About Michelle Jacobs

Michelle Jacobs Chapin practices estate planning and tax law in Bethesda, Maryland. She is a principal at Paley Rothman, where she provides comprehensive legal services to clients navigating complex estate and tax issues. The firm is known for its commitment to personalized service and expertise in estate planning strategies. Michelle is admitted to practice in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, as well as before the U.S. Supreme Court. She earned her J.D.

from American University Washington College of Law in 2005. Following her law degree, she pursued an LL.M. in Taxation from Georgetown University Law Center, which she completed in 2011. In addition to her advanced legal education, she holds a certificate in Estate Planning from Georgetown University Law Center. Her academic background equips her with a solid foundation to address the intricate legal needs of her clients. Most of her practice involves drafting wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, as well as advising clients on tax implications related to estate planning.

Cases typically involve working closely with clients to understand their goals and family dynamics, ensuring that their wishes are clearly articulated and legally enforceable. Michelle also assists clients with tax planning strategies to minimize tax liabilities and maximize the value of their estates. Before joining Paley Rothman, Michelle worked in various legal roles that shaped her expertise in estate planning and tax law. She is actively involved in several professional organizations, including the Virginia State Bar and the Maryland State Bar. Additionally, she serves on the Professional Development Committee and the Golf Tournament Committee of the Washington D.C. Estate Planning Council, contributing her insights to enhance the council's initiatives.

Michelle is a member of the International Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP-USA) and participates in the Fairfax County Bar Association and the Montgomery County Bar Association. Her involvement in these organizations supports her staying informed about the latest developments in estate planning and tax law. She regularly attends seminars and workshops to further her knowledge and skills in these areas. With a strong educational background and experience, Michelle Jacobs Chapin is well-equipped to guide clients through the details of estate planning and tax law. Her dedication to her clients and her proactive approach to legal challenges make her a valuable asset in the field of estate planning. She is recognized for her professionalism and her ability to handle the details of the law with confidence.

Education

American University Washington College of Law

J.D. (2005)

2005

Georgetown University Law Center

Certificate | Estate Planning

Georgetown University Law Center

LL.M. (2011) | Taxation

University of Florida

B.A. (2002)

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Principal

Paley Rothman

Accepted Jurisdictions

District of Columbia
Virginia
Maryland
U.S. Supreme Court

Court Admissions

U.S. Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Court
District of Columbia
Virginia
Maryland

Types of Cases Handled

Estate Planning Tax Law

Legal Services Scope

Drafting Advising

Professional Associations

Virginia State Bar

has membership Current

Maryland State Bar

has membership Current

District of Columbia

has membership Current

United States Supreme Court

Current

Washington D.C. Estate Planning Council

Professional Development Committee - Co-Chair - Program Committee - Golf Tournament Committee Current

nternational Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP-USA)

has membership Current

Fairfax County Bar Association

has membership Current

Montgomery County Bar Association

has membership Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 4800 Hampden Lane 6th Floor Bethesda MD 20814