Paul M. Hattenhauer

North Carolina residents understand the importance of preparing for the future, whether it's safeguarding family assets, ensuring a smooth transition for a family business, or navigating complex tax regulations. When it comes to these critical matters, having the right legal guidance can make all the difference. In Charlotte, NC, Paul M. Hattenhauer stands out as a highly respected and experienced attorney specializing in estate planning, tax law, and business succession. His deep understanding of North Carolina's legal landscape, combined with a commitment to personalized client service, makes him a valuable resource for individuals and businesses across the state.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Paul M. Hattenhauer's practice, offering insights into his areas of expertise, the benefits of his services, and how he can help you achieve your financial and personal objectives. For those living in and around the Charlotte area, understanding the specialized legal support available locally is key to making informed decisions about your future.

Paul M. Hattenhauer is a partner with Culp Elliott & Carpenter, P.L.L.C., and serves as the chair of the firm's Estate Planning practice group. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, he has built a reputation for providing strategic and effective legal counsel. His practice is particularly focused on the intricate interplay of tax and business matters, allowing him to offer holistic solutions that go beyond simple legal compliance. He is also a Board Certified Specialist in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization, a testament to his expertise and dedication to his field. This certification signifies a high level of proficiency and commitment to ongoing legal education in a specific area of law, providing an added layer of assurance for clients seeking specialized assistance.

For those in North Carolina, especially in the bustling Charlotte metropolitan area, accessing expert legal advice is crucial. Paul M. Hattenhauer's office is conveniently located at 6801 Carnegie Blvd Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28211, USA. This address places his practice within the prominent SouthPark area, a well-known and easily accessible part of Charlotte. The Carnegie Boulevard location is situated in a professional office complex, offering a comfortable and confidential environment for client consultations.

The accessibility of the office is a significant advantage for local clients. Charlotte's well-developed road network, including proximity to major thoroughfares, makes it relatively straightforward to reach the office from various parts of the city and surrounding areas. For those utilizing public transportation, while direct routes might vary, the area is generally well-served by local transit options. Ample parking is typically available at professional office complexes, easing concerns about finding a spot for your appointment. The strategic location in SouthPark, a hub for businesses and professional services, means clients can often integrate their legal appointments with other errands or business activities in the vicinity. This ease of access ensures that scheduling consultations and attending meetings is as convenient as possible, a valuable consideration for busy individuals and business owners.

Paul M. Hattenhauer offers a comprehensive range of legal services, tailored to meet the diverse and often complex needs of his clients. His expertise primarily lies in areas critical for long-term financial security and asset management. These services are designed to provide clarity and peace of mind, ensuring that your wishes are honored and your assets are protected for future generations.

• Estate Planning: This core service involves the careful arrangement of your assets to ensure their orderly transfer to your chosen beneficiaries, minimizing tax liabilities and avoiding potential disputes. This can include drafting wills, establishing trusts, and advising on powers of attorney and healthcare directives. Mr. Hattenhauer has extensive experience in implementing sophisticated estate plans for high-net-worth individuals, closely held business owners, and their families, tailoring plans to minimize taxes within the context of family goals.
• Business Succession Planning: For business owners, planning for the future of your company is as vital as planning for your personal estate. This service helps establish strategies for transferring ownership and management, whether it's to family members, employees, or external buyers, ensuring the continuity and long-term success of the business while addressing tax implications. He assists with entity selection and organization, partnership, limited liability company, and shareholders agreements, including buy-sell agreements.
• Tax Law: Understanding and navigating the intricacies of federal and state tax laws is crucial for both individuals and businesses. Paul M. Hattenhauer provides counsel on a wide range of tax matters, including income, gift, and estate tax planning, and represents clients in IRS audits. His goal is to help clients arrange their affairs to pay the least amount of tax legally possible.
• Estate and Trust Administration: After the passing of a loved one, navigating the legal processes of estate and trust administration can be daunting. Mr. Hattenhauer assists executors, trustees, and beneficiaries with all aspects of this process, including preparing and filing tax returns, managing assets, resolving disputes, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
• Charitable Giving: For those with philanthropic objectives, he assists in achieving these goals through various charitable giving structures, including private foundations, supporting organizations, and charitable remainder trusts, allowing clients to make a lasting impact while optimizing tax benefits.
• Asset Protection: Strategies to protect assets from potential creditors, lawsuits, or other unforeseen circumstances are an integral part of comprehensive planning. This includes advising on the appropriate legal structures and techniques to safeguard wealth.

Paul M. Hattenhauer’s practice is distinguished by several key features and highlights that underscore his commitment to excellence and client success. These aspects contribute to his reputation as a trusted legal advisor in the North Carolina community.

• Board Certified Specialist: As mentioned, Mr. Hattenhauer is a Board Certified Specialist in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. This credential is a significant indicator of his specialized knowledge, experience, and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in his practice area.
• Extensive Experience with High-Net-Worth Individuals and Closely-Held Businesses: His practice focuses significantly on the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals and owners of closely-held businesses, demonstrating a deep understanding of their complex financial and familial dynamics.
• Holistic and Tax-Efficient Planning: A key highlight of his approach is the focus on integrated planning that considers both legal and tax implications. He excels at creating sophisticated plans that minimize tax burdens while aligning with clients' overall goals and objectives.
• Member of Prominent Legal Organizations: Paul M. Hattenhauer is a Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), an exclusive professional organization comprising the nation’s premier trust and estate lawyers. He is also active in the North Carolina Bar Association, particularly its Estate Planning and Fiduciary Law Section, and the American Bar Association, Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section. These affiliations highlight his standing within the legal community and his dedication to staying current with legal developments.
• Recognized by Peers and Publications: He has consistently been selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® for Tax Law and Trusts and Estates, and recognized in the North Carolina Super Lawyers® list, further solidifying his reputation among his peers. He was also named Business North Carolina Legal Elite in Tax and Estate Planning.
• Thought Leadership and Publications: Mr. Hattenhauer is a respected voice in his field, contributing to publications and presentations on complex topics such as the tax and practical aspects of installment sales to spousal grantor trusts. This demonstrates his expertise and commitment to advancing legal knowledge.

As a professional legal service, specific "promotions or special offers" in the traditional retail sense are generally not applicable. Law firms adhere to ethical guidelines regarding client solicitation and fee structures. However, Paul M. Hattenhauer's practice is built on providing value through highly specialized expertise, efficient service, and tailored solutions that aim to save clients money in the long run through effective tax planning and dispute avoidance.

Prospective clients are encouraged to schedule an initial consultation to discuss their specific needs and understand how Mr. Hattenhauer's services can benefit them. During this consultation, clients can expect a transparent discussion about the legal process, potential outcomes, and fee arrangements. The value provided comes from his extensive experience and focused expertise in minimizing tax liabilities, ensuring smooth asset transitions, and avoiding costly future legal challenges. While there may not be "discounts," the inherent value lies in strategic planning that protects wealth and secures legacies.

For those in North Carolina seeking to connect with Paul M. Hattenhauer and his team, the following contact information is provided:

• Address: 6801 Carnegie Blvd Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28211, USA
• Phone: (704) 372-6322
• Mobile Phone: +1 704-372-6322

These contact details offer direct lines to his office, allowing individuals to inquire about services, schedule consultations, and receive professional assistance. It is always recommended to call ahead to schedule an appointment to ensure Mr. Hattenhauer is available to meet your needs.

For North Carolina locals, particularly those in the Charlotte area, Paul M. Hattenhauer is an exceptionally suitable choice for legal counsel in estate planning, tax law, and business succession. His practice offers a unique blend of deep specialization, extensive experience, and a client-centered approach that is vital when dealing with sensitive financial and familial matters.

He understands the specific legal and tax landscape of North Carolina and has a proven track record of helping individuals and business owners navigate complex regulations and plan for their futures effectively. His board certification in Estate Planning and Probate Law provides an extra layer of assurance, signifying a commitment to excellence and a recognized mastery of his field. Whether you are a high-net-worth individual looking to establish a robust estate plan, a business owner seeking to ensure a seamless transition of your company, or simply someone looking to understand your tax obligations and optimize your financial future, Mr. Hattenhauer's expertise can be invaluable.

Choosing a local attorney who is deeply embedded in the community means you benefit from someone who not only understands the nuances of state-specific laws but also appreciates the local economic and social context. Paul M. Hattenhauer’s convenient Charlotte location further enhances his suitability, making it easy for local residents to access high-quality legal support without extensive travel. His friendly yet professional demeanor, combined with his factual and strategic approach, ensures that clients receive clear, actionable advice tailored to their unique circumstances. By choosing Paul M. Hattenhauer, North Carolina residents can secure peace of mind, knowing their future is in capable and experienced hands.