is understandable and practical, and guide clients through the process in an orderly, step-by-step way. When complications arise, as they sometimes do, SMRW attorneys help find solutions to achieve the correct and desired result but in the most straight forward and least burdensome way.
SMRW represents parties in probate court. The clients of SMRW—such as executors, administrators, trustees, conservators, guardians, beneficiaries and claimants—often require representation in probate court. The firm’s attorneys make sure the clients’ interests are protected, and that all proper procedures and requirements of law are followed. Often controversial matters in probate court can be resolved through careful negotiation and calculated diplomacy. But when a dispute cannot be resolved amicably, SMRW attorneys vigorously advocate their clients’ position. SMRW attorneys understand the law and procedure in probate court matters, and can handle complex estate, trust and conservatorship litigation.
Family Law
In many cases, divorce signifies more than just the end of a relationship. When a couple decides to end their marriage, concerns about child custody, property division, and child and spousal support can create hostility between spouses. Parties to a divorce can often benefit from the guidance and assistance of experienced lawyers who can help them navigate these and the many additional complex issues that become points of contention during a divorce. At SMRW, ourdivorce attorneys provide the exceptional representation individuals need to protect their legal rights and financial interests.
General Civil Litigation
To see a full listing of our General Civil Litigation Services click here or go to Litigation Practice Areas.
Real Estate
To see a full listing of our Real Estate Services click here or go to Corporate Practice Areas.
Tax representation
To see a full listing of our Tax Representation Services click here or go to Corporate Practice Areas.