Mark W. Dost

Navigating the complexities of elder law, estate planning, and probate can be one of the most critical, yet often daunting, tasks for individuals and families across Connecticut. Planning for the future, protecting assets, ensuring proper care for loved ones, and managing inheritances require not only deep legal expertise but also a compassionate and understanding approach. For residents in Connecticut, particularly those in Western Connecticut and Fairfield County, Mark W. Dost stands as a highly respected and distinguished attorney specializing in these vital areas of law. With decades of experience and a remarkable record of accolades, he brings a level of knowledge and dedication that instills confidence and provides peace of mind. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Mark W. Dost's practice, detailing his convenient location, the extensive services he offers, the key features that set him apart, and why he is an excellent choice for local residents seeking expert legal guidance in elder law and estate planning right here in Connecticut.

Mark W. Dost’s commitment to his clients and the legal field is evident through his extensive professional recognitions. He has been named to the prestigious list of Best Lawyers in America (Trusts and Estates; Elder Law) from 2001-2025, a testament to his consistent excellence. Furthermore, he has been recognized as "Lawyer of the Year" for the New Haven metro area by Best Lawyers multiple times, including in 2021 and 2024. He has also been selected to the Super Lawyers list (Trusts and Estates) from 2006-2025 and is included in Who's Who in America. These distinctions are not just honors; they reflect a career dedicated to mastering complex legal areas and providing exceptional service to clients. While specific client reviews for Mark W. Dost were not provided for this prompt, these professional accolades speak volumes about his standing in the legal community and his proven ability to deliver high-quality legal solutions for individuals and families in Connecticut. His impressive background ensures that clients receive advice grounded in profound experience and widely recognized expertise.

Mark W. Dost, practicing as Counsel at Chipman Mazzucco Emerson LLC, offers convenient accessibility for clients across Connecticut, particularly those in the western part of the state. His primary office address for consultations and services is located in Southbury at:

900 Main St S Suite 102, Southbury, CT 06488, USA

This Southbury location is strategically positioned to serve individuals and families throughout New Haven County, Litchfield County, and the broader Fairfield County region. Its accessibility makes it an ideal choice for residents in nearby towns who seek local, expert legal guidance without the need to travel extensively. Beyond the physical office, Mark W. Dost and his firm are part of a larger practice with additional offices in Danbury and Westport, further enhancing their reach and convenience for clients across Western Connecticut. This widespread presence underscores their commitment to being readily available to the communities they serve. For those needing to reach out, the firm emphasizes prompt responses, aiming to speak with new inquiries on the same day, demonstrating their dedication to client accessibility and timely support.

Mark W. Dost is a highly specialized attorney focusing on comprehensive elder law, estate planning, and probate services. His practice areas are meticulously designed to address the intricate legal and financial needs of individuals and families, particularly as they plan for the future, manage assets, and navigate life's transitions.

• Estate Planning: This foundational service involves crafting tailored strategies to ensure assets are managed and distributed according to clients' wishes. It includes drafting essential documents such as wills, living trusts, and powers of attorney. He assists with gift planning and comprehensive wealth succession, including for high-net-worth individuals.

• Elder Law: Mark W. Dost is a leading authority in elder law in Connecticut. This area covers a wide range of issues vital to seniors and their families, including long-term care planning, asset protection strategies, and qualifying for public benefits such as Medicaid (Title 19). He helps clients understand and navigate the complexities of financing long-term care and preserving assets.

• Trusts: He provides extensive counsel on various types of trusts, including revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, and special needs trusts. Trusts are vital tools for asset protection, minimizing estate taxes, and ensuring specific distributions to beneficiaries, including those with disabilities while maintaining their eligibility for public benefits.

• Estate Administration and Probate: Following the passing of a loved one, Mark W. Dost guides executors and families through the intricate probate process. This includes settling estates, valuing assets, making insurance claims, preparing tax returns (including estate and income tax), and overseeing the distribution of assets, aiming for efficient and compliant administration.

• Estate Taxes: He provides expert advice on federal and state estate tax laws, helping clients implement strategies to minimize tax liabilities and preserve wealth for future generations. His expertise extends to representing clients in audits and proceedings before the Internal Revenue Service and the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.

• Protection of Minors and Individuals with Disabilities: Mark W. Dost assists families in establishing guardianships, conservatorships, and special needs trusts to ensure the financial security and well-being of minors or individuals with disabilities, while also safeguarding their eligibility for vital public benefits.

Mark W. Dost’s practice is distinguished by several key features that underscore his expertise and commitment to clients in Connecticut:

• Extensive Experience and Recognition: With over four decades of experience practicing law since 1981, and a consistent presence on prestigious lists like Best Lawyers in America (2001-2025) and Super Lawyers (2006-2025), he brings an unparalleled level of proven expertise to every case. Being named "Lawyer of the Year" multiple times further solidifies his standing as a top attorney in his field.

• Deep Specialization in Elder Law and Estate Planning: His career has been significantly devoted to counseling and serving clients, particularly those in their 70s, 80s, and beyond, as well as individuals with disabilities. This long-term focus ensures he is at the forefront of legal developments and best practices in elder law, trusts, and estates.

• Author and Contributor to Legal Publications: Mark W. Dost is a respected author in his field, having co-authored "A Practical Guide to Issues in Connecticut Elder Law" and contributed to numerous articles on topics ranging from estate planning with retirement benefits to Medicaid planning. This showcases his thought leadership and commitment to advancing legal knowledge.

• Active Leadership in Legal Associations: His extensive involvement with the Connecticut Bar Association, including serving as a former Chairman of the Elder Law Section and as a member of the Executive Committees of both the Estates and Probate Section and the Elder Law Section, demonstrates his dedication to shaping and upholding the highest standards in his practice areas.

• Admitted to Practice in Key Courts: Mark W. Dost is admitted to practice before state and federal courts in Connecticut, as well as the United States Tax Court, enabling him to represent clients comprehensively in audits, proceedings, and litigation related to estate and tax matters.

• Commitment to Client Advocacy: His public testimony against certain legislative bills, such as those concerning end-of-life care, reflects his strong advocacy for the rights and dignity of the aging and individuals with disabilities, going beyond traditional legal counsel to champion important causes for his clients.

While Mark W. Dost and Chipman Mazzucco Emerson LLC do not typically publicize specific, limited-time promotional offers, their commitment to providing exceptional value and client-focused service is an inherent part of their practice. A key benefit they offer to prospective clients in Connecticut is their dedication to accessibility. The firm strives to be highly responsive, often able to speak with new inquiries on the same day they reach out by phone or email. This proactive approach ensures that individuals and families facing time-sensitive elder law or estate planning concerns can receive prompt attention and initial guidance. Their focus is on delivering comprehensive, high-quality legal solutions grounded in decades of experience, rather than relying on promotional discounts. Clients can expect a transparent fee structure that reflects the profound expertise and dedicated support provided by Mark W. Dost and his team, ensuring long-term peace of mind rather than short-term enticements.

For Connecticut residents seeking expert legal assistance with elder law, estate planning, and probate matters, contacting Mark W. Dost is straightforward. You can reach his Southbury office using the following details:

Address: 900 Main St S Suite 102, Southbury, CT 06488, USA

Phone: (203) 693-8530

Mobile Phone: +1 203-693-8530 (This number is consistent with his main phone line, ensuring seamless contact for mobile users.)

You can also connect with him through Chipman Mazzucco Emerson LLC, which has additional offices in Danbury and Westport, offering further accessibility across Western Connecticut. Reaching out by phone is an excellent first step to discuss your specific needs and learn how his extensive experience can benefit your unique situation.

For individuals and families across Connecticut, particularly those planning for their future, managing assets, or navigating the complexities of elder care and probate, Mark W. Dost stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended legal professional. His practice is not just about legal transactions; it's about providing peace of mind and security through thoughtful, experienced guidance during pivotal life stages. The impressive array of professional accolades, including consistent recognition in Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers, along with multiple "Lawyer of the Year" awards, unequivocally establishes him as a top-tier attorney in elder law and trusts and estates.

What makes Mark W. Dost particularly suitable for Connecticut locals is his deep, specialized expertise combined with decades of dedicated service within the state. He understands the unique nuances of Connecticut's legal landscape, having actively shaped and contributed to it through his extensive involvement with the Connecticut Bar Association and various publications. His accessible office in Southbury, backed by additional locations, ensures that expert legal counsel is always within reach for residents across Western Connecticut. When dealing with sensitive matters like estate planning, elder care, or probate, having an attorney who is not only profoundly knowledgeable but also a respected leader in the field—an attorney like Mark W. Dost—provides invaluable confidence and ensures that your interests and those of your loved ones are protected with the utmost care and professionalism. He is truly a trusted local resource for complex and critical legal needs.