About Jennifer

Jennifer Coates is an attorney specializing in business, tax, and international law — In 2011, she founded Jenny Coates Law, PLLC, which operates from her Bainbridge Island office. With over 34 years of legal experience, she is known for her expertise and client-focused approach. The firm offers personalized legal services tailored to meet the needs of each client. Before establishing her own practice, Jennifer developed her skills in New York City, where she worked with prestigious firms such as Dewey, Ballantine LLP, Brown & Wood LLP, and Sidley Austin LLP. During her tenure at these firms, she held tax associate positions that provided her with inexperience in tax law and international transactions.

In 2006, Jennifer made a significant move to the Pacific Northwest, joining Dorsey & Whitney LLP's Seattle office as a senior tax attorney. This role further enriched her expertise, particularly in international tax matters — This lets the attorney navigate complex legal fields with ease. Jennifer's educational background is equally impressive. She earned her Juris Doctor from Brooklyn Law School in 1990, where she served as an editor for the Brooklyn Journal of International Law. This experience laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in international law.

In 1994, she completed her Master of Laws in Taxation at New York University School of Law, deepening her understanding of tax regulations. Earlier, in 1984, she graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Yale University, showcasing her diverse academic interests. At Jenny Coates Law, PLLC, Jennifer provides many services, including domestic and international tax law, business planning, entity formation, and contract drafting. Her commitment to prompt communication and understanding of each client's needs sets her apart in the legal field. The firm serves clients, including small business owners and entrepreneurs, guiding them through complex legal challenges with expertise and care.

Admitted to practice law in Washington, New York, and Massachusetts (inactive), Jennifer is an active member of the Washington State Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, and the King County Bar Association. Her contributions to the legal community have been recognized with selections as a Washington Super Lawyer in 2017 and 2018, particularly in the areas of tax, contracts, business, and corporate law. Beyond her legal practice, Jennifer is deeply involved in her community. She serves on the board of Arts & Humanities Bainbridge and is a member of the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce. Her personal interests include singing with two choirs, playing pickleball, practicing yoga, and writing poetry, with several of her works selected for public readings.

Education

New York University School of Law

LL.M. (1994) | Taxation

1991

Brooklyn Law School

J.D. (1980) | law

1987

Yale University

B.A. (1984) | English Literature

1980

Accepted Jurisdictions

Washington
New York

Court Admissions

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York U.S. District Court
U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington U.S. District Court

Types of Cases Handled

Business Law Tax Law International Law

Legal Services Scope

Entity Formation Contract Drafting Tax Planning International Transactions

Office Locations

Main Office

 6100 Lynood Center Road, NE Bainbridge Island WA 98110