Joy Cheray McNair

“Estate planning and elder law chose me.”

That is my response when asked why I chose… a legal career in estate planning and elder law.

Although witty in my remarks, I have lived the majority of my life in an estate planning centric environment. Having lost my father at an early age when he died onboard the Challenger Space Shuttle during the explosion of 1986, then, later in life, becoming the (temporary) caretaker of mymother when she had to undergo an emergency craniotomy brain surgery, I have experienced first hand many of the matters involved with planning for incapacity and death. I understand the choices that families must make, the questions that arise and the great impact that proper planning or lack of planning can have on individuals and their loved ones. As a result, I have made it my life’s mission to turn my tragedy into triumph by using my experiences and insights to help individuals and families create and maintain a life of security and prosperity that will last for generations.

I am the Founder and Principal of the McNair Law Group, PLLC. I  practice exclusively in the areas of estate planning, elder law, and asset protection including: Wills and Trusts, Medicaid / Long-Term Care Planning, Special Needs Planning, and Probate and Trust Administration.

I excel at guiding her clients through the complicated and often confusing process of creating plans, which encompass balancing family protection, preserving wealth, and reflecting cherished family values.  My considerable legal proficiency includes, family protection, nursing home asset protection, wealth preservation, values-based planning, as well as planning strategies for unmarried couples, same-sex couples, divorced individuals, and persons with disabilities.  Whether you are married or single, with a traditional family or blended one, just starting out or looking back on a life well-lived, I will help you craft a plan that achieves your goals for yourself and your loved ones today and for generations to come.

I am a member of Lawyers With Purpose, a national organization committed to promoting the highest standards of excellence in the estate planning and elder law profession. In addition, I am a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NALEA), Wealth Counsel and Elder Counsel. And, I am admitted to the State Bar of Texas, State Bar of Georgia, and the District of Columbia Bar.

I completed my undergraduate work at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, with a major in Psychology. I earned a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law in Washington, DC. In addition, I earned an advanced law degree, Master of Laws (LL.M), from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, DC, with a concentration in Taxation and a certificate in Estate Planning.

Outside of the office, I enjoy a wide variety of activities including: traveling the world and experiencing different cultures, indulging in the arts such as the symphony, the ballet, and live concert performances, spending time with family and friends, and giving back to the community through charitable giving and volunteer work.