Jillian Merns Joins Davis Polk as Trusts & Estates Partner

Davis Polk announced the addition of Jillian Merns as a partner and co-head of the Trusts & Estates practice in New York, marking a significant enhancement to the firm's services for high-net-worth clients. Merns, with her extensive experience in estate planning and administration, is expected to play a pivotal role in advising clients on complex trusts and estates matters, including tax planning and family office formation.

Neil Barr, Davis Polk’s Managing Partner, highlighted Merns' expertise in planning with private fund interests and her ability to provide comprehensive solutions to the wealthiest families. Merns' transition from Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP to Davis Polk is seen as a strategic move that will bolster the firm's reputation as a leader in trusts and estates law.

Paula Ryan, co-head of Davis Polk’s Trusts & Estates practice, praised Merns for her impressive client roster and her strong background in private funds and family office advisory work. Merns expressed her honor in joining Davis Polk and her eagerness to collaborate with colleagues to deliver innovative strategies to clients.

Recognized in Private Wealth Law by Chambers High Net Worth, Merns is celebrated for her creativity and brilliance in planning. Her academic credentials include a J.D. from Columbia Law School, a B.A. from Yale University, and an LL.M. from New York University School of Law.