Academy Summits are always exciting! It was great to see so many friends and make new ones. In addition to the traditional Academy Summit, which started last Thursday and went through Sunday, I presented an optional training, “Core I.”

Core I provides an in depth look at estate planning tax concepts. We went through estate and gift tax and the relevant income tax concepts, like step-up in basis and grantor trusts. I find it interesting how many questions I get on a daily basis from seasoned practitioners on “basic” issues. When does a power of appointment cause inclusion in the estate of a grantor? When is a gift complete? What is a grantor trust?

Core I is a great learning experience for newer practitioners and a wonderful refresher for more seasoned attorneys. It is a relaxing environment where questions are encouraged. We keep the class size small to facilitate this learning environment. It was a fun course with a great group of people.

Core I was a great wrap-up to an incredible event!

Stephen C. Hartnett, J.D., LL.M.
Associate Director of Education
American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, Inc.
9444 Balboa Avenue, Suite 300
San Diego, California 92123
Phone: (800) 846-1555
www.aaepa.com