Announcements

Motion Practice: Demurrer, Anti-SLAPP, MSA/MSJ – Matthew McMurtrey Presents at 2026 LACBA Litigation Symposium

Partner Matthew McMurtrey is speaking on the panel “Motion Practice: Demurrer, Anti-SLAPP, MSA/MSJ” at the 2026 Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA) Litigation Symposium. The conference is being held April 25 from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm PT at the Indigo Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. Attendees will receive 6 hours general CLE credits.

Learn more and Register here.

Terrence Franklin Presents Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice to Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Partner Terrence Franklin is speaking to Drake University and William & Mary as part of their Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, a volunteer-supported program dedicated to all persons who seek opportunities for lifelong learning to enrich their lives in a collegial environment of sharing and fellowship.

Franklin had been a trust and estate litigator, handling disputes including will contests for a quarter century, when he discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his fourth great-grandfather that emancipated his fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren. This discovery led Franklin to define his mission, “To Bend the Arc of History Towards Justice” by sharing the story of his ancestors and other stories like them.

In this presentation, Franklin recounts the riveting story of his ancestor Lucy Sutton and her fight in the probate courts to uphold the last will and testament, and he also profiles several other black women, contemporaries of Lucy, who also had to struggle with probate courts for their rights, and who just may have helped Lucy and her family make it to freedom.

Ethical Issues When Lawyers Serve as Trustees – John Scheerer Serves as Panelist for ABA CLE Seminar

Lawyers increasingly serve as trustees of private trusts, charitable trusts, and court-created fiduciary structures, particularly for complex estates, special needs beneficiaries, and closely held business interests. Wearing the dual hats of attorney and fiduciary introduces unique ethical risks that are not fully addressed by conventional estate planning or fiduciary law training.

Join Partner John Scheerer and co-panelists for an American Bar Association CLE webinar examining the unique ethical risks that wearing dual hats of attorney and fiduciary introduces. The program “Ethical Issues When Lawyers Serve as Trustees” is being held February 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM EST.

Los Angeles Business Journal Selects Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys 2026

Partner Terrence Franklin has once again been named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys list for 2026. The list profiles standout minority attorneys who are considered to be particularly impactful in the legal industry while serving as trusted advisors in the Los Angeles region.

Franklin was recognized for handling some of the most significant and complex trusts and estates litigation throughout California, including the landmark Moeller v. Superior Court case. He was also lauded as a trailblazer for advancing DEI within the legal profession and beyond.

View the list here.

Best Law Firms Names Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP to 2026 List

Best Law Firms® has once again named Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, a Tier 1 firm for Trusts and Estates Litigation in Los Angeles. We are honored to be recognized with the highest designation given in the practice area.

Since 2010, Best Law Firms has served as a definitive law firm guide and trusted resource for those seeking authoritative legal insight. Through a rigorous, data-driven approach, Best Law Firms identifies firms known for quality, specialized knowledge and commitment to excellence.

To be eligible to participate in the Best Law Firms research process, a firm must have at least one attorney who has received a high enough peer review to be recognized in the current edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP’s Best Law Firms ranking is supported by five partners who are individually recognized as Best Lawyers in the field of Trusts and Estates Litigation.

Court Upholds Trust Amendment in Favor of SGFLMS Client After Trial

Partner Robert Sacks and Associate Antonieta Pimienta Lefebvre successfully represented the respondent in a trust dispute involving the Ernest and Midge Colton Family Revocable Trust.

Ernest and Midge Colton executed their revocable Trust in December 2015. After Midge died, Ernest amended the Trust, favoring his son Craig over Midge’s two children who filed suit after Ernest died, claiming that Ernest did not have the power to amend the Trust as he did.

Midge’s children claimed that a portion of the Trust was irrevocable upon Midge’s death, such that Ernest could not change part of the Trust as the Amendment stated. Craig opposed the Petition relying upon a specific provision early in the Trust document, which was in all capital letters and bold font, stating:

“IT IS THE INTENT OF THE PARTIES THAT THE SURVIVING SPOUSE WILL RECEIVE ANY AND ALL COMMUNITY AND/OR SEPARATE PROPERTY OF THE DECEASED SPOUSE THROUGH THE TRUST TO THEN USE AND DISTRIBUTE IF AND AS HE/SHE SEES FIT.”

The attorney who drafted the Trust and the Amendment testified that Midge and Ernest had requested that specific provision and that was their controlling intent for the Trust. The lawyer further testified that he does not generally handle estate planning and had used a form template for the Trust but had mistakenly not deleted references to an irrevocable by-pass trust. Finally, the lawyer confirmed that his clients fully understood that the survivor had full control over all Trust assets and could leave them to anyone.

After discovery and a two-day trial, the Court denied the Petition with prejudice and found in Craig’s favor on all issues. The Court relied upon the drafting lawyer’s testimony and contemporaneous notes, and upheld the amendment.

Benchmark Litigation Recognizes Meg Lodise and John Scheerer in 2026 Rankings of Leading U.S. Litigators

Benchmark Litigation named Partners Meg Lodise and John Scheerer as leading litigators in its 2026 U.S. Guide for their work in trusts and estates litigation. Honorees are selected based on extensive research, including interviews with litigators, dispute resolution specialists, and their clients, as well as analysis of the market’s most significant cases and developments.

Lodise was selected as a Litigation Star both in California and nationally. Litigation Stars are lawyers who are highly regarded by their peers and possess a strong case record and positive client feedback.

Scheerer was recognized as a Future Star in California. Futures Stars are lawyers who are “ones to watch” and are continuing to grow their reputations in the market.

Daily Journal Names Terrence Franklin and Bob Sacks to Top Estate & Wealth Management Lawyers 2025 List

Partners Terrence Franklin and Bob Sacks were selected to Daily Journal’s list of Top Estate & Wealth Management Lawyers in recognition of their expertise in trusts and estates litigation, and success representing high-net-worth individuals, charitable organizations, educational institutions, large and small businesses, and corporate and individual fiduciaries. The supplement honors California’s leading estate and wealth management lawyers who guide clients through complex financial transactions during challenging times.

When asked about recent cases, Sacks noted his work to successfully defend a multibillion-dollar claim against the Barron Hilton Trust—Barron Hilton was the son of Conrad Hilton, who founded Hilton Hotels Corporation. “The case involved claims dating back two to three decades, so reconstructing events so far back was challenging,” Sacks commented. “There were hundreds of boxes of documents to be reviewed, analyzed and possibly produced, which was also quite daunting.”

Franklin described his recent work representing the University of Oregon in several matters involving substantial gifts to the institution. He has also worked with UCLA, USC and UC Irvine in various leadership and advisory roles. “These cases and roles are significant because I feel like I am helping advance educational goals, which is very important to me,” Franklin said.

View Franklin’s profile here.

View Sacks’ profile here.

SGFLMS Partners Selected to Lawdragon 500 Leading Family Lawyers 2026 for Trusts & Estates Litigation

Lawdragon 500 has recognized all five Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP partners on its Family Lawyers 2026 list for Trusts & Estates Litigation.

This marks the second consecutive year that Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey and Bob Sacks have been honored, and the first recognition for John Scheerer.

Selection to a Lawdragon guide requires at least 10 years of practice and demonstrated excellence and leadership within the firm and the broader legal community.

View the full list here.

Terrence Franklin Chairs 51st Annual USC Gould Trust and Estate Conference

Partner Terrence Franklin is once again serving as Chair for the 51st Annual USC Gould Trust and Estate Conference, a role he has held since 2019. In a Q&A with USC Gould, Franklin shares more about his practice, goals for the conference and what makes this year’s program a can’t-miss event.

Register now to join on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, or attend virtually: gould.law/TEC

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your professional background?

A: I’ve been practicing in the area of trust and estate litigation since 1992 and co-founded the original core of my current firm in 2001, Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey and Scheerer.

Q: What is your primary goal as Chair of the Conference?

A: My primary goal as Chair is to present a conference on substantive, current trust and estate-related topics that is engaging and interesting, offering practical solutions and helpful takeaways.

Q: Why should someone attend the 51st Annual Trust and Estate Conference?

A: Anyone who wants to attend one of the most important trust and estate continuing education programs in the state, and who is looking for practical advice from the top experts, and an opportunity to network with everybody who is anybody in our practice area should join us for our annual conference.

Best Lawyers Names Five Partners to 2026 List; Three Associates Recognized as Ones to Watch

Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey, Bob Sacks and John Scheerer have once again been selected to Best Lawyers® 2026 for their work in trusts and estates litigation.

The partners have been recognized on the list of Best Lawyers for the following:

Franklin: Sixteen consecutive years; Litigation – Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2016
Lodise: Sixteen consecutive years; Litigation – Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2012
McMurtrey: Eleven consecutive years
Sacks: Sixteen consecutive years; Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2014 and 2018
Scheerer: Three consecutive years

Additionally, Associates Joshua LeVasseur, Michele Nielsen and Tonie Pimienta Lefebvre were named to the Ones to Watch list, which recognizes attorneys who are earlier in their careers for outstanding professional excellence in private practice in America.

Best Lawyers is one of the oldest and most respected peer-review publication company in the legal profession. The lists of outstanding lawyers are compiled by conducting exhaustive peer review surveys in which tens of thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. Lawyers are not permitted to pay any fee to be recognized by Best Lawyers.

Chambers and Partners Recognizes Firm with Band 1 Ranking and Five Individual Attorney Honors

For the eighth consecutive year, Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP has been named a leading law firm for High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes by Chambers and Partners. The firm received a Band 1 designation in California, the highest ranking by the legal guide.

Based on feedback from clients and other professionals in the industry, Chambers reported:

“Sacks Glazier has a wealth of experience in trust and estate litigation matters and is one of the go-to firms in Los Angeles. [The attorneys] really know how to work a case and fight for their clients in a smart and strategic way to achieve the best results possible. Everyone I have dealt with at the firm has been top-notch. They are excellent advocates who demonstrate superior knowledge in trust litigation.”

All five partners also received recognition as Notable Practitioners in the High Net Worth guide, with clients and colleagues commenting:

Robert Sacks: “Robert Sacks is a leader in the trusts and estates field in Los Angeles and has significant trial and litigation experience. [He] is an outstanding professional, and has a great feel as to the commercial impact of any case resolution.”

Terrence Franklin: “Terrence Franklin has been very responsive, sophisticated in his advice, and is also very personable. He’s especially thoughtful and sharp in sensitive situations. I really value Terry’s excellent advice and work product on difficult matters.”

Meg Lodise: “Meg is an exceptional attorney. [She] knows how to guide us through difficult situations in a way that avoids controversy, with successful results. Meg is very strategic, an expert in the intersection between estate and charitable matters, and she’s really delightful to work with.”

Matthew McMurtrey: “Matthew is very smart, practical and approachable. He worked our matter with persistency, thoughtfulness and knew when to pivot without leaving any stone unturned.”

John Scheerer: “John Scheerer has a good demeanour, even in hostile cases, and is an effective writer and advocate. I continue to be impressed with John’s responsiveness, and his knowledge of our case and how best to defend us.”

View the firm’s profile and complete rankings here.

Chambers and Partners is the leading independent professional legal research company delivering detailed rankings and insight into the world’s leading lawyers and law firms. Chambers ranks firms based on technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, diligence, commitment and other qualities most valued by clients.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer Successfully Defends Multibillion-Dollar Claim Against Barron Hilton Trust

Barron Hilton was the son of Conrad Hilton, who founded Hilton Hotels Corporation. Like Conrad, Barron also served as CEO of Hilton Hotels Corporation for many years and was committed to charitable work, pledging his multibilliondollar estate to the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, a charity dedicated to alleviating human suffering worldwide.

Shortly after Barron Hilton’s death in 2019, four of his eight adult children filed lawsuits seeking $3 billion in damages from Mr. Hilton’s Trust and the Foundation that would otherwise go to the Foundation. The petitions claimed that Barron took advantage of his wife, Marilyn Hilton’s, medical condition to force her into estate planning against her wishes which ultimately benefited Barron (and, through Barron, the Foundation) at their children’s expense. Mrs. Marilyn Hilton died in 2004, and Barron Hilton disclaimed his interest in her estate shortly thereafter at the request of his eight children so they could receive their substantial inheritances early.

The Trustee of Barron’s Trust, Pat Modugno, turned to Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer LLP, led by partners Bob Sacks and John Scheerer and associates Joshua LeVasseur, Michele Nielsen, and Arevik Stepanyan, to defend these existential lawsuits.

Three of those four children jointly filed claims against the Trust, while another sibling filed two similar lawsuits, one individually and another representing Marilyn’s estate. The latter two of the three lawsuits were dismissed early on, as the Firm successfully argued that all claims were barred after several successful rounds of demurrers and motions to strike. These rulings were upheld by the Court of Appeal twice. Recently, the California Supreme Court denied a petition for review, thus finalizing the victory for the Firm’s client on these matters.

After substantial discovery, in January 2025, the Trustee then prevailed on summary judgment just weeks before trial was set to begin on the last remaining lawsuit, ending a lengthy and hotly contested dispute concerning the multibilliondollar Trust.

Bob Sacks and Antonieta Pimienta Lefebvre Secure Complete Victory in Family Trust Dispute Including Elder Abuse Claims

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP represented the Respondent (Trustee and Beneficiary) in two lawsuits filed by his brother, the Petitioner, regarding a substantial Trust containing their mother’s remaining assets. Petitioner first contested the validity of the final Trust document their mother signed, which favored Respondent over Petitioner regarding remaining assets their mother owned (after the family had previously made substantial gifts to both sons). Petitioner claimed that Respondent had used undue influence or tricked their mother into signing the document at issue and committed elder abuse. Respondent denied Petitioner’s allegations and asserted that their mother had worked with her longtime estate planner who had meticulously documented and carried out her client’s wishes.

Petitioner later separately sued Respondent and the estate planning lawyer and her firm (who had worked with the mother for decades and had prepared trust documents, deeds, and other estate planning instruments for her). The civil lawsuit claimed elder abuse by all defendants regarding deeds the mother had signed transferring property interests to Respondent that he would otherwise receive upon her death, and was stayed pending trial in the Trust contest, which took place earlier this year.

Bob Sacks and Antonieta Pimienta Lefebvre represented Respondent in both lawsuits, and tried the Trust contest over several days in January and March, 2025. Following written closing arguments, in June the Court ruled in Respondent’s favor on all grounds and denied the Petition with prejudice. Based upon this ruling, the Court then dismissed the civil lawsuit with prejudice against all Defendants.

Meg Lodise Named to Los Angeles Business Journal Women of Influence: Attorneys List

For the fourth consecutive year, Partner Meg Lodise was selected to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women of Influence: Attorneys list in recognition of her exceptional legal skills and achievements in trusts and estates litigation as well as her contributions to the greater LA community.

In her nearly 40-year career, Lodise has established an impressive reputation for handling some of the most complex and high-dollar trusts and estates disputes throughout California. As one example, Lodise obtained a precedent-setting decision in O’Connor v. O’Connor (26 Cal.App.5th 871), defending an appeal brought to challenge the exercise of a power of appointment. In a published decision, the Court of Appeal affirmed the Probate Court’s orders, and in doing so, clarified California law on powers of appointment.

View the full Women of Influence: Attorneys list. (may require subscription)

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Announces Name Change to
Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP

Effective April 3, 2025, the Los Angeles-based trusts and estates litigation firm formerly known as Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP is now Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, recognizing the leadership and significant contributions of Managing Partner Matthew McMurtrey and Partner John Scheerer.

“Matt and John are not only exceptional litigators who have been instrumental to our firm’s growth, they are also respected industry leaders shaping the future of trusts and estates law,” commented founding partner Bob Sacks. “This name change reflects the tremendous impact they’ve made both within our firm and across the trusts and estates field.”

McMurtrey joined the firm in 2001 and became partner in 2012 and Managing Partner in 2014. His practice includes litigation at all levels of California’s judicial system, and he has handled appeals before several districts of the California Court of Appeal, resulting in multiple published appellate decisions. McMurtrey is a Fellow in the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) and has held numerous roles with other industry organizations, including as former Chair of the California Lawyer’s Association Trusts and Estates Section Executive Committee (TEXCOM) and Chair of the Los Angeles County Bar Trusts and Estates Law Section Executive Committee. He has been recognized among top awards and rankings, including Chambers and Partners High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes and Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers, Probate Litigation. McMurtrey obtained his J.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law.

Scheerer joined the firm in 2018 and was elevated to Partner in 2023. He has successfully handled a variety of cases before the Probate Department of the Superior Court as well as appeals in the California Court of Appeal resulting in multiple successful appellate decisions. Scheerer is the current Vice-Chair Professional Responsibility for the American Bar Association Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section (RPTE) and serves on the board for the Beverly Hills Estate Planning Council. He has been named to the list of Best Lawyers and Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars for his work in trusts and estates disputes. Scheerer obtained his J.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law.

With McMurtrey at the helm, Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP has continued its strategic growth, bringing on new attorneys and staff at the firm’s longtime downtown Los Angeles location. The firm’s success in complex, high-value trust and estate litigation throughout California has earned significant recognition, including Chambers and Partners High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes – Band 1, Best Law Firms and Daily Journal Top Boutiques.

Los Angeles Times Names Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise to Business of Law: Legal Visionaries 2025

For the fifth consecutive year, Partners Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise have been named to the Los Angeles Times Business of Law: Legal Visionaries 2025 list in recognition of their commitment to their practice, the firm and the community at large.

In addition to successfully representing clients in high-profile trusts and estates litigation, Franklin was acknowledged for being a leading advocate for diversity in the profession. Notably, he spearheaded the UCLA School of Law Postgraduate Fellowship for Racial Equity in Trust & Estate Law, securing nearly $200,000 in funding. His efforts have expanded access to estate planning resources for underserved communities.

Lodise was lauded for handling some of the most complex, high-value trust and estate disputes in California, including securing a precedent-setting decision in O’Connor v. O’Connor (26 Cal.App.5th 871) which shaped state law on powers of appointment. She was also recognized for her influential roles in industry organizations, including as a Fellow and President-Elect of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, and past president of the Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles.

View Franklin’s full profile here.

View Lodise’s full profile here.

Covering Your Assets: Tools for Safeguarding Trustee Decision Making – John Scheerer Presents at ABA RPTE 37th Annual CLE Conference

Partner John Scheerer is speaking on the panel, “Covering Your Assets: Tools for Safeguarding Trustee Decision Making,” at the American Bar Association Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law’s 37th Annual National CLE Conference.

This event brings together professionals from across the legal industry for a week of insightful presentations, hands-on learning opportunities and CLE credits. Leading experts will share their knowledge in real property, trust and estate law to equip professionals with practical tools for their practice.

The conference is being held April 30 – May 1, 2025, at the Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Learn more and register here: www.rptecleconference.com

Cultural Competence in Estate Planning – Terrence Franklin Presents at ACTEC 2025 Annual Meeting

Partner Terrence Franklin is speaking on the panel “Cultural Competence in Estate Planning” at the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) 2025 Annual Meeting. The session highlights the importance of cultural competency in the estate planning process and provides estate planning professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively serve diverse clients. The program also explores ethical considerations when working with diverse clients and includes a case study to analyze how cultural competency is applied.

The ACTEC Annual Meeting is being held March 20 – 23, 2025, at the La Quinta Resort & Club in Palm Springs, CA. Learn more here.

Eight Attorneys named to Southern California Super Lawyers and Rising Stars 2025 Lists

Meg Lodise Recognized on Top 50 Women and Top 100 Lists; Terrence Franklin Recognized on Top 100 List

Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey and Bob Sacks have been selected for inclusion on the Southern California Super Lawyers 2025 list for their work in trusts and estates litigation. Additionally, Lodise was named to the Top 100 and Top 50 Women lists, and Franklin was named to the Top 100 list. This marks the 21st consecutive year being ranked for Franklin, Lodise and Sacks, and McMurtrey’s 11th consecutive year.

Partner John Scheerer and Associates Joshua LeVasseur, Michele Nielsen and Tonie Pimienta Lefebvre were selected to Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2025 for their work in trusts and estates litigation. This is Scheerer’s 3rd consecutive year being ranked, LeVasseur’s 2nd year, Nielsen’s 1st year and Pimienta Lefebvre’s 5th year.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. The Southern California lawyers who receive the highest point totals during this selection process are further recognized in Southern California Super Lawyers Top Lists. Rising Stars is an exclusive list of top-rated attorneys either 40 years old or younger or in practice for 10 years or less in specific practice areas who are chosen after thorough evaluation of numerous criteria.

Los Angeles Business Journal Selects Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys 2025

For the second consecutive year, Partner Terrence Franklin has been named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys list. The list profiles standout minority attorneys who are considered to be particularly impactful in the legal industry while serving as trusted advisors in the Los Angeles region.

Franklin was recognized for handling some of the most significant and complex trusts and estates litigation throughout California, including the landmark Moeller v. Superior Court case, which was brought before the California Supreme Court and established a fiduciary exception to the attorney-client privilege for successor trustees.

View the list here. (Subscription may be required)

Resolving Contested Trusts and Estates – Related Fiduciary Matters Without Litigation – John Scheerer Authors Thomson Reuters Practical Law Trusts & Estates Article

The estate and trust administration processes often proceed without controversy. However, disputes may arise when the decedent’s estate plan does not match a beneficiary’s expectations, or a beneficiary is dissatisfied with a fiduciary’s actions. Whether counsel are representing a fiduciary (typically the executor of an estate or the successor trustee of an inter vivos trust created by an individual that has recently died) or a beneficiary in a trust or estate administration matter, counsel should be aware of and attempt to help the client resolve any potential or actual disputes before they progress to formal litigation.

In his Thomson Reuters Practical Law Trusts & Estates article, Partner John Scheerer examines key issues counsel should consider when representing a fiduciary or a beneficiary in a trust or estate administration matter that may be subject to disputes to help resolve the matter without litigation. He explains how the process of pre-litigation settlement begins, how to settle before litigation, what information is needed and useful for a settlement, and types of settlements.

Read the article here.

Seven Deadly Trust and Estate Claims – Terrence Franklin Speaks at ABA RPTE Law Section Virtual CLE Conference

As estate and trust litigation intensifies around the country, a wave of novel claims has been evolving. Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Seven Deadly Trust and Estate Claims” at the ABA Real Property, Trust & Estate Law Advanced Virtual Conference, examining the most significant claims, including:

The elements of each
Defenses
Techniques to avoid the claims altogether

The two-day virtual program is being held February 11-12, 2025, and is designed to keep practitioners up to date on the latest developments in core planning topics in each of the trusts and estates and real property fields. Learn more.

How Typical Trust Agreements Clauses Can Get Turned Around in the Real World – Meg Lodise Interviewed on ACTEC Trust & Estate Talk Podcast

Partner Meg Lodise joined ACTEC Fellows Ray Prather and Eric Penzer on the ACTEC Trust & Estate Talk Podcast to discuss how competing interests of the settlor, the intended beneficiaries, and the trustee can cause the drafting of trust agreements to go awry. They examined issues concerning distribution standards, competing beneficiaries as well as trust situs and advisor issues which arise despite the attempts of drafters and advisors to create a well-functioning trust.

Listen to the podcast here.

Terrence Franklin Chairs USC Gould School of Law 50th Annual Trust and Estate Conference

Partner Terrence Franklin served as Chair of the USC Gould School of Law 50th Annual Trust and Estate Conference, a role he has held since 2019. In addition to serving as conference Chair, Franklin has spoken several times over the years to share how a will contest secured his ancestors’ emancipation from slavery nearly 20 years before the Civil War, and how this history shapes his mission to create lasting change.

The Trust and Estate Conference delivers practical and real-life solutions from speakers with a proven track record of addressing unexpected problems in estate planning, probate and trust administration. The programming is tailored for trust, estate planning, probate and elder law professionals, including attorneys, paralegals, trust officers, accountants, financial institution executives, private professional fiduciaries, wealth management professionals, fiduciary officers, underwriters and insurance advisors.

The conference was held November 19, 2024, at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites in downtown Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Times Names Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise to Legal Visionaries 2024

Partners Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise have been named to Los Angeles Times’ Legal Visionaries 2024 list in acknowledgement of their commitment to excellence, thought leadership and impactful contributions to both their clients and the broader legal community.

With over 30 years of experience in trusts and estates disputes, Franklin was lauded for his notable achievements including the landmark Moeller v. Superior Court case and the successful representation of trustees in high stakes matters. Los Angeles Times also praised Franklin for advancing his mission to “Help Bend the Arc of History Towards Justice” by establishing the UCLA School of Law Postgraduate Fellowship for Racial Equity in Trust & Estate Law, co-founding the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) DEIA Committee and developing and hosting ACTEC’s video series on equitable practices.

Lodise was noted for handling complex disputes and shaping legal precedents, including the landmark victory in O’Connor v. O’Connor, which clarified powers of appointment, and successfully representing a nonprofit organization in a $35-million trust case. Los Angeles Times also recognized Lodise’s work via ACTEC, authoring influential amicus briefs that have impacted key Supreme Court decisions, and advocating for diversity in the legal profession in her former role as president of the Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles.

View the Legal Visionaries 2024 feature here.

Impact of NCBE Dropping Wills & Trusts from the Next Gen Bar Exam – Meg Lodise Authors Daily Journal Article

The National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) which develops the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) currently used by 40 states, has dropped wills and trusts as a tested subject matter from the Next Gen Bar Exam scheduled to be rolled out in July 2026. Not all of the 40 states currently using the UBE have signed on to the Next Gen Bar exam, but an increasing number are doing so. Although California is bucking the trend for the moment, trusts and estates practitioners are justifiably worried about the negative impact the decision to remove wills and trusts from the bar exam throughout large portions of the country.

In her Daily Journal article, Partner Meg Lodise explores the essential role that trusts and estates practitioners play for clients across all economic backgrounds. She emphasizes the heightened need for such professionals and warns that a shortage of trusts and estates attorneys would ultimately be a disservice to the public.

Read the article beginning on page 16. (Subscription may be required)

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Named to Best Law Firms 2025 List

Best Law Firms® has recognized Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, as a Tier 1 firm for Trusts and Estates Litigation in Los Angeles. This is the highest designation given in the practice area.

Los Angeles Times Recognizes Terrence Franklin as a DEIA Visionary

Partner Terrence Franklin has been named to Los Angeles Times 2024 list of DEIA Visionaries in recognition of his innovative initiatives and tireless advocacy in advancing DEIA within the legal community and beyond. The list represents some of the most prominent game changers in the business world today. Franklin was commended for his work in establishing the UCLA School of Law Postgraduate Fellowship for Racial Equity in Trust & Estate Law and founding ACTEC’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity Committee, among other educational initiatives.

View Franklin’s profile here.

Four Partners Named to Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers List for Probate Litigation

Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey and Bob Sacks have been recognized on the 2025 Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers list for their work in Probate Litigation. The list includes lawyers working primarily with private client or high-net worth matters, meaning headline names or massive assets and business interests.

To be selected for a Lawdragon guide, a lawyer will have been in practice 10 years or more and has had a significant impact in their respective practice area. Lawdragon aims to include lawyers who are admired for their intellect and wisdom as well as conduct and leadership.

View the full 2025 list here.

Meg Lodise Presents at ACTEC 2024 Fall Meeting

Partner Meg Lodise spoke on the panel “How Did Everything Go So Wrong? What Might Happen When No One Is Happy” as part of the Professional Program: Three’s Company or Three’s a Crowd: The Interaction and Tension Between Estate Planners, Fiduciary Counsel and Fiduciary Litigators in Representing Their Respective Clients, at the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) 2024 Fall Meeting.

“The best laid schemes o’ Mice an’ Men” isn’t supposed to be a reference to your clients’ trust agreements, but sometimes the drafting goes awry due to the competing interests of the settlor, the intended beneficiaries and the trustee. Composed of a panel of fiduciary litigators, this session examined the drafting process and the administration of challenging provisions in the trust agreement.

The ACTEC Fall Meeting was held September 19–22, 2024, in Chicago.

Benchmark Litigation Ranks Meg Lodise as a “Litigation Star” in 2025 Guide

Partner Meg Lodise has once again been recognized as a “Litigation Star” in the Benchmark Litigation 2025 Guide to leading lawyers. She was ranked in the category of Trusts and Estates both nationally and in California. The list of “Litigation Stars” reflects those individuals who were recommended consistently as reputable and effective litigators by clients and peers.

Benchmark Litigation is touted as the definitive guide to the world’s leading litigation law firms and lawyers. Research is conducted through extensive interviews with litigators, dispute resolution specialists and their clients to identify the leading litigators and firms. During these interviews, Benchmark examines recent casework handled by law firms and asks individual litigators to provide their professional opinions on peers and practitioners within their jurisdiction or practice area.

View Lodise’s profile here.

Los Angeles Times B2B Recognizes Meg Lodise as a Shortlisted Nominee for Inspirational Women Forum and Leadership Awards 2024

Partner Meg Lodise has been named a shortlisted nominee for the Los Angeles Times B2B 4th annual Inspirational Women Forum and Leadership Awards in recognition of her notable accomplishments. The awards celebrate female business leaders who have achieved remarkable success and made significant contributions within their organization and in the community.

The Inspirational Women Forum and Leadership Awards event will be held November 14, 2024, at InterContinental Downtown Los Angeles. Learn more here.

Terrence Franklin Speaks at Harvard Black Alumni Global Changemakers Conference

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Reparations: Reparative Measures for the Legacy of Slavery” at the Harvard Black Alumni Global Changemakers Conference taking place September 27 – 28, 2024 on the Harvard campus. The conference provides a unique forum for the discussion of major issues affecting the Black community in the U.S. and globally.

The conference is organized by the Harvard Black Alumni Society and co-presented by Black Harvard Alumni organizations: Harvard Business School African American Alumni Association, Harvard Law School Black Alumni Network, Harvard Kennedy School of Government Black Alumni Association, and The Emerging Harvard Medical School Black Alumni Network

Learn more about the conference here.

John Scheerer Appointed as ABA RPTE Vice-Chair – Professional Responsibility

Effective September 1, 2024, Partner John Scheerer has been appointed to the position of Vice Chair – Professional Responsibility of the American Bar Association Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section for the 2024-25 bar year.

The ABA Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section (RPTE) is a diverse community of more than 15,000 U.S. and international lawyers, paralegals, real estate and financial services professionals, law students, and legal educators. The Section provides leadership and subject matter expertise on current regulatory and legal issues, trends, and best practices with the goal of empowering members to better serve their clients.

Terrence Franklin Serves as Keynote Speaker at SBCBA Probate Symposium 2024

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” at the San Bernardino County Bar Association (SBCBA) Estate Planning Trust & Probate Section Symposium 2024. In his presentation, Franklin recounts the riveting story of his ancestor Lucy Sutton and her struggle for freedom from slavery, and highlights the vital role that estate planners can play in establishing, preserving and transferring legacies, not just for the wealthy, but for everyone who wants to leave behind a better world behind for those who come after.

The Symposium is being held September 5, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, San Bernardino. Learn more here.

Best Lawyers Names Five Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Partners to 2025 List

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey, Bob Sacks and John Scheerer have once again been selected to Best Lawyers® 2025 for their work in trusts and estates litigation.

The partners have been recognized on the list of Best Lawyers for the following:

Franklin: Fifteen consecutive years; Litigation – Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2016
Lodise: Fifteen consecutive years; Litigation – Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2012
McMurtrey: Ten consecutive years
Sacks: Fifteen consecutive years; Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2014 and 2018
Scheerer: Second consecutive year

**Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Achieves Top Rankings by Chambers and Partners for High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes**

For the seventh consecutive year, Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, has been named a leading law firm for High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes by Chambers and Partners. The firm received a Band 1 designation in California, the highest ranking by the legal guide. Chambers ranks firms based on technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, diligence, commitment and other qualities most valued by clients.

In its editorial, Chambers reported: “Sacks Glazier have a very talented bench that is always reliable. The firm has a number of the most knowledgeable trusts and estates litigators in the state and a good set of associates. They are always responsive and excel at client service.”

The following lawyers are recognized as practice leaders in the Chambers High Net Worth 2024 guide with noted strengths based on feedback from clients and other professionals in the industry:

Terrence Franklin: “Terrence is an excellent litigator. He is amazing and has terrific intelligence.”

Meg Lodise: “Ms. Lodise is an excellent trusts and estates attorney; one of the best. She is exceptionally knowledgeable, helpful, and responsive.”

Matthew McMurtrey: “Mr. McMurtrey is extremely knowledgeable and an incredibly talented litigator. He is a good advocate and fights hard for his clients.”

Robert Sacks: “Bob is an exceptional lawyer; very knowledgeable and comprehensive. Bob is very personable and a quick thinker. He knows his stuff.”

View the firm’s profile and complete rankings here.

Chambers and Partners is the leading independent professional legal research company operating across 200 jurisdictions. Chambers delivers detailed rankings and insight into the world’s leading lawyers and law firms.

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Meg Lodise and Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys 2024

In recognition of their influence and track record of success in trusts and estates litigation, Partners Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise have been selected to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys 2024 list.

Franklin was recognized for the resolution of numerous high-profile, multimillion-dollar disputes on behalf of beneficiaries, trustees, individuals and institutional clients. He was also noted for several published appeals and the landmark Moeller v. Superior Court case brought before the California Supreme Court which established a fiduciary exception to the attorney-client privilege for successor trustees.

Lodise was lauded for not only resolving some of the most complex, high-dollar trusts and estates disputes, but also shaping the future of trusts and estates law. She obtained a precedent-setting decision in O’Connor v. O’Connor, defending an appeal brought to challenge the exercise of a power of appointment. In a published decision, the Court of Appeal affirmed the probate court orders, and in doing so, clarified California law on powers of appointment.

Clients with Diminished Capacity: Facts, Strategies & Ethics – Meg Lodise and Michele Nielsen Present CEB California CLE Program

What is diminished capacity, is your client affected and how will you carry out your professional duties? Whether due to age, disability or other factors, practitioners must consider these questions and the legal aspects of representing clients with diminished capacity in estate planning and litigation.

In their Continuing Education of the Bar – California CLE program, Partner Meg Lodise and Associate Michele Nielsen address how to recognize diminished capacity and offer strategies to accommodate and ethically represent these clients.

Learn more and access the on-demand program here.

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Meg Lodise to Women of Influence: Attorneys List

For the third consecutive year, Partner Meg Lodise was recognized on the Los Angeles Business Journal Women of Influence: Attorneys list for 2024. Lodise was acknowledged for handling some of the most complex and high-dollar trusts and estates disputes in California. Her work not only achieves important resolutions for clients, but also shapes the future of trusts and estates law.

The Women of Influence list selects attorneys for their exceptional legal skill and achievement across the full spectrum of responsibility, exemplary leadership as evidenced by the highest professional and ethical standards, and for contributions to the Los Angeles community at large

View the full list here.

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to Rose Community Foundation

In his presentation “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to Rose Community Foundation, Partner Terrence Franklin shared the story of uncovering a family will that liberated his ancestors from slavery in 1846, and highlighted the crucial role professional advisors have in preserving legacies for a better world.

Rose Community Foundation works to advance inclusive, engaged and equitable Greater Denver communities through values-driven philanthropy.

Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Video: The Origin of “Grandfathered” and the “Grandfather Clause”

The terms “grandfathered” and “grandfather clause” have significant historical and legal implications, particularly in the context of American history and its legacy of racial discrimination. As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) “Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future” video series, Partner Terrence Franklin led a conversation with Fellows Ronald D. Aucutt and Stephanie Perry who explored the historical significance of these terms in U.S. law, and discussed if they belong in modern times.

Watch the ACTEC video here.

Terrence Franklin Selected to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Top 100 Lawyers List

Los Angeles Business Journal named Partner Terrence Franklin to its Top 100 Lawyers 2024 list in recognition of his breadth of experience handling some of the most significant and complex trusts and estates litigation.

Franklin was commended for representing one of the nation’s largest banks in its capacity as trustee in a complex array of accounting and related disputes, resulting in no liability and a recovery of trustee’s fees and attorney’s fees.

The Top 100 list features lawyers who have demonstrated exceptional legal skill and achievements across the full spectrum of responsibility, exemplary leadership and contributions to the Los Angeles community.

Terrence Franklin Speaks on Mission of Bet Tzedek Postgraduate Fellowship for Racial Equity in Trust & Estate Law at “Leaving a Legacy” Event

Partner Terrence Franklin is participating in the Bet Tzedek “Leaving a Legacy” estate planning event to discuss the mission of the Postgraduate Fellowship for Racial Equity in Trust & Estate Law, highlighting what has been accomplished in the fellowship’s inaugural year and plans for widening impact.

The event will also address difficulties individuals face when navigating the probate system, estate planning through a legal lens and how you can join Bet Tzedek’s Pro Bono Trust & Estates Advisory Committee to create an intergenerational change for families.

Leaving a Legacy is a free program funded by Los Angeles County’s Department of Consumer & Business Affairs and The American Rescue Plan. The program connects users to trustworthy legal and estate planning tools and services.

The Zoom event is being held on April 10, 2024, from 12 pm – 1 pm PT. Register here.

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Terrence Franklin a Finalist in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards 2024

Partner Terrence Franklin was recognized as a finalist in Los Angeles Business Journal’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards 2024 in the Community Impact category. The awards honor diversity, equity & inclusion champions in the Los Angeles region for their ongoing efforts to celebrate and respect unique needs, while simultaneously creating an inclusive environment that enables diversity and equity to thrive.

Franklin was acknowledged for his innovative initiatives and tireless advocacy to advance DE&I in the legal community and beyond. Most recently, he helped to facilitate the establishment of the UCLA School of Law Postgraduate Fellowship for Racial Equity in Trust & Estate Law, hosted by Bet Tzedek Legal Services. Franklin along with colleagues, obtained a total commitment of nearly $200,000 from Los Angeles firms over two years, allowing UCLA and Bet Tzedek to move forward with launching the Fellowship in 2023. He also assisted UCLA with a grant application to the ACTEC Foundation which was approved earlier this year for a one-year $23,000 grant to support the Bet Tzedek inaugural Postgraduate Fellow for Equity in Trust and Estate Law.

The Racial Will-Making Gap and Efforts to Close It – Terrence Franklin Speaks at Boston College Law School’s 2024 ILHPR Conference

Well over $32 billion in real property in the U.S. is estimated to be heirs’ property, a highly unstable form of ownership. Loss of heirs’ property and heirs’ properties that lack clear title increase the racial wealth gap.

At the Boston College Law School Initiative on Land, Housing & Property Rights (ILHPR) 2024 conference, Partner Terrence Franklin is speaking on the panel “The Racial Will-Making Gap and Efforts to Close It” to address racial wealth gap problems and examine potential solutions.

The conference is being held March 21-22, 2024, in Newton, MA. Learn more here.

The ILHPR seeks to preserve and expand property rights for disadvantaged communities across the United States by producing research, devising legal reform and policy solutions, engaging in community outreach, training law students, and drawing on other complementary strategies. The Initiative encompasses a wide range of matters, including but not limited to rural land loss among socially and economically disadvantaged families; the past and present of the destabilization of urban neighborhoods due to redlining, urban renewal, and rising markets; the role of law and policy in ameliorating housing inequality and housing insecurity; and the issues rural and urban so-called heirs’ property owners face in retaining their properties and realizing the potential of their ownership.

Seven Deadly Trust & Estate Claims – Terrence Franklin Speaks at ACTEC 2024 Annual Meeting

As estate and trust litigation intensifies around the country, a wave of novel claims has been evolving. Most trust and estate professionals need to be educated about these claims – and may not know of them at all.

At the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) 2024 Annual Meeting, Partner Terrence Franklin joins a panel of experts to examine the seven most significant claims, including: the elements of each; defenses; and techniques to avoid the claims altogether. The presentation will explore notable developments of interest to estate and trust fiduciaries across the United States.

The program is being held March 7, 2024, at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Arizona.

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History” to UB Greensfelder

Partner Terrence Franklin had litigated trusts and estates disputes for twenty-five years when he discovered the story of the will that set his ancestors free from slavery in 1846, and how that document was challenged in court. Discovering the story of the will, and his fourth great-grandmother Lucy Sutton’s role in helping to get the will made and enforced, taught Franklin a lesson – we all have a role to play in shaping history.

In his presentation to UB Greensfelder on February 29, 2024, Franklin recounted the riveting story of Lucy and the fight in the courts to uphold the last will and testament. He also profiled several other black women, contemporaries of Lucy, who just may have helped Lucy and her family make it to freedom.

Ensuring Justice and Equity in Estate Planning for Seniors – Terrence Franklin Speaks at Bet Tzedek Rebecca Nichols Symposium

Partner Terrence Franklin is speaking on the panel “Legacy Matters: Ensuring Justice and Equity in Estate Planning for Seniors” at the Bet Tzedek Rebecca Nichols Symposium.

So often overlooked, estate planning is a critical need to preserve and grow generational wealth in historically underserved communities. Many lower-income families are forced to sell their only asset — the family home — preventing future generations from building financial security. In response, Bet Tzedek is hosting a panel discussion to address these issues for all low-income Angelenos.

The Symposium is being held Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the Zócalo Public Square in downtown Los Angeles and is open to the public. The event will also be live-streamed. Register by email to [email protected].

Tiffany Sarchet Serves as a Coach for UCLA Law’s Mock Trial Team

Associate Tiffany Sarchet has joined as a coach for the UCLA Law Mock Trial Team, which has been ranked #1 since 2019 in a field of more than 160 law schools by Fordham Law’s Trial Competition Performance Rankings. The UCLA Law Mock Trial Team includes some of the most accomplished trial coaches in the country.

Trial advocacy competitions (mock trials) present another way for law students to get valuable experience and are as close to real-world situations as possible, with carefully constructed cases complete with witness statements, exhibits, stipulations and jury instructions. Teams of two to four students prepare their cases for the courtroom, with guidance from coaches.

Sarchet obtained her JD from UCLA School of Law in 2021.

Learn more about UCLA Law’s Mock Trial Team here.

Four Attorneys Named to Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2024 List

Partner John Scheerer and Associates Joshua LeVasseur, Mary Lipscomb and Tonie Pimienta Lefebvre have been selected to Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2024 for their work in trusts and estates litigation. Rising Stars is an exclusive list of top-rated attorneys either 40 years old or younger or in practice for 10 years or less in specific practice areas who were chosen after thorough evaluation of numerous criteria.

This is John’s second consecutive year being ranked; Tonie’s fourth year; and Joshua and Mary’s first year.

View the attorneys’ Rising Stars profiles here.

Los Angeles Business Journal Selects Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys 2024 List

Partner Terrence Franklin has been named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys 2024 list in recognition of his impact in the legal industry while serving as a trusted advisor in L.A.

Los Angeles Business Journal praised Franklin’s 30-plus year career handling some of the most significant and complex trusts and estates litigation. Notably, Franklin recently represented one of the nation’s largest banks in its capacity as trustee in a complex array of accounting and related disputes, resulting in no liability and a recovery of trustee’s fees and attorney’s fees. He resisted an appeal by the beneficiary and the case was successfully settled with the plaintiff.

View the Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys feature here. (Subscription required)

Four Partners Selected to Southern California Super Lawyers 2024
Meg Lodise Named to Top 100 and Top 50 Women Lists; Terrence Franklin Recognized on Top 100 List

Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey and Bob Sacks have been selected for inclusion on the SouthernCalifornia Super Lawyers 2024 list for their work in Estate and Trust Litigation. Lodise was also named to the Top 100 and Top 50 Women lists, and Franklin was named to the Top 100 list.

This marks Franklin’s twentieth consecutive year being ranked by Super Lawyers, Lodise’s twentieth consecutive year, McMurtrey’s tenth consecutive year and Sacks’ twentieth consecutive year.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. The Southern California lawyers who receive the highest point totals during this selection process are further recognized in Southern California Super Lawyers Top Lists.

Terrence Franklin Presents DEI Keynote at New Jersey State Bar 2023 Elder and Disability Law Symposium

Partner Terrence Franklin presented the keynote “Bending the Arc of History – A DEI Presentation” at the New Jersey State Bar 2023 Elder and Disability Law Symposium on December 18, 2023. The annual Symposium is a unique program for Elder and Disability Law attorneys, providing an in-depth update on case law and legislation. Attendees heard from a panel of experts on various topics from Medicaid to trusts and tax issues.

The program agenda included:

Fiduciary Powers – How to Appoint, Direct and Control
Directed Trusts in Special Needs Planning – Administrative and Tax Considerations
Ethical Considerations Representing Clients with Diminished Capacity
Practical Analysis of Will and Trust Reformation
Medicaid Math and Methodology
DDD A to Z for the Elder Law Practitioner
Medicaid Application Strategies – Anticipating the Fair Hearing and Beyond

Litigation Associate Michele Nielsen Joins Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP LLP

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP LLP, a Los Angeles-based firm specializing in trusts and estates litigation, welcomes new attorney Michele Nielsen. She was previously a Litigation Associate at Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.

Nielsen received her J.D. in 2016 from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, where she was elected to the Order of the Coif and served on the UCLA Law Review and the UCLA Entertainment Law Review. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Princeton University with honors. Nielsen also clerked for the Honorable Jacqueline H. Nguyen on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and before law school, worked at Estate Plan, Inc. in Laguna Beach, California.

Los Angeles Times Names Terrence Franklin to DEIA Visionaries 2023 List

For the third consecutive year, Partner Terrence Franklin has been selected to Los Angeles Times’ list of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Visionaries which recognizes some of the area’s most influential and innovative thought leaders who are driving change, holding companies accountable and helping employees feel more valued.

Franklin was praised for his efforts to “Help Bend the Arc of History Towards Justice” through DEIA initiatives such as establishing fellowships, committees and programs within professional organizations like ACTEC, Bet Tzedek Legal Services and UCLA School of Law. His leadership has also expanded opportunities for minority law students and increased visibility for minority trusts and estates lawyers. Franklin was also recognized for ongoing projects including incorporating his family’s emancipation story into law school curricula and a collaboration with the Oakland Symphony Chorus to inspire and educate through music and storytelling.

View Franklin’s profile here.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Ranked a Tier 1 “Best Law Firm” by Best Lawyers®

Best Lawyers® has once again recognized Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, as a “Best Law Firm” in the area of Trusts & Estates Litigation. The firm was awarded a Tier 1 ranking in Los Angeles, the highest designation given in the practice area.

Best Law Firms® is a ranking of exceptional law firms, rooted in a rigorous, peer-to-peer, industry-driven evaluation. Achieving a tiered ranking in Best Law Firms signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise. Ranked ﬁrms, presented in three tiers, are recognized on a national and metro-based scale.

The Best Law Firms research methodology includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review form leading attorneys in their field and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process.

Business Today Names Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise and Bob Sacks to Top 10 Influential California Lawyers in Private Wealth Disputes

In recognition of their extensive experience and stellar track records in providing legal counsel for high-net-worth trust and estate matters, Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise and Bob Sacks were selected to Business Today’s Top 10 list of Influential California Lawyers in Private Wealth Disputes. The list acknowledges driven, knowledgeable and dependable lawyers who handle some of the most significant private wealth disputes throughout the state.

View the full list here.

Benchmark Litigation Ranks Meg Lodise as a “Litigation Star” in 2024 Guide

Partner Meg Lodise has once again been recognized as a “Litigation Star” in the Benchmark Litigation 2024 Guide to leading lawyers. Lodise was ranked in the category of Trusts and Estates, both nationally and in California. The list of “Litigation Stars” reflects those individuals who were recommended consistently as reputable and effective litigators by clients and peers.

Benchmark Litigation is touted as the definitive guide to the world’s leading litigation law firms and lawyers. Research is conducted through extensive interviews with litigators, dispute resolution specialists and their clients to identify the leading litigators and firms. During these interviews, Benchmark examines recent casework handled by law firms and asks individual litigators to provide their professional opinions on peers and practitioners within their jurisdiction or practice area.

Terrence Franklin Serves as Conference Chair for USC Gould School of Law 49th Annual Trust & Estate Conference

Partner Terrence Franklin is once again serving as Conference Chair for the USC Gould School of Law 49th Annual Trust & Estate Conference, a role he has held since 2019. Franklin will provide opening remarks for the conference being held November 17, 2023, at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

For over 48 years, the conference has provided high-quality continuing education customized for trust and estate planning professionals, including attorneys, paralegals, trust officers, accountants, financial institution executives, private professional fiduciaries, wealth management professionals, fiduciary officers, underwriters and insurance advisors. This year’s unmatched lineup of speakers will share valuable insight into the techniques instrumental to the success of their very own practices. The conference is being offered in an in-person and virtual format. Continuing education units are available for lawyers, accountants, financial planners, professional fiduciaries, trust and financial advisors.

Learn more and register here.

How to Protect Your Charity – Meg Lodise Speaks at Hawaii Tax Institute 60th Annual Conference

Partner Meg Lodise is speaking on the panel “How to Protect Your Charity” at the Hawaii Tax Institute 60th Annual Conference on November 7, 2023.

Charities are sometimes perceived as extremely litigious when they are named as a beneficiary in a trust or will. What the public doesn’t hear is that sometimes charities do not receive the information or funds the grantor or decedent wanted them to receive because a family member intervened. This session will discuss what a charity must decide:

Does it have the resources to pursue an action?
What are the risks of tarnishing its reputation?
Will it deter future donors?
What information is a charity entitled to?
What information should a charity request?
When a charity does get an accounting, what should it be looking for?

The Hawaii Tax Institute will be offering “HTI ANYWHERE” in addition to the in-person conference. HTI ANYWHERE will be a live stream option for the in-person plenary sessions. Learn more and register here.

John Scheerer Appointed Member at Large of the Beverly Hills Estate Planning Council

Partner John Scheerer has been named Member at Large of the Beverly Hills Estate Planning Council (BHEPC) for the 2023-24 term.

BHEPC is the premiere network of estate planning advisors, including attorneys, CPAs, trust officers, wealth managers, insurance agents and valuation professionals. BHEPC is exclusive to professionals with a desire to advance the estate planning profession through continuing education and exchange. Membership requires a minimum of five years of estate planning experience in the legal, accounting, tax, wealth management, insurance, trust, valuation or related fields and emphasis of practice must include estate planning or tax.

Learn more about BHEPC membership here.

Best Lawyers Names Five Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Partners to 2024 List

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey, Bob Sacks and John Scheerer have been selected to Best Lawyers® 2024 for their work in trusts and estates litigation.

The partners have been recognized on the list of Best Lawyers for the following:

Franklin: Fourteen consecutive years; Litigation – Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2016
Lodise: Fourteen consecutive years; Litigation – Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2012
McMurtrey: Nine consecutive years
Sacks: Fourteen consecutive years; Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in Los Angeles, 2014 and 2018
Scheerer: First year

**Meg Lodise Named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys 2023 List**

For the fourth consecutive year, Partner Meg Lodise has been recognized on Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys list for her work in trusts and estates litigation. Lodise was lauded for not only achieving important resolutions for clients, but also for the impact her work has in shaping the future of trusts and estates law.

In one example, Lodise was requested by Mark Klaver, Counsel for the Government of Canada’s Trade Law Bureau, to act as an expert and testify. She produced a comprehensive written report and, testified in a five-day arbitration on California trust law in connection with a NAFTA Chapter 11 dispute where the parties’ standing to make a multimillion-dollar claim centered on whether an oral trust was validly formed under California law.

View the Leaders of Influence list in the July 24^th issue.

**Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Maintains Tier 1 Ranking by Chambers and Partners for High-Net-Worth Private Wealth Disputes – Four Partners Individually Recognized**

For the fifth consecutive year, Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, has been named a leading law firm for High-Net-Worth Private Wealth Disputes by Chambers and Partners. The firm received a Band 1 designation in California, the highest ranking by the legal guide. Chambers recognizes firms based on technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, diligence, commitment and other qualities most valued by clients.

Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey and Bob Sacks were recognized as Notable Practitioners in the Private Wealth Disputes category for their work in trusts and estates litigation. This marks Franklin, Lodise and Sacks’ fifth consecutive year being ranked, and McMurtrey’s first year.

In its editorial based on interviews with clients and attorney colleagues, Chambers reported:

Franklin: “Terry is an incredibly thoughtful lawyer.”

Lodise: “Margaret is a superstar. She provided outstanding legal services. She is really good at picking up issues quickly and finding solutions to guide the client along.”

McMurtrey: “Matthew has always been excellent in his communication and provision of legal advice and evaluation.”

Sacks: “Robert is so knowledgeable. He is someone who presents exceptionally well in front of the court and is a terrific advocate for his clients.”

View the firm’s Chambers and Partners profile here.

Blind Success: Hiring Visually Impaired and Disabled Lawyers – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s “Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future” video series, Partner Terrence Franklin interviewed Fellow Dick Nenno about his experience as a blind lawyer: lessons learned, technology and professional support to get the job done, and recommendations for law firms hiring individuals with disabilities.

Watch the interview here.

**Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise Named Los Angeles Times Business of Law: Legal Visionaries**

Recognized for their noteworthy success on behalf of clients and exemplary leadership in the community, Partners Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise were honored as “Legal Visionaries” in Los Angeles Times’ Business of Law feature.

Franklin was acknowledged for handling some of the most significant and complex trusts and estates disputes over his career as well as for his widespread efforts to educate others on the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Lodise was noted for her high-profile representations and impressive reputation in trusts and estates law, including being asked by counsel for the Government of Canada’s Trade Law Bureau to serve as an expert and testify in a five-day arbitration on California trust law in connection with a NAFTA Chapter II dispute.

View the Los Angeles Times Business of Law: Legal Visionaries feature here.

Partner John Scheerer and Tonie Pimienta Lefebvre Selected to Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2023

Partner John Scheerer and Associate Tonie Pimienta Lefebvre have been named to the Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2023 list for their work in Estate & Trust Litigation. This is Scheerer’s first year being selected and Pimienta Lefebvre’s third year.

Super Lawyers selects attorneys on an annual, state-by-state basis using peer nominations and evaluations combined with independent research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Rising Stars must be either 40 years old or younger or in practice for 10 years or less, and no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys are named to the Rising Stars list.

View the full Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2023 list here.

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Meg Lodise to Top 100 Lawyers List for 2023

Partner Meg Lodise has been recognized on Los Angeles Business Journal’s Top 100 list for her achievements handling some of the most complex and high-dollar trusts and estates disputes, and leadership in the L.A. community and beyond.

Lodise was noted for acting as an expert witness on behalf of the Government of Canada’s Trade Law Bureau, producing a comprehensive written report and testifying in a five-day arbitration on California trust law in connection with a NAFTA Chapter 11 dispute. Los Angeles Business Journal also featured her appointment by the Probate Court as Guardian Ad Litem for the minor children of entertainer Michael Jackson.

Los Angeles Business Journal Recognizes Meg Lodise on Women of Influence: Attorneys 2023 List

For the second consecutive year, Partner Meg Lodise was named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women of Influence: Attorneys list which honors the most influential women legal professionals for exceptional legal skill and achievement across the full spectrum of responsibility, exemplary leadership as evidenced by the highest professional and ethical standards, and for contributions to the L.A. community at large.

Among her high-profile work and underscoring her respect in the trusts and estates community, in November 2021, Lodise was requested by Mark Klaver, counsel for the Government of Canada’s Trade Law Bureau, to act as an expert and testify. She produced a comprehensive written report and, testified in a five-day arbitration on California trust law in connection with a NAFTA Chapter 11 dispute where the parties’ standing to make a multimillion-dollar claim centered on whether an oral trust was validly formed under California law. The opposing expert was a retired California appellate court justice.

View the full feature here.

Terrence Franklin Serves as Keynote Speaker at Bet Tzedek 7th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Symposium

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting the keynote address “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” at the Bet Tzedek 7th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Symposium. His talk will examine the importance of advance planning as a tool to increase equity, preserve intergenerational wealth and prevent elder abuse. The Symposium is being held at the California Endowment Center on June 1, 2023.

Terrence Franklin Featured Guest on Northwestern Intersections Podcast – “Bending the Arc of History Toward Justice”

On the Northwestern Intersections podcast, Partner Terrence Franklin (’84 alumnus) shares how finding the will of his fourth great-grandfather, John Sutton, revealed the emancipation story of his fourth great-grandmother, Lucy Sutton, and their children, which included a legal battle over John’s intentions in freeing his family. Franklin describes the deeply personal journey of discovering his family’s history and how he is using creative pursuits to amplify his ancestors’ story, demonstrating that we all have a role to play in shaping the arc of history.

This episode also includes a preview of Franklin’s most recent endeavor, The Lucy Sutton Suite: A Truth-Telling in Four Parts, a musical collaboration with the Oakland Symphony Chorus that will be part of the Chorus’ Mass for Freedom Concert and Tour. This musical exploration is an invitation to be inspired by our ancestors to claim past legacies and create new ones.

Listen to the episode here.

**Ethical Considerations in the Representation of Fiduciaries and Beneficiaries – Meg Lodise Publishes Daily Journal Article**

The representation of fiduciary and beneficiary clients in the trusts and estates context requires an attorney to consider various rules contained in the California Rules of Professional Conduct. As a result, trust and estate practitioners, more so than perhaps any other attorneys, need to always be considering who is the client and what issues might arise that could require additional expertise or create a conflict for the attorney. In her article for Daily Journal, Partner Meg Lodise examines several Rules of Professional Conduct and what attorneys should be aware of when handling matters concerning estates and trusts.

Read the full article here. (Subscription may be required)

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Attorneys Selected as 2023 Southern California Super Lawyers

Meg Lodise Named to “Top 100” and “Top 50 Women” Lists

Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey, Bob Sacks and Of Counsel Ken Glazier have once again been selected for inclusion on the Southern California Super Lawyers 2023 list for their work in the area of Estate and Trust Litigation. Lodise has also been named to the “Top 50 Women” and “Top 100” lists.

Hiring, Examining and Being an Expert Witness – Meg Lodise Moderates Panel at ACTEC 2023 Annual Meeting

Partner Meg Lodise is moderating the panel, “Be Overqualified, Not Overconfident! Hiring, Examining and Being an Expert Witness,” at the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) 2023 Annual Meeting.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Elevates Attorney John Scheerer to Partner

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, a Los Angeles-based trusts and estates litigation firm, has announced the promotion of John Scheerer to partner effective January 1, 2023.

Terrence Franklin Recognized on L.A. Times’ 2022 List of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Visionaries

For the second consecutive year, Partner Terrence Franklin has been named to the list of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Visionaries by L.A. Times. The annual feature highlights some of the most prominent and game-changing individuals in their respective organizations and business sectors.

Matt McMurtrey Elected to American College of Trust and Estate Counsel

Managing Partner Matt McMurtrey has been peer-elected to the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) as a Fellow. ACTEC is a national organization of more than 2,400 lawyer and law professor members who are called “Fellows” and are the best and brightest in the trust and estate practice, with years of experience representing and advising in the field. To become a Fellow, one must be nominated by an active Fellow in good standing and elected by the Board of Regents.

Terrence Franklin Chairs USC Gould 48th Annual Trust and Estate Conference

Partner Terrence Franklin is serving as Chair for the USC Gould 48th Annual Trust and Estate Conference taking place November 9, 2022, at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites in downtown Los Angeles. The Conference is being held in person and virtually, and offers CE credit for attendees.

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” at Delaware Trust Conference 2022

Partner Terrence Franklin had been a trusts and estates litigator, handling disputes including will contests for a quarter century, when he discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his white fourth great-grandfather that emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren from slavery.

Benchmark Litigation Ranks Meg Lodise as a “Litigation Star” in 2023 Guide

Partner Meg Lodise has been recognized as a “Litigation Star” in the Benchmark Litigation 2023 Guide to leading lawyers. She was recognized in the category of Trusts and Estates both nationally and in California.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Named to “Best Law Firms” 2023 List by U.S. News – Best Lawyers®

U.S. News – Best Lawyers® has once again recognized Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, on the “Best Law Firms” 2023 list in the category of Trusts & Estates Litigation. The firm was awarded a Tier 1 ranking in Los Angeles, the highest designation given in the practice area.

Meg Lodise Serves as Contributing Drafter for ACTEC Amicus Brief Submitted to Supreme Court

Partner Meg Lodise served as a contributing drafter for an amicus brief in Alexandru Bittner v. United States, filed by the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) on August 16, 2022 with the Supreme Court.

Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice – Terrence Franklin Presents Virtual Seminar to Greater Milwaukee Foundation

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting the free continuing education virtual seminar “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to the Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s Herbert J. Mueller Society, in partnership with the Greater Cedarburg Foundation, Oconomowoc Area Foundation and West Bend Community Foundation.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Partners Named to The Best Lawyers in America 2023

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey and Bob Sacks have once again been selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©2023 for their work in trusts and estates litigation.

Ethical Issues Arising in the Representation of Fiduciaries and Beneficiaries – Meg Lodise Speaks at ALI CLE Program

Meg Lodise is presenting “Ethical Issues Arising in the Representation of Fiduciaries and Beneficiaries” at the ALI CLE program “Representing Estate and Trust Beneficiaries and Fiduciaries 2022.” The webcast will be held on Friday, October 21 at 8:30 am PT.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Welcomes Three New Associates

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, is pleased to announce the addition of three associate attorneys: Antonieta (Tonie) Pimienta Lefebvre, Joshua LeVasseur and Mary Lipscomb.
“We are thrilled to have this talented group of attorneys join us and welcome the new perspectives they will bring to our trust and estate litigation practice” said managing partner. “They all have a high caliber of legal skill and will be excellent advocates for our clients.”McMurtrey. “They all have a high caliber of legal skill and will be excellent advocates for our clients.”

Protecting Civil Liberties in America: Korematsu v. United States – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

The 1944 Supreme Court case Korematsu v. United States retains significant relevance to present-day civil liberties and SCOTUS decisions. As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terrence Franklin leads a conversation with Dr. Karen Korematsu, daughter of plaintiff Fred Korematsu who refused to report to an internment camp during World War II, and ACTEC Fellow Hung V. Nguyen as they discuss the history of Japanese-American internment in the U.S., the case, and its relevance to social issues today.

Terrence Franklin & Meg Lodise Recognized by Los Angeles Business Journal as Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys

Partners Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise have once again been selected by Los Angeles Business Journal as Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys for 2022. The list features superb litigation specialists in the L.A. region who have made a significant impact on the profession and in the community.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Receives Top Ranking by Chambers and Partners for High-Net-Worth Private Wealth Disputes

Three partners recognized as Notable Practitioners, Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, has once again been named a leading law firm for High-Net-Worth Private Wealth Disputes by Chambers and Partners. The firm received a Band 1 designation in California, the highest ranking by the legal guide. Chambers recognizes firms based on technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, diligence, commitment and other qualities most valued by clients.

Meg Lodise Presents “Multi-Generational Representation & Other Common Representation Trickiness” at ACTEC Western Regional Meeting

Partner Meg Lodise is presenting “Multi-Generational Representation & Other Common Representation Trickiness” at the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) Western Regional Meeting being held in Alyeska, Alaska on July 23, 2022. Lodise will scare you awake with common representation pitfalls and recent ethics decisions concerning how and why you need to carefully consider who is your client when engaged in representing families, family businesses and other entities. She will also discuss recent ethics opinions relating to the trusts and estates practice, with reference to ACTEC’s own Commentaries on the Rules of Professional Conduct.

Landmark Civil Rights Cases Decided by the Supreme Court – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

“Equal Justice Under Law” is inscribed on the front of the United States Supreme Court, but in practice, the law has bent over time to reflect the attitudes of society and justices. As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terrence Franklin leads a discussion with ACTEC Fellow Sandra J. Chan and Professor Christopher W. Schmidt about America’s long and continuing march to equality through the lens of critical Supreme Court cases, which in some instances were reversed in later judgments.

Planning for Probate Contests – Meg Lodise Presents for 4th Consecutive Year at ABA RPTE Skills Training for Estate Planners

Partner Meg Lodise is co-presenting “Planning for Probate Contests” as part of the Skills Training for Estate Planners program hosted by the American Bar Association Section of Real Property, Trust & Estate Law and Ancestry ProGenealogists. This segment of the Skills Training program will introduce attendees to the essential concepts of probate litigation, including will and trust disputes, contests, and fiduciary litigation. Those engaged in the estate planning process should be aware of the manner in which probate litigation arises so that they can plan to avoid such disputes (as much as possible). After reviewing those concepts, this segment will explore some of the planning approaches that can be pursued to avoid probate litigation.

Terrence Franklin Presents TEDx Talk on “Bending the Arc of History”

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Bending the Arc of History” at the third annual TEDxDavenport on June 25, 2022, at the Adler Theatre in Davenport, IA. He will share how uncovering the story of his ancestors’ emancipation helped him learn that we all have a role to play in shaping history.

Chronic Illness and Long COVID in the Workplace – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

The COVID pandemic has deeply affected the world and the workplace, and many people infected with the virus are experiencing long-term effects from their infection, known as Long COVID or Post COVID conditions (PCC). As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terrence Franklin leads a discussion with ACTEC Fellow Karen M. Stockmal and Erica Taylor, a staff attorney with the Atlanta Volunteers Lawyers Foundation, who is afflicted with Long COVID, to talk about her ongoing experience with this disease as well as her strategies to combat the cognitive impacts. Amy McAndrew, a labor and employment attorney with the MidAtlantic Employers’ Association, joins Karen and Erica to discuss the rights of employees and employers as they navigate Long COVID and other chronic illnesses.

Hosted By Terrence Franklin, ACTEC’s “Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future” Series Receives Two Awards from Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts

The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC)’s “Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future,” a monthly diversity, equity and inclusion video series hosted by Partner Terrence Franklin, won two Awards of Distinction by the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts.

Terrence Franklin Recognized with Los Angeles Business Journal’s Inaugural Top 100 Lawyers and Champion of Mentorship Awards

In acknowledgement of his exceptional legal skill and achievements across the full spectrum of responsibility, exemplary leadership, and contributions to the Los Angeles community, Partner Terrence Franklin has been recognized among the 2022 Top 100 Lawyers by Los Angeles Business Journal. Publisher and CEO Josh Schimmels commented on the class of winners, saying: “Considering the Los Angeles region has long been known for its status as a hub for thought leaders and record-setting attorneys, being a standout in the field is particularly impressive.”

A Proposal to Repair Racial Wealth Disparity – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

In August 2021, the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC)’s Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future video series shared 40 Acres and a Mule: Reparations and the Estate Tax as an introduction to wealth disparity resulting from slavery and Jim Crow laws, the history of reparations, and the connection to wealth transfer and wealth taxation. In the latest video, A Proposal to Repair Racial Wealth Disparity, hosted by partner Terrence Franklin, the conversation continues with recommendations to address racial wealth disparity in the U.S.

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Meg Lodise to Women of Influence: Attorneys 2022 List

Partner Meg Lodise has been recognized on Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women of Influence: Attorneys list for successfully handling some of the most complex and high-dollar trusts and estates disputes as well as for the ways in which she’s helping to shape the future of trusts and estates law.

“Fair” Housing and Opportunity Hoarding – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

In recognition of Fair Housing Month in April, the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) shares an enlightening video discussion, “Fair” Housing and Opportunity Hoarding, with author and Georgetown University Professor Dr. Sheryll Cashin, hosted by Partner Terrence Franklin. In the video, Professor Cashin debunks the myths of fair housing policy in America and presents compelling information on the historical impact of systemic racism in housing and lending policies.

How to Discuss, Address and Promote DE&I in Your Trusts and Estates Practice and With Clients – Terrence Franklin Presents at 56th Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning

Partner Terrence Franklin is participating on the panel “Ethics and Professionalism in Today’s Society: How to Discuss, Address and Promote Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Your Trusts and Estates Practice and with Your Clients” at the 56^th Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning. The program will address ethics and professionalism, with a focus on how to discuss, address and promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the trusts and estates practice and with clients. Franklin and the panelists will draw from personal experience and share their unique perspective in dealing with diversity, inclusion and elimination of bias, including ethnic and racial diversity and challenges to those with disabilities.

Effective Speaking and Presenting in Trusts and Estates Law – Terrence Franklin Participates in ABA RPTE Public Speaking Series for Attorneys

Effective public speaking is essential for an attorney to both successfully practice law and to build a law practice. On May 12, 2022, Partner Terrence Franklin will present as a panelist for the webinar “Effective Speaking and Presenting in Trusts and Estates Law,” as part of the American Bar Association’s Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section Special Committee on Career Development & Wellness program series. Franklin will join a panel of “superstars” to pull back the curtain on their processes, wisdom, best practices, tips, and tricks for successful public speaking.

Meg Lodise Elected as Secretary of American College of Trust and Estate Counsel

Partner Meg Lodise has been elected as Secretary of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) with her one-year term beginning at the close of the Annual Meeting on March 13, 2022.

Meg Lodise and Settle Will Contest Alleging Undue Influence

Partner Meg Lodise recently settled a case involving claims the firm’s client unduly influenced his neighbor.

Murder, Tax Evasion and Haute Couture – Meg Lodise Presents at 2022 Wealth Planning Symposium

Partner Meg Lodise is a co-panelist at the 2022 Wealth Planning Symposium hosted by The Northern Trust Institute on April 28, 2022. In the session “Murder, Tax Evasion and Haute Couture,” the experts will dissect the rise and fall of the Gucci fashion empire (as featured in the book The House of Gucci and recent film starring Lady Gaga and Al Pacino).

Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice – Terrence Franklin Presents to Regions Bank Legal Department

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to Regions Bank’s Legal Department on February 24, 2022. Franklin had been a trust and estate litigator, handling disputes including will contests for a quarter century, when he discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his white fourth great-grandfather that emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren from slavery.

The Fight for Justice, Reparations and Bruce’s Beach – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

In 1912, Black entrepreneurs Charles and Willa Bruce purchased a beachfront property in Manhattan Beach, California. “Bruce’s Beach,” which included a dance hall and café, was a favorite destination resort for Black families. In 1927, eminent domain was used by the city of Manhattan Beach to seize the property with the plan to create a park.

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Toward Justice” to Orange County Estate Planning Council

Partner Terrence Franklin had been a trust and estate litigator, handling disputes including will contests for a quarter century, when he discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his white fourth great-grandfather that emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren from slavery.

Five Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Attorneys Selected as 2022 Southern California Super Lawyers

Partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey, Bob Sacks and Of Counsel Ken Glazier have been selected for inclusion on the Southern California Super Lawyers 2022 list for their work in the area of Estate and Trust Litigation. Meg has also been selected to the “Top 50 Women” list for the twelfth consecutive year.

Mentoring Young Lawyers and the Impact of Affinity Bars – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

In celebration of National Mentoring Month, the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) offered a discussion between two successful trust and estate lawyers about the impact mentors had on their careers, and professional recommendations to young lawyers in Mentoring Young Lawyers and the Impact of Affinity Bars, part of the organization’s monthly video series, Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future.

LA Times Features Terrence Franklin as a “Leader in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Partner Terrence Franklin has been recognized as a “Leader in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility” by the Los Angeles Times. The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) feature highlighted some of the most prominent game-changers and their achievements within their respective businesses. Franklin was profiled for his widespread efforts and impact in the DEIA space, including leading efforts on behalf of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) in 2020 to adopt a statement condemning racism following the killing of George Floyd and the attendant civil unrest.

Recognizing Religious Diversity While Advising End-of-Year Gifting – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

One-third of all annual giving occurs in December, and trust and estate professionals are well aware of the tax reasons for the month’s donation popularity, but the end of the year also coincides with faith-based giving. As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terrence Franklin was joined by ACTEC Fellows Amy B. Beller, Raymond C. Odom, and Jonathan J. Rikoon to discuss the impact of Christianity, Judaism and Islam faiths on end-of-year giving. They offer an overview of gifting within all three religions, context from scripture, and how to respect religious diversity when advising clients.

Partner Terrence Franklin Interviewed on Lawyers Who Care Podcast

On the Lawyers Who Care podcast, Partner Terrence Franklin shared how he became a trusts and estates litigator, as well as his story of uncovering a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his white, fourth great-grandfather which emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren. This discovery led Franklin to define his life’s mission, “To Bend the Arc of History Towards Justice” by sharing the story of his ancestors and other stories like them. read more.

Terrence Franklin Interviewed on California Lawyers Association “Trust Me” Trusts & Estates Podcast

Partner Terrence Franklin was a guest on the California Lawyers Association Trusts & Estates Section podcast “Trust Me,” where he shared his story, “John Sutton’s Will: Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice in the Probate Court.” Franklin discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his fourth great-grandfather and emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother, Lucy Sutton, and her children and grandchildren. read more.

Legal Options for Individuals with Special Needs and Disabilities – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

Since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990, society has pivoted to support and empower individuals with special needs and disabilities. Today, there are more opportunities for families and individuals with disabilities to live as independently as possible, and there are multiple legal options available. read more.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Named to Best Law Firms 2022 List by U.S. News & World Report – Best Lawyers

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, has once again been ranked by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® on the “Best Law Firms” list in Los Angeles and nationally for the firm’s work in Trusts & Estates Litigation. read more.

Meg Lodise Ranked in Benchmark Litigation 2022 Guide of Leading Lawyers

For the third consecutive year, partner Meg Lodise was recognized as a “Litigation Star” and “Local Litigation Star” by Benchmark Litigation for her work in trusts and estates litigation. read more.

Heirs Property and Generational Land Loss – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

In the prior ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity video, Black Farmers, Land Loss and the Racial Economic Gap, the series discussed the historical and economic impact of discrimination on black farmers and the particular issues read more.

Black Farmers, Land Loss and the Racial Economic Gap – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terrence Franklin interviewed author Natalie Baszile regarding her latest book “We Are Each Other’s Harvest.” read more.

Probate Law and Generational Discoveries – Terrence Franklin Speaks at ALI-CLE Representing Estate and Trust Beneficiaries and Fiduciaries 2021

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Probate Law and Generational Discoveries” at the Representing Estate and Trust Beneficiaries and Fiduciaries 2021 virtual program, hosted by American Law Institute Continuing Legal Education (ALI CLE) on October 29, 2021. read more.

Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise Featured in LA Times Business of Law: Visionaries

Partners Meg Lodise and Terrence Franklin were recognized in the Los Angeles Times Business of Law feature as visionaries for their contributions and leadership within the firm, the legal field, and the community at large. read more.

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” at Association for the Study of African American Life and History’s 106^th Annual Conference

Partner Terrence Franklin will be presenting “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice: Lucy Sutton Leads Her Family to Freedom” at the Association for the Study of African American Life and History’s 106^th Annual Meeting and Virtual Conference on September 23, 2021.

Franklin was inspired by the 100th birthday of his great aunt, a community leader and spouse of a Tuskegee Airman, to search for the last will and testament that freed their family from slavery. When Franklin located the will, which freed his fourth great-grandmother Lucy and her eight children and six grandchildren, Franklin also discovered that his decades of training as a trusts and estate litigator, had mystically prepared him to understand the court records that revealed that a white ancestor fought in court to keep the family beaten and enslaved. That discovery, in turn, led Franklin to understand his mission, “To Bend the Arc of History Towards Justice” by sharing his family’s story and others like it, as widely as possible. read more.

**Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Partners Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022**

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, partners Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey and Bob Sacks were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022 for their work in trusts and estates litigation. read more.

Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice in the Probate Court – Terrence Franklin Speaks to Knoxville Estate Planning Council

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice in the Probate Court” to the Knoxville Estate Planning Council on November 17, 2021.

Franklin discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his fourth great-grandfather that emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren. In this program, Franklin recounts the enthralling story of his ancestor Lucy Sutton and her fight in the courts to uphold the last will and testament, and he also profiles several other black women, contemporaries of Lucy, who just may have helped Lucy and her family make it to freedom. read more.

Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice in the Probate Court – Terrence Franklin Speaks to East Bay Trusts and Estates Lawyers

Partner Terrence Franklin is presenting “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice in the Probate Court” at the East Bay Trusts and Estates Lawyers (EBTEL) Annual Luncheon on November 4, 2021.

40 Acres and a Mule: Reparations and the Estate Tax – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

During a national meeting of The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) in March 2021, an idea began to take form – Reparations for Slavery though the Estate Tax. Two ACTEC Fellows, Sarah Moore Johnson and Raymond C. Odom, began their collaboration through research to better understand the history of slavery, post-slavery US history, reparations and the wealth gap. read more.

Touching the Third Rail: Diversity, Culture and Ethics in Estate Planning – Meg Lodise Speaks to Financial & Estate Planning Council of Metropolitan Detroit

Partner Meg Lodise is speaking on the panel “Touching the Third Rail: Diversity, Culture and Ethics in Estate Planning” at the Financial & Estate Planning Council of Metropolitan Detroit Annual Meeting on November 10, 2021. read more.

Meg Lodise Presents on “Diversity, Culture and Ethics in Estate Planning” at 66th Annual Estate Planning Seminar

Partner Meg Lodise is speaking on the panel “Touching the Third Rail: Diversity, Culture and Ethics in Estate Planning,” at the 66^th Annual Estate Planning Seminar hosted by the University of Washington and the Estate Planning Council of Seattle.Estate Planning Council of Seattle. read more.

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Again Recognized as a Leading Law Firm for High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes by Chambers and Partners

Four attorneys named as Notable Practitioners
Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, has once again been named a top law firm for High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes by Chambers and Partners. The firm received a Band 1 designation in California, the highest ranking by the legal guide. Chambers recognizes firms based on technical legal…read more

Terrence Franklin & Meg Lodise Again Named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s “Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys” List

Partners Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise were featured for the second consecutive year as “Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys,” published by Los Angeles Business Journal in recognition of the region’s most outstanding litigators…read more

Gender Inequality in the Legal Profession – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terrence Franklin provided opening remarks for “Gender Inequality in the Legal Profession” featuring Fellows Gail E. Mautner, Nina B. Stryker, Jennifer F. Hillman and moderator Amy B. Beller. The panel addressed whether there is still an income disparity between men and women in the legal profession as well as their thoughts and related research regarding gender issues in estate planning and litigation…read more

The Importance of Cultural Competence in Estate Planning – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terrence Franklin provided opening remarks for “The Importance of Cultural Competence in Estate Planning” featuring Fellows Hung Nguyen and Akane Suzuki. Nguyen and Suzuki discuss the differences between cultural sensitivity and cultural competence from the viewpoint of Asian American attorneys and explain why these skills are essential elements of effective estate planning. They also provide practical guidance as to how attorneys may best address sensitive cultural topics…read more

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to the Harvard – Radcliffe Circle ‘90 Alumni Group

Partner Terrence Franklin presented “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to the Harvard – Radcliffe Circle ’90 Alumni Group on June 24, 2021. Franklin discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his fourth great-grandfather that emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren. In this program, Franklin recounts the enthralling story of his ancestor Lucy Sutton and her fight in the courts to uphold the last will and testament, and he also profiles several other black women, contemporaries of Lucy, who just may have helped Lucy and her family…read more

Terrence Franklin Recognized with Chambers and Partners Diversity & Inclusion Lifetime Achievement Award

LOS ANGELES (June 17, 2021) – Terrence Franklin, Partner at Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP,, has received the prestigious “Lifetime Achievement Award” from Chambers and Partners as part of the 2021 Diversity & Inclusion Awards: North America. As the sole recipient of the 2021 award, Franklin was honored for his extensive efforts and accomplishments in furthering the advancement of diversity and inclusion in the legal community. Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards were announced during a virtual ceremony on June 17; view Franklin’s acceptance speech here.

Matt McMurtrey Appointed as Chair of California Lawyers Association’s Trusts and Estates Executive Committee

Partner Matt McMurtrey has been appointed as Chair of the California Lawyers Association’s Trusts and Estates Executive Committee… read more

**Ryan Houck Named to Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2021 List**

Of Counsel Ryan Houck has been selected to the 2021 Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars list for his work in Estate & Trust Litigation. This marks Houck’s sixth year being named a Rising Star… read more

ACTEC’S 2016-2018 Young Leaders Class Elected to Fellowship – Terry Franklin Spearheaded Establishment of Young Leaders Program for Development of Potential Fellows and to Promote Diversity & Inclusivity

The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel announced that the entire 2016-2018 class of Dennis I. Belcher Young Leaders has been elected as Fellows. This demonstrates the program’s success to foster scholarship and education in trust… read more

How to Increase Diversity in the Legal Profession – Terry Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

What can we do to increase diversity in the law and trust and estate profession? Partner Terry Franklin hosted The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) video… read more

Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice in the Probate Court – Terry Franklin Speaks to Beverly Hills Bar Association Trusts & Estates Section

Partner Terry Franklin is presenting his riveting talk “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice in the Probate Court” to the Beverly Hills Bar Association Trusts & Estates Section on June 15… read more

“Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” – Terry Franklin Speaks to Fiduciary Trust International’s Young Lawyers Program

Partner Terry Franklin discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his fourth great-grandfather that emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren… read more

Terry Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to the Los Angeles Paralegal Association

Partner Terry Franklin is presenting “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to the Los Angeles Paralegal Association (LAPA) on April 27, 2021… read more

Terry Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to Harvard Law Society of Illinois

Terry Franklin had been a trust and estate litigator, handling disputes including will contests for a quarter century, when he discovered a will contest from the 1840s that challenged the will done by his white fourth great-grandfather that emancipated Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren from slavery… read more

Terry Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to Probate Attorneys of San Diego

Partner Terry Franklin is sharing his inspiring presentation about his ancestors who were emancipated from slavery through a will, during the Probate Attorneys of San Diego’s webinar luncheon on March 17, 2021… read more

Terry Franklin Interviewed on Are You Hiring? Podcast Discussing “The Last Will of Lucy Sutton”

Partner Terry Franklin was a guest on the podcast Are You Hiring?, discussing authoring a memoir about the legacy of his ancestors and how he is “bending the arc of history towards justice.” Franklin’s fourth great-grandmother.… read more

Meg Lodise Discusses “Diversity, Culture and Ethics in Estate Planning” at 55th Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning

Partner Meg Lodise is speaking on the virtual panel “Touching the Third Rail: Diversity, Culture and Ethics in Estate Planning” at the 55th Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning being held May 4, 2021.… read more

Meg Lodise Speaks on ACTEC Panel “Introducing Trust Protectors: What’s Puzzling You is the Nature of Their Game”

Partner Meg Lodise is moderating and speaking on the panel “Introducing Trust Protectors: What’s Puzzling You is the Nature of Their Game” at the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) virtual national meeting on March 9, 2021.… read more

Terry Franklin Named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Most Influential Minority Attorneys List for Third Consecutive Year

Partner Terry Franklin has once again been selected to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Minority Leaders of Influence: Attorneys list for 2021. Los Angeles Business Journal recognized those attorneys who are considered to be particularly impactful on the legal scene, while serving as trusted advisors, along with maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.… read more

Terry Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to Harvard Club of Southern California’s Anti-Racism Committee & Harvard Black Alumni Society LA Chapter

February 2020, Partner Terry Franklin presented to the Harvard Club of Southern California and the Harvard Black Alumni Society LA Chapter, his riveting story of his ancestor Lucy Sutton and her fight in the courts to uphold the last will and testament of her owner, who was also the father of her children, that set her and their children free… read more

Terry Franklin Presents “The Last Will of Lucy Sutton” to BNY Mellon Wealth Management

In celebration of Black History Month, Partner Terry Franklinwill share his amazing personal journey researching and discovering the details of a lawsuit involving the emancipation of his fourth great-grandmother and her children and grandchildren to BNY Mellon Wealth Management in a virtual presentation on February 4, 2021… read more

Terry Franklin Hosts ACTEC’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video: Transgender? How to Legally Change Your Name, Gender and Vital Records

As host of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future, Partner Terry Franklin provided opening remarks for “Transgender? How to Legally Change Your Name, Gender and Vital Records” and introduced guests, ACTEC Fellows Cynthia Lamar-Hart and Paula A. Kohut… read more

Five Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Attorneys Selected as 2021 Southern California Super Lawyers

Meg Lodise Named to ”Top 50 Women” List for 11^th Consecutive Year

Partners Terry Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey, Bob Sacks and Of Counsel Ken Glazier have been selected for inclusion on the 2021 Southern California Super Lawyers list for their work in the area of Estate and Trust Litigation. Meg has also been selected for inclusion on the “Top 50 Women” list… read more

Terry Franklin Hosts ACTEC Video Series On the Role of Trusts and Estates in Addressing Issues of Diversity & Inequality in America

Partner Terry Franklin is hosting the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) newly developed video series Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future. The series was created as a project of… read more

Terry Franklin Interviewed on “Career & Life Chats with Andrea” Discussing His Fulfilling Legal Career

Partner Terry Franklin was a guest on “Career & Life Chats with Andrea,” hosted by Andrea Yang, CPC, ELI-MP, JD, a legal career coach. The show shares stories of lawyers on quests to find fulfillment and… read more

Terry Franklin Chairs USC Gould’s 46th Annual Trust and Estate Conference; Speaks on Racial Biases

As Chair of USC Gould’s 46th Annual Trust and Estate Conference, Partner Terry Franklin led the virtual program on November 13, 2020… read more

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Named to U.S. News – Best Lawyers®“Best Law Firms” 2021

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, has once again been ranked by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” in Los Angeles and nationally… read more

Meg Lodise Speaks at USC Trust and Estate Conference 2020

Partner Meg Lodise is participating on the panel “Love in the Time of COVID-19, Trustee and Beneficiary Harmony in Years Like 2020” at the virtual USC Trust and Estate Conference on November 13… read more

Terry Franklin Speaks at Washington, D.C. Estate Planning Council Winter Meeting

Partner Terry Franklin is presenting “The 1846 Last Will of John Sutton: What’s New and Not So New in the World of Drafting Wills, and Contest Litigation” at the Washington, D.C. Estate Planning Council Winter Meeting on February 24, 2021……..read more

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Named to Daily Journal’s “Top Boutiques in California” List

In recognition of the firm’s success in the area of trusts and estates litigation, Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, was featured in Daily Journal’s 2020 list of “Top Boutiques in California.” The article noted that the firm has maintained a narrow focus to best litigate the unique issues that often arise in high-stakes disputes over end-of-life probate concerns……..read more

Terry Franklin Speaks at 65th Annual Estate Planning Seminar

Partner Terry Franklin is presenting “The 1846 Last Will of John Sutton: What’s New and Not So New in the World of Drafting Wills and Contest Litigation” at the 65th Annual Estate Planning Seminar hosted by the Estate Planning Council of Seattle and the University of Washington School of Law……..read more

Meg Lodise Ranked in Benchmark Litigation 2021

For the second consecutive year, partner Meg Lodise was recognized as a “California – Litigation Star” and “Local Litigation Star” by Benchmark Litigation for her work in trusts and estates litigation. “Litigation Stars” are highly regarded by their peers and possess a strong case record……..read more

Terry Franklin “Highly Commended” in Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards 2020

Partner Terry Franklin was “Highly Commended” in the category of “Outstanding Contribution to Furthering the Advancement of Diversity in the Legal Profession” (USA) Private Practice, Individual for the Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards: North America 2020……..read more

Terry Franklin Participates in ABA RPTE Roundtable Discussion on Advancing Diversity & Inclusion in the Legal Profession

Partner Terry Franklin joins notable legal professionals for the roundtable discussion “Better Practices: Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in the Legal Profession,” hosted by theDiversity and Inclusion Committee of the American Bar Association’s Real Property Trusts & Estates Section (RPTE). Panelists will address the following topics and how to have these kind of discussions internally……..read more

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Recognized as a Top Firm for Private Wealth Disputes by Chambers USA

Three partners named as Notable Practitioners

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, has once again been recognized by Chambers and Partners for High Net Worth – Private Wealth Disputes in California, in the Band 1 tier, the highest ranking by the legal guide. Chambers ranks firms based on technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence, commitment and other qualities most valued by clients……..read more

Terry Franklin Champions ACTEC Funded Grant to Support Training & Supervising Newly-Minted Black Attorney to Provide Estate Planning Services for Underserved Communities

As Chair of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Committee, partner Terry Franklin worked with fellow Committee members to request that The ACTEC Foundation approve an emergency request for a grant from The Commons Law Center in North/Northeast Portland, Oregon proposed by University of Oregon Law Professor, Susan Gary. The grant will fund a Black 2020 law school graduate to work in trusts and estates part-time over eight months to allow for the expansion of the Commons’ Homeownership Asset Preservation Program, which helps low income communities and communities of color to obtain essential estate planning services. The hope is that the position will also create a pipeline for other lawyers of color who will serve the African American community and the Oregon Bar in general as practicing estate planning attorneys……..read more

**Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Attorneys Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021**

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, partners Terry Franklin, Meg Lodise, Matt McMurtrey, Bob Sacks, and Of Counsel Ken Glazier were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021 for their work in trusts and estates litigation…….read more

Terry Franklin Leads Process for ACTEC’s Adoption of Statement Condemning Racism

On behalf of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), partner Terry Franklin led efforts for the organization to adopt a Statement Condemning Racism following the killing of George Floyd, and the attendant civil unrest. As Chair of the Diversity and Inclusivity Committee, Franklin initiated the process to generate a Statement making clear ACTEC’s position and commitment to renounce racism in all its forms that could be recommended to the Executive Committee and be approved on behalf of ACTEC. The formulation of the Statement went through extensive vetting, consideration and deliberative input provided by the drafting subcommittee…….read more

Terry Franklin Shortlisted for Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards: North America 2020

For the second consecutive year, partner Terry Franklin has been shortlisted by Chambers and Partners for the Diversity & Inclusion Awards: North America 2020 in the category of “Outstanding Contribution to Furthering the Advancement of Diversity in the Legal Profession.” The awards celebrate the achievements of firms and individuals who play a critical role in advancing diversity and inclusion across the…….read more

Terry Franklin & Meg Lodise Named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s “Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Lawyers” List

Partners Terry Franklin and Meg Lodise were featured as “Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Lawyers,” published by Los Angeles Business Journal in recognition of the region’s most outstanding litigators.
In its editorial, Los Angeles Business Journal noted:
Franklin has developed a reputation as a leading trusts and estates attorney in his 30 years of practice, handling the most complex cases involving significant dollar amounts. Franklin is responsible for several published appeals and the landmark Moeller v. Superior Court case, which was brought before the California Supreme Court and established a fiduciary exception to the attorney-client…….read more

Meg Lodise Presents “Planning for the Probate Contest” at ABA Skills Training for Estate Planners Program

For the second consecutive year, partner Meg Lodise is presenting “Planning for the Probate Contest” at the American Bar Association Skills Training for Estate Planners – Interactive Virtual Experience, being held August 6 – 7, 2020. Lodise and co-panelist Abigail Earthman of Winstead PC will introduce attendees to the essential concepts of probate litigation, including will and trust disputes, contests, and fiduciary litigation…read more

Terry Franklin Joins National Organizing Coalition On Virus Information Distribution

Partner Terry Franklin has been invited to participate in the National Organizing Coalition On Virus Information Distribution (“NOCOVID”), a non-partisan coalition of state and local government leaders, storytellers and entertainers, doctors and pandemic experts, health communicators and data analysts, historians and influencers. The group will communicate to all Americans – where they live, through people…….read more

Meg Lodise Recognized Among the “Top Women Attorneys” by Los Angeles Business Journal

Partner Meg Lodise was selected to Los Angeles Business Journal’s 2020 list of Top Women Attorneys, honoring the city’s most influential women attorneys. Honorees were recognized for exceptional legal skill and achievement across the full spectrum of responsibility, exemplary leadership as evidenced by the highest professional and ethical standards, and for contributions to the Los Angeles community at large…….read more

Matt McMurtrey Selected as Vice-Chair of the California Lawyers Association Trusts and Estates Executive Committee

Partner Matt McMurtrey has been appointed Vice-Chair of the California Lawyers Association Trusts and Estates Executive Committee for the 2020 – 2021 term, which will commence in September 2020. He will automatically become Chair for the 2021 – 2022 term.

The mission of the Trusts and Estates Section is to further the knowledge of practitioners in the areas of trusts and estate laws through educational opportunities, monitor and actively participate in the formation of laws and regulations that impact trusts and estates laws, and represent section members in the governance of the California Lawyers Association. Section membership includes more than 6,000 attorneys with interests….read more

Meg Lodise Concludes Decade-Long Role as Guardian Ad Litem for Michael Jackson’s Children

In 2009, Partner Meg Lodise was appointed by Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff to serve as guardian ad litem for Michael Jackson’s children in the settling of their father’s estate. In this role, she initially advocated for the best interests of the performer’s two sons and daughter due to disputes over Jackson’s affairs, including the resolution of certain contracts proposed by the estate’s Special Administrators, but opposed…….read more

Meg Lodise Appointed as ACTEC Ombudsperson to Oversee Organization’s Code of Conduct

Partner Meg Lodise has been selected as one of three Ombudspersons who will provide the initial response and investigation of any complaint made under the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel’s (ACTEC) newly published Code of Conduct. ACTEC is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all persons (Fellows, guests, sponsors, ACTEC employees and other participants in ACTEC activities)…….read more

Announcements

Los Angeles Times Names Bob Sacks and John Scheerer to Legal Visionaries List

Los Angeles Business Journal Selects Meg Lodise to Women of Influence: Attorneys List

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Terrence Franklin to LA500 List

Meg Lodise Elected President of ACTEC

About ACTEC

Seven SGFLMS Attorneys Named to Southern California Super Lawyers and Rising Stars 2026

Motion Practice: Demurrer, Anti-SLAPP, MSA/MSJ – Matthew McMurtrey Presents at 2026 LACBA Litigation Symposium

Terrence Franklin Presents Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice to Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Ethical Issues When Lawyers Serve as Trustees – John Scheerer Serves as Panelist for ABA CLE Seminar

Los Angeles Business Journal Selects Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys 2026

Best Law Firms Names Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP to 2026 List

Court Upholds Trust Amendment in Favor of SGFLMS Client After Trial

Benchmark Litigation Recognizes Meg Lodise and John Scheerer in 2026 Rankings of Leading U.S. Litigators

Daily Journal Names Terrence Franklin and Bob Sacks to Top Estate & Wealth Management Lawyers 2025 List

SGFLMS Partners Selected to Lawdragon 500 Leading Family Lawyers 2026 for Trusts & Estates Litigation

Terrence Franklin Chairs 51st Annual USC Gould Trust and Estate Conference

Best Lawyers Names Five Partners to 2026 List; Three Associates Recognized as Ones to Watch

Chambers and Partners Recognizes Firm with Band 1 Ranking and Five Individual Attorney Honors

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer Successfully Defends Multibillion-Dollar Claim Against Barron Hilton Trust

Bob Sacks and Antonieta Pimienta Lefebvre Secure Complete Victory in Family Trust Dispute Including Elder Abuse Claims

Meg Lodise Named to Los Angeles Business Journal Women of Influence: Attorneys List

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Announces Name Change toSacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP

Los Angeles Times Names Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise to Business of Law: Legal Visionaries 2025

Covering Your Assets: Tools for Safeguarding Trustee Decision Making – John Scheerer Presents at ABA RPTE 37th Annual CLE Conference

Cultural Competence in Estate Planning – Terrence Franklin Presents at ACTEC 2025 Annual Meeting

Eight Attorneys named to Southern California Super Lawyers and Rising Stars 2025 Lists

Los Angeles Business Journal Selects Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys 2025

Resolving Contested Trusts and Estates – Related Fiduciary Matters Without Litigation – John Scheerer Authors Thomson Reuters Practical Law Trusts & Estates Article

Seven Deadly Trust and Estate Claims – Terrence Franklin Speaks at ABA RPTE Law Section Virtual CLE Conference

How Typical Trust Agreements Clauses Can Get Turned Around in the Real World – Meg Lodise Interviewed on ACTEC Trust & Estate Talk Podcast

Terrence Franklin Chairs USC Gould School of Law 50th Annual Trust and Estate Conference

Los Angeles Times Names Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise to Legal Visionaries 2024

Impact of NCBE Dropping Wills & Trusts from the Next Gen Bar Exam – Meg Lodise Authors Daily Journal Article

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Named to Best Law Firms 2025 List

Los Angeles Times Recognizes Terrence Franklin as a DEIA Visionary

Four Partners Named to Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers List for Probate Litigation

Meg Lodise Presents at ACTEC 2024 Fall Meeting

Benchmark Litigation Ranks Meg Lodise as a “Litigation Star” in 2025 Guide

Los Angeles Times B2B Recognizes Meg Lodise as a Shortlisted Nominee for Inspirational Women Forum and Leadership Awards 2024

Terrence Franklin Speaks at Harvard Black Alumni Global Changemakers Conference

John Scheerer Appointed as ABA RPTE Vice-Chair – Professional Responsibility

Terrence Franklin Serves as Keynote Speaker at SBCBA Probate Symposium 2024

Best Lawyers Names Five Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Partners to 2025 List

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Achieves Top Rankings by Chambers and Partners for High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Meg Lodise and Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys 2024

Clients with Diminished Capacity: Facts, Strategies & Ethics – Meg Lodise and Michele Nielsen Present CEB California CLE Program

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Meg Lodise to Women of Influence: Attorneys List

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History Towards Justice” to Rose Community Foundation

Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Video: The Origin of “Grandfathered” and the “Grandfather Clause”

Terrence Franklin Selected to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Top 100 Lawyers List

Terrence Franklin Speaks on Mission of Bet Tzedek Postgraduate Fellowship for Racial Equity in Trust & Estate Law at “Leaving a Legacy” Event

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Terrence Franklin a Finalist in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards 2024

The Racial Will-Making Gap and Efforts to Close It – Terrence Franklin Speaks at Boston College Law School’s 2024 ILHPR Conference

Seven Deadly Trust & Estate Claims – Terrence Franklin Speaks at ACTEC 2024 Annual Meeting

Terrence Franklin Presents “Bending the Arc of History” to UB Greensfelder

Ensuring Justice and Equity in Estate Planning for Seniors – Terrence Franklin Speaks at Bet Tzedek Rebecca Nichols Symposium

Tiffany Sarchet Serves as a Coach for UCLA Law’s Mock Trial Team

Four Attorneys Named to Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2024 List

Los Angeles Business Journal Selects Terrence Franklin to Leaders of Influence: Minority Attorneys 2024 List

Four Partners Selected to Southern California Super Lawyers 2024Meg Lodise Named to Top 100 and Top 50 Women Lists; Terrence Franklin Recognized on Top 100 List

Terrence Franklin Presents DEI Keynote at New Jersey State Bar 2023 Elder and Disability Law Symposium

Litigation Associate Michele Nielsen Joins Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP LLP

Los Angeles Times Names Terrence Franklin to DEIA Visionaries 2023 List

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Ranked a Tier 1 “Best Law Firm” by Best Lawyers®

Business Today Names Terrence Franklin, Meg Lodise and Bob Sacks to Top 10 Influential California Lawyers in Private Wealth Disputes

Benchmark Litigation Ranks Meg Lodise as a “Litigation Star” in 2024 Guide

Terrence Franklin Serves as Conference Chair for USC Gould School of Law 49th Annual Trust & Estate Conference

How to Protect Your Charity – Meg Lodise Speaks at Hawaii Tax Institute 60th Annual Conference

John Scheerer Appointed Member at Large of the Beverly Hills Estate Planning Council

Best Lawyers Names Five Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Partners to 2024 List

Meg Lodise Named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys 2023 List

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Maintains Tier 1 Ranking by Chambers and Partners for High-Net-Worth Private Wealth Disputes – Four Partners Individually Recognized

Blind Success: Hiring Visually Impaired and Disabled Lawyers – Terrence Franklin Hosts ACTEC Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Video

Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise Named Los Angeles Times Business of Law: Legal Visionaries

Partner John Scheerer and Tonie Pimienta Lefebvre Selected to Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2023

Los Angeles Business Journal Names Meg Lodise to Top 100 Lawyers List for 2023

Los Angeles Business Journal Recognizes Meg Lodise on Women of Influence: Attorneys 2023 List

Terrence Franklin Serves as Keynote Speaker at Bet Tzedek 7th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Symposium

Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Announces Name Change to
Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP

Covering Your Assets: Tools for Safeguarding Trustee Decision Making – John Scheerer Presents at ABA RPTE 37th Annual CLE Conference

**Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Achieves Top Rankings by Chambers and Partners for High Net Worth Private Wealth Disputes**

Four Partners Selected to Southern California Super Lawyers 2024
Meg Lodise Named to Top 100 and Top 50 Women Lists; Terrence Franklin Recognized on Top 100 List

**Meg Lodise Named to Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Litigators & Trial Attorneys 2023 List**

**Sacks, Glazier, Franklin, Lodise, McMurtrey & Scheerer, LLP, Maintains Tier 1 Ranking by Chambers and Partners for High-Net-Worth Private Wealth Disputes – Four Partners Individually Recognized**

**Terrence Franklin and Meg Lodise Named Los Angeles Times Business of Law: Legal Visionaries**