Business Details
44 Years
experience
Trusted Tax and Estate Planning Solutions in Charlotte, NC
Founded in 1982, Culpelliott & Carpenter has built a reputation as a premier tax, legal, and financial services firm serving high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses. Our multidisciplinary team of attorneys and CPAs delivers innovative solutions to complex challenges, combining deep expertise in estate planning, tax law, and business transactions. With over four decades of experience, we prioritize client satisfaction through personalized service, cutting-edge strategies, and a commitment to preserving wealth across generations.Our culture of innovation and efficiency enables us to address evolving legal and financial landscapes while maintaining the highest ethical standards. We serve clients across the Southeast and beyond, fostering long-term relationships built on trust, transparency, and results-driven counsel.
Services
Tax Planning
Estate Administration
Real Estate Joint Ventures
Tax Controversy Representation
Trust Administration
Business Succession Planning
Charitable Planning
International Tax Planning
Asset Protection
Fiduciary Services
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We have over four decades of experience in tax and estate planning.
- Our team includes attorneys and CPAs with specialized expertise.
- We develop creative solutions to complex legal and tax challenges.
- We provide personalized service tailored to each client's unique needs.
- We are recognized as one of the Southeast's most respected firms.
What people say
Excellent job structuring transactions
Effective representation
Unique combination of expertise
Invaluable ongoing counsel
Professionally handled matters
Services
Tax Planning
Our tax planning services focus on minimizing liabilities through strategic structuring of business and personal transactions. We advise on entity selection, international tax implications, and real estate partnerships, ensuring compliance while optimizing financial outcomes. Clients benefit from tailored solutions that align with long-term wealth preservation goals.
Estate Administration
Estate administration involves guiding executors through probate, asset distribution, and tax compliance. We streamline the process for beneficiaries, addressing complex fiduciary responsibilities and minimizing disputes. Our approach prioritizes efficiency and adherence to legal requirements while protecting family legacies.
Asset Protection
Asset protection strategies safeguard clients' wealth from creditors and legal risks. We design irrevocable trusts, family LLCs, and other structures to shield assets while maintaining control. These plans integrate seamlessly with estate and tax strategies to ensure long-term security for future generations.
Tax Controversy Representation
We represent clients in IRS audits, tax litigation, and collection matters. Our team combines legal and technical expertise to resolve disputes efficiently, whether through negotiation or court proceedings. We focus on minimizing penalties and protecting clients' interests during high-stakes tax conflicts.
Business Succession Planning
Business succession planning ensures smooth transitions for family-owned enterprises. We address tax implications, ownership transfers, and leadership continuity, balancing emotional and financial considerations. Our solutions preserve business value while aligning with family and corporate objectives.
People
William R. Culp, Jr.
Partner
With decades of experience, William R. Culp, Jr. specializes in estate planning and tax law, guiding high-net-worth clients through complex wealth preservation strategies while maintaining a client-focused approach.
W. Curtis Elliott, Jr.
Partner
W. Curtis Elliott, Jr. focuses on tax controversy and litigation, representing clients in IRS disputes and complex tax matters with a track record of successful resolutions for individuals and businesses.
John J. (Jody) Carpenter
Partner
John J. Carpenter provides expertise in real estate tax planning and business transactions, leveraging his dual qualifications as an attorney and tax professional to deliver integrated solutions for clients.
Christopher E. Hannum
Partner
Christopher E. Hannum specializes in corporate governance and international tax planning, advising businesses on cross-border transactions and compliance while maintaining a focus on strategic growth.
Paul M. Hattenhauer
Partner
Paul M. Hattenhauer concentrates on trust administration and fiduciary services, ensuring seamless management of complex estates while prioritizing client confidentiality and long-term asset protection.
Questions
What services does Culp Elliott & Carpenter offer?
We specialize in tax planning, estate administration, asset protection, business succession, and tax controversy resolution for individuals and businesses.
How do you handle complex tax disputes?
Our team combines legal and technical expertise to resolve IRS and state tax disputes through audits, appeals, or litigation while minimizing client liability.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve clients in the Southeast United States, with national and international capabilities for complex transactions.
Can you assist with international tax planning?
Yes, we advise U.S. and foreign clients on cross-border tax compliance, estate planning, and business structuring to optimize global wealth management.
How do you approach estate planning for families?
We create customized strategies using trusts, LLCs, and charitable vehicles to minimize taxes and ensure smooth intergenerational wealth transfer.
