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Kay Abramowitz
Partner, Miller Nash Graham & Dunn, LLP- retired
Professional Background
Kay Abramowitz has dedicated her career to assisting individuals and couples in establishing robust estate plans and facilitating the smooth transfer of family wealth since 1984. With nearly four decades of legal experience, Kay's expertise lies in trust administration, probate, and tax compliance, particularly during transition periods that accompany the loss of a loved one. Her deep understanding of family dynamics and financial intricacies allows her to support her clients amid life's most challenging moments.
A significant part of Kay's practice focuses on family-owned businesses, where she plays a pivotal role in succession planning and governance. As a trusted advisor, she collaborates with shareholders and boards to develop comprehensive succession plans and connects them with external resources to help them execute these plans effectively. Her commitment to fostering collaboration and ensuring the sustainability of family businesses sets her apart in her field.
Currently, Kay is proud to practice at Miller Nash Graham & Dunn, LLP (MNG&D), a premier law firm in the Pacific Northwest, which has established itself as a leader in legal services with offices in Portland, Seattle, Vancouver, and Long Beach. Prior to her tenure at MNG&D, Kay served as a partner at Ater Wynne, LLP, as well as a shareholder at Buckley LeChevallier, PC. She began as a sole practitioner in downtown Portland, where she cultivated her skills and built a reputation for excellence in legal practice for estate and wealth management.
Education and Achievements
Kay's educational background sets a strong foundation for her legal expertise. She studied at Lewis & Clark Law School, where she earned her Juris Doctorate (JD). Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Utah, providing her with a unique perspective when addressing client needs and understanding family dynamics in wealth transfer.
Beyond her law practice, Kay is actively engaged in her community. She has served on numerous boards, including the Oregon College of Art & Craft and the Portland Opera, where she was previously the President of the Board of Directors. Kay also served as a member of the Board of Directors at Meals on Wheels People and the Portland State University Foundation. Her commitment extends to advising future generations through her time with the Austin Family Business Program at Oregon State University, where she supported family business education and governance.
Notable Contributions
In her illustrious career, Kay Abramowitz has developed specializations in various aspects of estate planning and wealth management. Her notable areas of expertise include tax-sensitive revocable and irrevocable trusts, disclaimer wills and trusts, special needs trusts, and both charitable remainder and lead trusts. Moreover, she has extensive knowledge in asset protection and the intricacies of probate and trust administration, ensuring compliance for her clients and facilitating a seamless transition during sensitive times.
Kay is also well-versed in the ethical aspects of wealth transfer, offering her clients guidance on ethical wills and drafting pre-nuptial agreements to safeguard family heritage and future interests. Her understanding of the unique challenges faced by non-U.S. citizen spouses further enhances her law practice, allowing her to cater to an increasingly diverse clientele.
Her role as a partner and chair of wealth preservation and family-owned business practice groups at Ater Wynne LLP highlights her leadership in the field, demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence and her desire to elevate the practice of estate planning amongst her peers. As a frequent speaker and advisor, Kay imparts her knowledge to others, helping them navigate the complexities of family governance and succession planning effectively.
In addition to her practice and board memberships, Kay has made significant contributions to the arts and culture sector through her involvement with Artists Repertory Theatre, enriching the local community and fostering creativity through the performing arts.
Conclusion
With nearly four decades of experience, Kay Abramowitz combines profound legal knowledge with a heartfelt approach to estate planning and wealth preservation. Her practice not only secures the future of her clients but also seeks to enhance the overall well-being of the families and businesses she serves. As a leader at Miller Nash Graham & Dunn, she continues to provide unparalleled legal services while engaging actively in community service and mentorship. Kay's expertise in complex estate planning, family business governance, and philanthropic endeavors make her a valuable resource in the legal community and a trusted ally to her clients.