Ian MacLean

Professional Background

Ian MacLean is a distinguished legal professional with extensive experience in various facets of estate law, probate administration, and litigation. As the Managing Attorney at The MacLean Law Firm, P.C., Ian leads a team dedicated to representing and counseling clients in contested probate cases, estate and trust litigation, and comprehensive estate planning. His practice areas cover a wide array of legal services including guardianship, asset protection, and tax planning, making him a vital resource for clients seeking clarity, guidance, and effective solutions in complex legal matters.

Ian’s approach stands out in the legal community as he emphasizes aggressive advocacy for beneficiaries, trustees, and executors involved in contested probate actions. His expertise spans discovery processes, contested accountings, and litigation strategies aimed at protecting clients’ interests throughout the legal proceedings. Ian’s commitment to making the law understandable to his clients resonates through his goal-oriented tactics and detailed knowledge of the adversaries’ arguments. By leveraging a strategic, well-informed approach, Ian ensures that his clients receive not only the best legal representation but also peace of mind during challenging times.

Beyond litigation, Ian excels in uncontested probate matters, where he adeptly handles estate administration and various forms of tax planning. His comprehensive service portfolio extends to postmortem estate tax considerations, gift tax, GST tax, and fiduciary income tax planning, empowering clients to make informed decisions about their estates.

Education and Achievements

Ian MacLean’s robust educational background underscores his credibility as a legal expert. He obtained his LL.M. in Taxation at New York University School of Law, focusing on tax law’s nuances, which is pivotal to his current practice involving complex estate planning and tax strategies. Additionally, Ian earned his Juris Doctor, JD, cum laude, from New York Law School, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in his legal education.

Before diving into law, Ian pursued his undergraduate studies at Saint Lawrence University, where he graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in History and US Foreign Policy. This foundational knowledge of history and policy intricacies complements his legal skills, helping him to navigate the multifaceted issues that often arise in estate law.

Achievements

Ian's career trajectory includes several prominent positions that highlight his expertise and leadership in the legal field. He served as an Attorney at Slade & Newman, LLP, where he honed his skills in estate and trust litigation. His tenure as a Senior Trust Officer at New York Life Insurance Trust Company and as a Trust Officer at Morgan Stanley Trust Company further enriched his professional background, enabling him to gain insight into the fiduciary responsibilities that play a critical role in trust administration.

Through his varied experiences across reputable law firms, including Graubard Mollen et al., Ian has cultivated a depth of knowledge that significantly contributes to his current role at The MacLean Law Firm. His team's collaborative approach further enhances client service, as Ian frequently coordinates with clients' financial, accounting, and insurance professionals to tailor comprehensive solutions that safeguard clients' best interests.

By establishing a practice that values understanding, detailed guidance, and proactive strategies, Ian MacLean continues to make a significant impact in the field of estate law. His clients can rely on his expertise for a variety of services including estate planning, asset protection, business succession planning, and more. Ian is committed to improving his clients' lives through comprehensive legal services and strategic insight.