DEPARTMENT PROFILE

Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered

Private Wealth Law

3 ranked individuals

Band 2

District of Columbia

High Net Worth 2021 View ranking table

chambers review

department information

Ranked Individuals

Chambers Review

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Caplin & Drysdale is considered a "leading tax firm" and "an exceptional firm to work with." The team advises high net worth individuals and families on an array of matters including cross-border tax and estate planning.

One commentator describes the firm as "terrific," explaining: "They are quality-oriented and the people they hire are highly educated. The partners have a variety of interests and also contribute to teaching in the wider community. They are one of the better firms in DC."

Notable practitioners

Anne O'Brien focuses her practice on cross-border tax and estate planning for domestic and international high net worth clients. "International planning is her strength," notes one source, and another comments: "She is technically strong and committed to the profession." Other interviewees describe her as a "very bright lawyer" and "excellent at dealing with complex situations."

Beth Shapiro Kaufman "commands a lot of respect from others - she's an excellent lawyer with very good judgement." Peers say that Kaufman "brings a great perspective to things," "is viewed as an honest professional who will not play games," and benefits from experience at the Treasury Department which "puts her in a special position to understand regulatory processes." A client also observes that "Beth is literally one of the best lawyers I have worked with in any capacity. She is at the top of the top. If there were an Olympic Gold medal for Beth’s abilities, she would get one. She is a superstar."

Megan Wernke advises high net worth clients on tax and estate planning, as well as probate and trust administration. "I think she is a star," reports a peer, and another source comments: "Megan Wernke is a top-notch young partner and her client service and attention to detail is excellent." An interviewee says: "She is very creative and can come up with great solutions."