In Brief: Estate Planning 2026 Edition

Authored by Patricia A. Hoke, this handbook — the first in the new In Brief series from IICLE^® — delivers focused guidance on the core legal issues that attorneys encounter in estate planning and administration. In a practical format, it addresses key subjects such as strategies, concerns, and the principles that shape effective client counseling and document preparation. Topics covered include differences in representing different sizes of estates, assets and forms of ownership, wills and trusts, estate taxes, gifts, lifetime disability planning, client advocacy, and litigation. An invaluable appendix is also included with resources such as a Client Information Form, an Estate Planning Matter Checklist, a Simple Will, and answers to frequently asked estate planning questions. The handbook also includes an Information Gathering and Issue Spotting Flowchart and a Lifecycle of an Estate Planning Matter Flowchart. Whether used as a quick reference or a foundational resource, this handbook offers attorneys a concise and reliable tool for handling estate planning matters.

Patricia A. Hoke, Barrett, Twomey, Broom, Hughes & Hoke, LLP, Carbondale

PART I: Understanding The Landscape

   Chapter 1: Introduction to Estate Planning Law
   Chapter 2: Addressing the Issues

PART II: The Practice of Estate Planning Law

   Chapter 3: The Lifecycle of an Estate Planning Matter
   Chapter 4: Working with Clients; Intake and Risk Assessment
   Chapter 5: Planning Treatments for Different Sizes of Estates
   Chapter 6: Categories of Assets and Forms of Ownership
   Chapter 7: Wills
   Chapter 8: Estate Tax Considerations
   Chapter 9: Trusts
   Chapter 10: Gifts
   Chapter 11: Lifetime Disability Planning

PART III: Advocacy And Litigation

   Chapter 12: Resolving Disputes — Settlement and Mediation Options
   Chapter 13: Wading Into Litigation

PART IV: Conclusion

   Chapter 14: Estate Planning Resources
   Chapter 15: Appendix