What Does This Mean for Limited Partners, LLPs, and LLCs? In Part 1, we covered the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit’s decision in Sirius Solutions, LLLP v. Commissioner and the Fifth Circuit’s reasoning for siding with taxpayers over...
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Latest News from W. Patrick Norwood
Fifth Circuit’s Decision is “Sirius” Business: A Texas-Sized Win for Limited Partners (and a Headache for the IRS) – Part 1
The Big Picture: Why Sirius Solutions v. Commissioner Matters Let’s cut to the chase: the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit’s recent decision in Sirius Solutions, LLLP v. Commissioner is a game-changer for anyone who owns a piece of a...
When a Fiduciary Fails to Act: Beneficiary Options
Trusts are designed to protect assets, honor legacies, and provide for loved ones. But what happens when the person entrusted to manage those assets—the trustee—fails to act? Whether it’s ignoring a reimbursement claim, failing to pursue a legal...
When a Trustee Fails to Act: Trust Claims, Legal Duties, and the Unspoken Personal Liability of Trustees
In the administration of trusts, trustees are often called upon to make difficult decisions. One of the most consequential, and often overlooked, is the duty to pursue claims on behalf of the trust. Whether those claims involve reimbursement,...
Bridging Continents: Reflections from the DFW India Chamber of Commerce Banquet
I and others from Shields Legal recently had the privilege of attending the DFW India Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet—a gathering that was far more than a celebration of business excellence. It was a testament to the enduring ties between...
2025 Texas Estate and Trust Legislative Update: What You Need to Know
The 89th Texas Legislative Session delivered a series of targeted updates to estate, trust, and guardianship law. While not revolutionary, these changes are practical, strategic, and impactful for estate planners, fiduciaries, and families...
“One Big Beautiful Bill” UPDATE & High-Earner Haircuts
As the heat of the Big Beautiful Bill, simmers from its boiling passage, its immediate successes must be noted. Republicans did much of what they set out to do; they passed a single bill close to their self-imposed deadline that permanentized the...
Bullish on Texas: Reflections from Pearson Partners’ Spotlight Series Breakfast
At Pearson Partners International’s latest Spotlight Series Breakfast, held on June 10 at the Park City Club in Dallas, business leaders, legal experts, academics, and public affairs professionals came together to discuss “Strategic Agility:...
Turning Market Downturns Into Gifting Opportunities: Why Now May Be the Perfect Time to Transfer Wealth
Imagine any of the following scenarios: (1) the markets take a tumble, and your portfolio is down; (2) a sector your business operates in or around has experienced a significant downturn; or (3) the world’s immediate economic forecast is uncertain....
Tax and Estate Planning Essentials: Critical Differences in Revocable and Irrevocable Trust Structures
High net wealth individuals frequently use trust structures in their estate planning to avoid the complications of probate for their loved ones after they pass. Trusts also offer a strategic advantage in addressing estate and gift tax issues....
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