-- As the U.S. enters an unprecedented $84.4 trillion intergenerational wealth transfer, Marisa Hochberg is sharing hard-won insights from her personal legal battles to help families avoid costly mistakes in probate, inheritance disputes, and fiduciary oversight.
At the center of this generational shift is Hochberg, a Millennial who found herself battling her late father’s estate following the loss of both parents. What began as a personal loss quickly escalated into a complex legal undertaking, exposing her to probate delays, fiduciary disputes, and allegations of misconduct by attorneys. The experience, she says, forced her to become well-versed in estate law and inspired her to speak out.
“It’s not just about drafting a will,” Hochberg said. “It’s about understanding how probate works, choosing the right professionals, and preparing the next generation to handle what’s coming.”
Hochberg warns that even well-structured estate plans can fall apart when executors or trustees aren’t properly vetted. In her case, she alleges two lawyers connected to her father’s synagogue exploited their roles, attempting to influence the estate and discredit her claims. Her story reflects a broader pattern emerging across the country—where family wealth is at risk not just from external factors, but from those tasked with managing it.
Recent reports from the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel show a rise in fiduciary litigation and contested probate cases, particularly involving Millennial heirs who are unfamiliar with legal processes and financial obligations. Hochberg believes this knowledge gap is one of the most urgent issues facing younger beneficiaries today.
“Estate planning isn’t just for older generations or those closer to death,” she said. “Younger generations need to understand estate tax, trust structures, and what their responsibilities will be. These conversations should start long before someone passes.”
She also emphasizes the importance of working with experienced estate attorneys—not general practitioners unfamiliar with fiduciary law. According to Hochberg, families often make the mistake of choosing legal counsel based on convenience or long-standing relationships, rather than expertise.
“Families need attorneys who understand not just the documents, but the dynamics. Empathy matters. So does specialization,” she said.
Women, in particular, may face additional challenges. Hochberg notes that while women are expected to inherit roughly $54 trillion of the coming wealth transfer, many still face gender bias in legal settings.
“There were times I wasn’t taken seriously until I hired a female attorney who listened and acted decisively,” she said. “That kind of support shouldn’t be rare.”
As part of her ongoing efforts to educate the public, Hochberg plans to release a free digital estate planning checklist later this year, aimed at helping families organize key documents, choose responsible executors, and navigate probate with more confidence.
“This isn’t a distant issue,” she said. “The Great Wealth Transfer is already happening. Families that don’t prepare are gambling with their legacy.”
Branding Management Services by Marisa Hochberg
In addition to her work in estate planning, Marisa Hochberg offers expert branding management services to businesses looking to refine their identities and navigate transitions. Whether it's through rebranding, strategic growth, or crisis management, Hochberg uses her experience to help businesses thrive in both stable and uncertain times.
Through her branding management services, Hochberg helps businesses develop long-term strategies that preserve their brand identity while adapting to changing market conditions. She understands that in the same way personal legacies need careful planning, so do business legacies, especially when handed down through generations or passed on to new leadership.
“My goal is to ensure that businesses, just like families, are ready for transitions—whether it’s managing wealth or maintaining a strong brand identity during periods of change,” Hochberg said. “A brand is more than just a logo. It’s about creating a lasting impression, both internally and externally, and preserving that vision over time.”
Hochberg’s branding services offer a tailored approach, ensuring that each client’s unique needs and challenges are addressed. Whether it’s a start-up looking to establish its brand or a legacy business facing a generational shift, Hochberg brings strategic insight to every project.
About Marisa Hochberg
Marisa Hochberg is a public advocate for estate planning awareness, drawing on firsthand experience managing probate, legal disputes, and fiduciary litigation. She also offers branding management services, helping businesses craft and preserve strong brand identities. Hochberg aims to empower families—especially women and Millennial heirs—through education and proactive planning during the Great Wealth Transfer.
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Marisa Hochberg
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