Anthony R. Mignanelli

In Providence, Rhode Island, at Orson and Brusini Ltd., Anthony R. Mignanelli stands as a beacon of competence in the realm of estate planning, wills and trusts. With a career marked by significant legal victories, he has carved out a reputation as a formidable advocate for his clients, particularly in the nuanced field of special needs planning.

One of Mr. Mignanelli’s most notable achievements came with the landmark case of Chenot v. Bordeleau. In this pivotal legal battle, the Rhode Island Supreme Court ruled that beneficiaries of discretionary trusts could also qualify for medical assistance benefits, a decision that has had far-reaching implications for special needs planning. This case underscored his ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and secure favorable outcomes for those he represents.

Another feather in Mr. Mignanelli’s cap is the precedent-setting case of Pezza v. Pezza, where the Rhode Island Supreme Court clarified the rights of a surviving spouse concerning real estate held in trust. This case further solidified Mr. Mignanelli's standing as a leading authority in trust and estate law.

In 1998, Mr. Mignanelli’s peers recognized his exceptional skills and dedication by voting him one of the top four estate planning attorneys in a survey conducted by Rhode Island Monthly, which highlighted the Fifty Best Lawyers in the state. This accolade is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence in legal practice.

Mr. Mignanelli's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Bryant University in 1973, followed by a Juris Doctor degree from the George Mason University School of Law in 1980. His legal acumen is further evidenced by his admissions to practice in Rhode Island, Virginia, the United States District Court for Rhode Island, the United States Tax Court and the United States Supreme Court.

Before venturing into private practice, Mr. Mignanelli honed his skills as a trust officer at a prominent Rhode Island bank. This experience laid the foundation for his client-centric approach, which emphasizes personalized attention, meticulous focus and a passionate commitment to resolving his clients' legal challenges.