Lawrence Leaf, CPA, PFS, ABV
National Estate and Trust Leader, NJ Managing Partner | Providing estate, succession, family office, and income and charitable tax planning services
Who I work with
As Aprio’s National Estate Planning and Trust Leader, I serve high-net-worth families, individuals, business owners and executives seeking sophisticated estate, succession, income and charitable tax planning, as well as family office services. I serve as trustee for numerous trusts and private foundations coordinating front- and back-office services and the activities of investment advisors and legal counsel. As the Managing Partner of Aprio’s New Jersey office, I lead 40+ talented professionals who help our clients thrive.
My specialty
I stay in close contact with clients to anticipate their needs and provide clear guidance; many clients see me as their private CFO. My specialties include estate and trust planning and administration; family office services, including private foundation support; and complex income tax planning. I use the technical mastery gained in my 20+ years in accounting, tax, audit and financial planning to simplify effective and large trust, estate and foundation solutions.
Results I have delivered
From tax efficient strategies for multiyear gifting to family business transitions, I help my clients build and protect legacy. Education is important to understanding, so I make sure that family members have a common vision of financial, tax and elder care time horizons. I help manage interpersonal dynamics and reconcile disputes to realize family, philanthropic and financial goals. I truly enjoy helping my clients succeed.
Unique things about me
My dog knows to sit by me since I always make sure he gets good snacks. Although I am in my 50s, I can still bench press over 225 pounds. I’ve had the honor of being a best man three times.
When I am not at work
I enjoy playing tennis, reading philosophy and having a good time with my wife, Pamela, and our two children.
People say I am
Perceptive, trustworthy, creative, wise and highly intelligent
Affiliations
I received my Master of Business Administration in Finance and Taxation from New York University’s Leonard N. Stern School of Business. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Commerce, with distinction, from the University of Virginia. I have the Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV®) credential and am a Personal Financial Specialist (PFS). I am licensed to practice before the United States Tax Court, a member of the AICPA and NJSCPA, and serve on the board of a large private foundation.