"As a trust and estate litigator and partner at Trust Law Partners, I've
spent over two decades navigating complex inheritance disputes. Yet
Michael Hackard's 'Inheritance Heists' offers fresh insights even for
seasoned practitioners. Drawing from five decades in the field,
Hackard masterfully dissects contemporary challenges - from care-
giver exploitation to cryptocurrency theft - while providing practical
solutions. His innovative analysis of contingency fee arrangements is
particularly valuable. What sets this work apart is Hackard's deep
understanding of both the legal and emotional dynamics of inheritance
disputes. An essential resource for anyone practicing in California's
estate litigation landscape."
Jeï¬ Loew, Partner, Trust Law Partners, California
"I serve the court in matters of estate and civil litigation when acts of
fraud, waste, and undue influence are so egregious it rises to the neces-
sity to have an independent fiduciary take full possession and control
of assets, including real property, investment accounts, and businesses.
My role is sometimes referred to as the "nuclear option" to protect and
preserve the Estate until the litigation is resolved. In my world, every-
thing that can go wrong does go wrong. That is why I implore people
to take notice and learn from the real examples and exceptionally
knowledgeable advice Mike shares in this book. I have worked with
Mike on litigation matters over the years and what I most appreciate is
Hackard Law offers people who cannot afford to hire legal services an
opportunity to pursue their equitable rights to receive what was
denied to them by bad actors with skilled and effective practices in
law."
Daniel Collins, Court Appointed Receiver, Collins Commercial
"Inheritance Heists by Michael Hackard explores the complex world of
estate and trust litigation. The book reveals how family legacies can be
undermined by manipulation, undue influence, and deception.
Hackard, a veteran attorney, uses real-world case studies to expose
inheritance challenges, including trust distribution disasters, caregiver
exploitation, and family conflicts. The book introduces Hackard Law's
innovative contingency fee model, which expands access to justice for
families fighting inheritance injustices. By examining biblical principles
of truthfulness and ethical behavior, Hackard provides practical strate-
gies to families and professionals for preventing and resolving inheri-
tance disputes, emphasizing the importance of communication,
transparency, and protecting family legacies. As an example, I have
seen the calming effect I can bring to contentious family dynamics
because I am an independent third party fiduciary with no involve-
ment in the family history or drama."
John DePiazza, Fiduciary, AD Fiduciary