Austin Achieves Accredited Trust & Fiduciary Advisor Designation, Further Solidifying Expertise
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Austin, a seasoned attorney and Certified Trust & financial Advisor (CTFA®), has achieved the Accredited Trust & Fiduciary Advisor (ATFA) designation in 2024. awarded by Campbell University and the Trust Education Foundation, this accreditation highlights Austin’s dedication to excellence in trust and fiduciary services. With over 20 years of experience, Austin brings extensive knowledge to his practice, focusing on advanced estate planning and asset protection techniques. His background includes serving as Vice President and compliance counsel for the private wealth division of SunTrust Bank from 2014 to 2018, providing him with unique insights into the financial industry.
Austin’s legal practice encompasses a wide range of critical areas, including probate and trust management, fiduciary litigation, guardianships, charitable organizations, and corporate law. His corporate law expertise centers on general business matters and succession planning,offering clients thorough legal support for their diverse needs.
Austin’s Extensive Background and Accomplishments
Austin’s qualifications extend far beyond his recent ATFA accreditation. He holds degrees from multiple institutions within Campbell University and North Carolina State University. He graduated from the Norman A.Wiggins School of Law at Campbell University with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) in 2002 and also earned a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from the Lundy-Fetterman School of Business at Campbell University in the same year. His academic foundation began with a Bachelor of Science in Business management and Corporate Finance from North Carolina State University’s poole college of Management in 1998.
his commitment to professional advancement is evident through his certifications and affiliations. He became a Certified Trust & Financial Advisor® in 2018, accredited by the American Bankers Association, demonstrating his dedication to upholding the highest standards in financial advisory services.
Austin is admitted to practice before several prestigious courts, including:
- The Bars of the Supreme Court of the United States (2006)
- United States Tax Court (2004)
- United States Court of Federal Claims (2021)
- Federal District Courts for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of North Carolina (2007)
Further enhancing his credentials, Austin is a graduate of the American Bankers Association Trust School (2018). He also contributes to the education of future professionals as a faculty member of the Southeastern Trust School at Campbell University and as an Adjunct Professor in the Masters of Trust & wealth Management program at the lundy-Fetterman school of Business at Campbell University.
austin is actively involved in the legal community, holding leadership positions within the Moore County Bar association, where he served as Vice President in 2023 and is serving as President in 2024 and 2025. He also holds the position of Vice President (2024) of the 29th Judicial District Bar.
He is a member of the North Carolina Bar Association, participating in the Business Law, Elder Law, and Estate Planning Sections.Austin has also authored numerous white papers on estate planning and small business topics, showcasing his expertise and thought leadership in these areas.
His community involvement extends to serving as a member of the First Health Foundation Center Professional Advisory Council in Pinehurst, NC, and as a member of the Delta Theta Phi law Fraternity International. He is a Continuing Education Lecturer on the topics of Estate Planning and Asset Protection,sharing his knowledge with other professionals.
Austin’s commitment to service is further demonstrated by his role as a member of the Board of Directors for Boys and girls Homes of North Carolina children’s Foundation, Inc.,and as a Vestry Member and Treasurer of Christ church Anglican in Southern Pines,NC.
Having grown up primarily in Raleigh, Austin is originally from Southern Pines.His personal interests include genealogy, tracing his family history back to the 1500s. He is also an avid outdoorsman and enjoys working on classic British motorcars.His memberships include the british Automobile Touring Society, Carolina Jaguar Club, and the Moore County Bar Association Sporting Clays Team. Austin resides in Pinebluff with his two teenaged sons and is a member of Christ church Anglican in Southern Pines.
Areas of Expertise
Austin concentrates his practice in several key areas:
- Advanced Estate Planning
- Asset Protection Techniques
- Probate and Trust Administration
- Fiduciary Litigation
- Guardianships
- Charitable Organizations
- Corporate law (General Business Matters and Succession Planning)
Austin’s multifaceted background, encompassing legal expertise, financial acumen, and community involvement, positions him as a trusted advisor for individuals and businesses alike. His recent attainment of the Accredited Trust & Fiduciary Advisor designation further solidifies his commitment to providing the highest level of service and expertise to his clients.
unveiling the Secrets of Trust & Fiduciary Expertise: An Exclusive Interview
The complexities of estate planning and asset protection frequently enough require specialized expertise beyond traditional legal counsel. This interview delves into the world of Accredited Trust & Fiduciary Advisors (ATFAs), exploring the critical role they play in safeguarding wealth and legacies.
Senior Editor (SE): Welcome, Mr. Davies, a leading expert in trust and fiduciary law. Austin’s recent ATFA designation has captured notable attention. Can you explain the importance of this credential and what it signifies for clients seeking sophisticated wealth management solutions?
Mr. Davies (MD): “The ATFA designation is indeed a significant achievement, representing a high level of specialized knowledge and experience in trust and fiduciary services. It distinguishes professionals who have demonstrated proficiency in the intricacies of estate planning, asset protection, and wealth preservation strategies. For clients, it signifies they are working with an expertly trained professional capable of navigating the complexities of trust law and fiduciary responsibilities. Obtaining this credential requires extensive study, rigorous examinations, and a demonstrable commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards.This assures clients of a level of competence that surpasses basic legal compliance. It’s a guarantee of expertise in handling everything from complex wealth transfers to charitable giving strategies.”
SE: Austin’s background is remarkably diverse. His experience includes corporate law, probate, and even a stint at SunTrust Bank. How do these seemingly disparate areas of expertise contribute to his effectiveness as an ATFA?
MD: “You’ve hit a critical point. Austin’s diverse background isn’t just a collection of unrelated experiences; it’s a synergistic blend of skills ideally suited to the holistic approach required in high-net-worth estate planning. His corporate law experience equips him to understand the intricacies of business succession planning, ensuring smooth transitions for family-owned businesses. His time at SunTrust Bank provided invaluable insights into the financial industry, enhancing his understanding of investment strategies and risk management, critical in asset protection. his probate experience is absolutely essential for the execution of estate plans, ensuring seamless and compliant management of assets after a client’s passing. This demonstrates to his clientele a uniquely well-rounded experience that enables him to serve them at a much higher level. It’s also highly relevant to the ever-increasing demands for integrated financial and legal advice for today’s clients.”
SE: The article highlights Austin’s involvement in various leadership roles within the legal community and his contributions as an educator. How do these activities bolster his credibility and enhance the client experience?
MD: “Active participation in professional organizations and educational initiatives substantially enhances a professional’s credibility. This reflects a commitment to continued learning, professional advancement, and networking within the industry. Serving in leadership positions showcases Austin’s reputation and respect among his peers.His role as an educator demonstrates his commitment to fostering the next generation of trust and fiduciary professionals,further solidifying his dedication to the field.”
SE: What are some key considerations for individuals seeking an ATFA or similar qualified professional to manage their wealth and estate?
MD: “When choosing a professional for complex estate planning and wealth management, consider these factors:
Credentials and Certifications: Confirm their credentials and experience. Look for designations such as ATFA,CTFA,or equivalent certifications.
Experience and Specialization: Ensure both overall experience and specialized knowledge in areas relevant to your needs (e.g., asset protection, family business planning, charitable giving).
Fee structure and clarity: This should be clearly defined in anticipation of future needs.
Client testimonials: These will give you important insights into how others perceive their experience.
Trustworthy and Ethical Conduct: Work with someone whose reputation aligns with your values.”
SE: Could you provide some actionable insights for those beginning to think about advanced estate planning and asset protection?
MD: “Planning is crucial, and it’s never too early to start! Begin with a complete review of your assets, liabilities, and family situation. Develop a strong working relationship with qualified professionals including lawyers, financial advisors, and tax specialists, considering using a multi-disciplinary team. Explore different asset protection strategies suited to your specific circumstances. Don’t hesitate to seek second opinions if needed,ensuring each step of this process aligns with your goals. Proactive planning minimizes stress during both life and death scenarios, while perhaps reducing legal costs and fees.“
SE: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Davies. It is indeed clear that choosing a qualified professional is essential and that proactive estate planning offers significant advantages.
MD: “My pleasure. It’s crucial for individuals to understand the importance of selecting a qualified professional to navigate these complex matters. Proactive planning offers significant protection for families and their wealth.”
Call to Action: share your thoughts on the importance of choosing a qualified wealth management professional in the comments below! Let’s discuss the best strategies and tools for planning for the future. #estateplanning #assetprotection #wealthmanagement #trustlaw #ATFA
Unveiling the Power of Accredited Trust & Fiduciary Advisors: An Exclusive Interview
Did you know that a single, poorly-planned estate can unravel a family’s financial security for generations? This interview explores the critical role of Accredited Trust & Fiduciary Advisors (ATFAs) in protecting your legacy and ensuring your family’s future.
senior Editor (SE): Welcome,Mr. Davies, a leading authority on trust and fiduciary law.The recent rise in demand for ATFAs indicates a growing awareness of the complexities involved in high-net-worth estate planning and asset protection. Can you elucidate the importance and specific benefits of seeking out an ATFA for complex wealth management?
Mr. Davies (MD): The increasing complexity of modern finance, coupled with evolving tax laws and inheritance regulations, makes expert guidance essential for anyone with meaningful assets. An ATFA designation signifies a deep understanding of trust law, fiduciary responsibilities, and advanced estate planning strategies. this isn’t merely about basic legal compliance; its about proactive wealth preservation and legacy planning. ATFAs possess specialized knowledge crucial for navigating intricate matters, including:
Complex Trust Structures: They can design and implement customized trust solutions tailored to individual needs, effectively minimizing tax burdens and protecting assets from creditors or unforeseen circumstances.
Asset Protection Strategies: ATFAs expertly utilize legal and financial tools to safeguard wealth from lawsuits, divorce proceedings, or other potential liabilities. This includes sophisticated techniques like domestic and offshore asset protection trusts.
Charitable Giving: For clients interested in charitable philanthropy, ATFAs guide the creation of effective giving strategies that maximize tax benefits while fulfilling philanthropic goals.
Succession Planning for Businesses: ATFAs help seamlessly transfer family businesses across generations, mitigating potential conflicts and safeguarding a family’s business legacy.
SE: mr.Davies,let’s delve into the practical implications. What key steps should individuals take when assessing the qualifications of a potential ATFA?
MD: Selecting the right ATFA is a crucial decision. Here’s a checklist of considerations:
Verification of Credentials: Confirm their ATFA designation and any additional relevant certifications like the Certified Trust and financial advisor (CTFA) designation. Look for professional affiliations with reputable organizations.
Experience and Specialization: Assess their track record, experience in handling cases comparable to your circumstances, and specialist skills in areas like asset protection, charitable giving, or business succession planning.
Client Testimonials and References: Check reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge their experience and satisfaction.
Clear Fee Structure and Transparency: Discuss their fees upfront and establish a clear understanding of their billing practices.Choose a professional who provides clear and straightforward financial disclosures.
SE: Beyond the core technical skills, what other qualities should individuals seek in an ATFA? How do soft skills contribute to a successful client-advisor relationship essential for long-term estate planning and wealth management?
MD: Technical expertise forms a fundamental bedrock, but a successful ATFA is also a skilled communicator, listener, and strategic advisor. You’re entrusting them with perhaps your most valuable asset, creating a fiduciary relationship built on trust and open dialog. Look for attributes like:
Extraordinary Communication Skills: clear, concise, and empathetic communication is paramount. they must be able to translate complex legal and financial concepts into easily understood terms.
Proactive and Strategic Approach: the best ATFAs are proactive problem solvers, anticipating potential challenges and developing strategies to address them before they arise.
Client-centered Approach: the focus must remain on your individual needs, goals, and values. Their advice should align with your unique circumstances.
Ethical Conduct and Integrity: This is of utmost importance in selecting any financial professional.
SE: The article mentions Austin’s diverse background in corporate and probate law and his time at a major bank. How do such diverse experiences benefit a client seeking extensive estate planning solutions? How do these contribute to their effectiveness as an expert?
MD: A diverse background is indeed a significant advantage. Experience in corporate law is invaluable for succession planning in family businesses, while probate expertise ensures a smooth and efficient administration of the estate. Bank experience offers insights into investment management and asset protection strategies.this holistic expertise enables an ATFA to offer integrated legal and financial solutions,effectively coordinating all aspects of wealth management and estate planning.
SE: What advice would you give individuals who are just beginning to consider advanced estate planning and asset protection?
MD: Don’t delay! Begin by:
- Inventorying Assets and Liabilities: Create a detailed inventory of all assets including real estate, investments, and business interests.
- Family and legacy Goals: Define your legacy and goals for your family’s future. This is fundamental to creating a strategy to support future generations.
- consulting a Multidisciplinary Team: Engaging a team of qualified professionals, including an ATFA estate planning attorney, financial advisor, and tax specialist ensures comprehensive guidance.
- Exploring Various Asset Protection Strategies: understand your risk tolerance, and find strategies that balance both risk and reward.
- Regular Review and Updates: Your financial circumstances and goals may change over time.So regularly review and update your estate plan to ensure it aligns with new developments.
SE: Thank you, Mr. Davies, for your insightful commentary. Your advice is invaluable for anyone seeking to secure their family’s financial future.
MD: My pleasure. Proactive planning is key to ensuring a smoother transition for your heirs and safeguarding your legacy.
Call to Action: Share your thoughts on the importance of choosing a qualified wealth management professional in the comments below! Let’s discuss the best strategies and tools for planning for the future. #estateplanning #assetprotection #wealthmanagement #trustlaw #ATFA #CTFA #fiduciary #legacy