About Michael
Michael A. Backer: Experienced Estate Planning & Litigation Attorney in New Jersey
For over forty years, Michael A. Backer has provided exceptional legal counsel to individuals, business owners, and families navigating the complexities of estate planning, estate administration, and fiduciary litigation. Mr. Backer’s deep expertise and aggressive approach make him a trusted advisor and advocate, consistently delivering effective solutions for individuals and institutions alike. He is recognized as a leading attorney specializing in trusts and estates litigation, demonstrating a commitment to meticulous representation and achieving optimal outcomes for his clients.
Mr. Backer’s practice is built upon a foundation of experience, strategic thinking, and a thorough understanding of New Jersey’s probate laws. He skillfully manages intricate will disputes, provides expert guidance in will construction proceedings, and aggressively pursues accounting and other fiduciary litigation on behalf of his clients, including executors, administrators, trustees, and beneficiaries. His ability to identify and address potential challenges early on significantly strengthens his clients’ positions and protects their assets.
He understands the significant responsibility involved in wealth transfer strategies, advising and implementing tailored plans for high-net-worth individuals and closely-held business owners. His focus is on helping clients achieve their estate planning objectives while diligently minimizing transfer tax liabilities, ensuring their legacy is protected and preserved. Mr. Backer’s counsel extends to all facets of fiduciary accountings, including preparation of complex state and federal death and fiduciary income tax returns, comprehensive post-mortem tax planning, and meticulous accountings, providing peace of mind to those entrusted with significant estates.
Recognized as a Lawyer of the Year for Litigation – Trusts and Estates by Woodbridge (2025, 2014, 2013), and consistently identified as a Recognized attorney in Litigation – Trusts and Estates and Trusts and Estates by Best Attorney USA since 1993, Mr. Backer’s expertise extends beyond the courtroom. He frequently serves as an expert witness and, due to his deep understanding of New Jersey's Probate Code, is often engaged to mediate complex, contested estate litigation. His significant contributions include drafting substantial portions of Title 3B of the New Jersey Statutes, including The Prudent Investor Act (which significantly revised the rules governing trust investing), The Revised Uniform Principal and Income Act, and subsequent revisions to the Code. This extensive involvement demonstrates his commitment to shaping legal standards and protecting his clients’ interests.
Mr. Backer’s legal practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individual and corporate fiduciaries. He offers strategic counsel regarding all aspects of estate and trust administration, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. His services encompass meticulous record-keeping, accurate accountings, and proactive tax planning to safeguard the financial well-being of trusts and estates. His client base includes executors, administrators, and trustees seeking guidance and representation throughout the often-challenging process of managing and administering significant assets.
With a history of successful litigation and mediation, Mr. Backer’s strategic approach, combined with his deep legal knowledge, consistently delivers favorable outcomes for his clients. He is committed to providing personalized attention and responsive service, building strong, trusting relationships with those he represents.
Key Areas of Expertise:
Estate Planning: Development of comprehensive estate plans, including wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents, to meet individual needs and goals.
Estate & Trust Administration: Expert guidance and representation during the administration of estates and trusts, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and protecting assets.
Fiduciary Litigation: Aggressive representation in disputes involving executors, administrators, trustees, and beneficiaries, including will contests, accounting disputes, and breach of fiduciary claims.
Wealth Transfer Strategies: Implementation of sophisticated strategies to minimize transfer taxes and effectively transfer assets to future generations.
Tax Planning: Development of post-mortem and fiduciary income tax strategies to optimize tax outcomes.
Expert Witness & Mediation: Providing expert testimony and facilitating mediation in complex estate litigation matters.
Education & Credentials:
Bar Admissions: New Jersey Bar
Affiliations: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 1993
Location: Iselin, New Jersey
Contact: To schedule a consultation and discuss your estate planning or litigation needs, please contact Michael A. Backer today.
