James Gillis

James Gillis is an experienced estate planning attorney whose practice at the Law Office of James A. Gillis, also known as Gillis Law, PLLC, is dedicated to wills, trusts, and estate and trust administration. He works closely with individuals and families to design clear, efficient estate plans that reflect each client’s intentions and long-term goals. His work focuses on how assets are titled, how beneficiaries are designated, and how legal documents function together to ensure smooth future transfers. Mr. Gillis regularly prepares and records real estate deeds nationwide, helping clients align property ownership with their overall estate strategies.

James A. Gillis earned his J.D. (cum laude) from Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law and holds a B.S. (biology) from Villanova University. His academic training provided a strong foundation in legal analysis, precision, and structured planning, which continues to guide his approach to complex estate matters.

Mr. Gillis has built a practice centered on practical guidance and thoughtful planning with more than a decade of focused experience in northern Virginia. Before founding the Law Office of James A. Gillis, also known as Gillis Law, PLLC, he served as a partner in both a large regional law firm in Tysons Corner and a boutique firm in Alexandria, Virginia. He also brings valuable financial insight from earlier work underwriting and originating commercial real estate loans, which strengthens his ability to advise clients on asset structure and transfer decisions.

Mr. Gillis regularly assists executors, administrators, personal representatives, and trustees throughout the estate and trust administration process. He develops clear plans at the outset of administration, helping clients understand available options and make informed decisions. His work includes preparing court accountings and gift and estate tax returns, as well as guiding ongoing trust management.

James Gillis also serves in fiduciary roles when appropriate, providing steady oversight and ensuring that estates and trusts are administered efficiently, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable law. Clients rely on his careful approach to protect assets, reduce risk, and carry out estate plans with clarity and confidence for future generations.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Gillis Law, PLLC
• Member, Virginia Bar Association
• Member, Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Licensed State

• Virginia
• District of Columbia

Education

• Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Villanova University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges