As the Private Client leader on the firm’s Fiduciary Disputes Team, Shannon Barks has a diverse practice that encompasses a wide range of estate planning, tax planning, and litigation services. She regularly assists clients with planning for wealth preservation, crafting comprehensive estate planning documents that align with her clients' long-term goals. Her expertise includes the implementation of sophisticated tax reduction strategies, tailored to minimize tax liabilities while preserving family wealth.

Shannon is experienced in the administration of complex estates and trusts, guiding fiduciaries and beneficiaries through the intricate processes involved. She is has been called upon as an expert witness in trust and estate matters, bringing her deep knowledge to bear in contentious situations.

In addition to her estate planning work, Shannon has significant experience in charitable planning. She assists clients in the creation and establishment of tax-exempt organizations and private foundations, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while maximizing philanthropic impact. Shannon also provides ongoing counsel to tax-exempt organizations on a range of operational and compliance issues.

Her practice extends to business succession planning, where she advises owners of closely held businesses on tax-efficient strategies for transferring ownership and preserving business continuity. She also works on premarital and postmarital agreement planning, helping clients navigate the legal implications of marriage on their estates.

Shannon is well-versed in special needs trust planning, ensuring that the needs of beneficiaries with disabilities are met without compromising their eligibility for government benefits. She also represents clients in trust and estate litigation, where her blend of technical knowledge and practical experience is invaluable. Furthermore, Shannon advises on estate-related income tax planning, helping clients navigate the complex intersection of estate and income tax laws.