N. Lucille “Lucy” Siler

Each family is different, because it is composed of the individuals within that family. As an estate planner I, like many others, am well versed in the various strategies available. What I most enjoy is getting to know my clients and their goals, to understand the dynamics within their families, and then to utilize those strategies best suited to achieving that client’s desired result.

Lucy Siler handles sophisticated estate planning and administration for wealthy individuals and families, many of whom have built or inherited a closely-held company. Frequently referred by their lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or by another of Lucy’s clients, she has the experience and skill to adeptly surmise the situation and develop a going-forward strategy and plan that will reduce tax liabilities, address practical issues such as control and cash flow, and minimize family conflicts, while achieving the client’s desired legacy. With a primary focus on estate administration, Lucy has extensive experience guiding families and executors not only through the legal and tax issues that arise upon the death of an individual, but also the sometimes strained family dynamics that exist at an emotionally charged time. Lucy works closely with entrepreneurial clients who have horizon concerns, such as a generational shift in the ownership of a family business. For example, Lucy helps them identify and plan for a successor inside or outside the family to keep the business running or determine whether a sale to an outsider will bring the greatest value. In addition, advising coming-of-age children of clients on wealth preservation, asset protection, and their parents’ spirit of philanthropy and charitable giving are all important components of the value Lucy brings to these families. To Lucy, estate planning and administration aren’t just numbers on a piece of paper – they protect and propel families into a secure future. Working with children who have lost a parent, a suddenly-single individual whose spouse has died or divorced, or a son or daughter who had to be untangled from poor investments made by their parents, Lucy has the compassion to understand their circumstances – and the clarity to know what solutions will resolve the problems as efficiently as possible. Chairing Johnston Allison & Hord’s Trusts and Estates practice, one of the largest and most prominent in North Carolina, Lucy is committed to successful business management and succession planning inside the firm as well as outside as she works with her clients’ families and companies.