Benjamin Trujillo is a distinguished expert in corporate and partnership taxation, estate planning, estate and gift tax planning, estate and trust administration, business continuation, and business transfers.
“With high-net-worth clients, estate issues are often some of the most crucial matters they face,” Ben said. “This is particularly true for family businesses, where transferring ownership to the next generation or planning for a liquidity event during a sale can be complex. My expertise helps clients understand and navigate these processes, ensuring they are as tax efficient as possible. I also work to align their assets with their long-term goals.”
For more than 25 years, Ben has specialized in guiding entrepreneurial clients through managing, selling, or transferring their businesses to the next generation. His extensive experience in drafting and reviewing a wide array of tax and estate planning documents allows him to craft and implement well-conceived plans that significantly benefit his clients.
“People usually handle estate planning in one of two ways: planning or reacting,” Ben said. “I prefer planning. Often, business owners are so focused on running their companies that they don’t adequately consider the tax implications of a sale or transfer.”
By meticulously reviewing buy-sell agreements, corporate articles, partnership operating agreements, durable powers, wills, trusts, private foundations, and family limited partnerships, Ben ensures that his clients’ estates are structured to provide maximum benefit to their families.
“I love simplifying complex issues for my clients,” Ben said. “This way, they aren’t faced with even more difficult choices during times of illness or after a loved one has passed away.”
Ben’s dedication and unique skill set allow him to spend countless hours reviewing intricate estate and tax documents, distilling them into clear, actionable information for his clients.
“My primary motivation is always doing what is right and best for my clients.” Ben said. “It’s not about how my work benefits me, but how it improves my clients’ lives.”
Outside of the office, Ben is an avid long-distance swimmer and Scotch enthusiast. He and his wife are active in the St. Louis animal rescue community, volunteering with Stray Rescue of St. Louis and Tenth Life Cat Rescue.
EDUCATION
- B.S., Political Science, B.A., History, Texas Christian University
- Juris Doctor, Georgetown University
- LL.M., Taxation, Washington University in St. Louis
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- The Missouri Bar
- Licensed Investment Advisor Representative (series 66)
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
- Stray Rescue of St. Louis, Volunteer
- Tenth Life Cat Rescue, Board Member
NEWS & PUBLICATIONS
