Joseph E. Tierney, III

Joseph E. Tierney, III is a highly accomplished attorney with over fifty years of experience in tax and corporate law. He has advised clients ranging from business owners to individuals on complex financial and legal strategies, often involving estate assets valued in the eight- and nine-figure range. His practice includes mergers, acquisitions, and entity structuring.

Joseph began his academic journey with a B.A. from Marquette University in 1964. He earned his J.D. from Marquette University Law School in 1966, where he served as Editor-in-Chief of the Marquette Law Review. He later completed an LL.M. in Taxation from New York University in 1967, adding deep technical knowledge to his legal skills.

Joseph’s legal work includes advising companies across industries such as cold storage, software, construction, and manufacturing. He assists clients with tax-efficient planning during every phase of a business, from start-up through operation and succession. His guidance has helped businesses manage personnel issues, compensation plans, and complex financial negotiations.

Joseph also brings a wealth of experience to estate and charitable planning. His work includes the creation of trusts and tax-advantaged strategies for high-value estates. He is skilled in structuring charitable organizations and guiding families in philanthropic efforts, often involving intricate tax considerations.

Joseph is a respected speaker and author, having written over one hundred articles and delivered numerous presentations on tax law. He shares his knowledge as an adjunct professor at Marquette Law School and actively contributes to professional organizations focused on tax and estate planning.

Joseph E. Tierney, III continues to be a trusted legal advisor, blending technical skill with decades of practical experience. He provides clients with clear, effective strategies that meet both business and personal goals, making him a valued leader in his field.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Meissner Tierney Fisher & Nichols S.C.
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, State Bar of Wisconsin
• Member, Milwaukee Bar Association
• Member, Milwaukee Tax Club
• Member, Milwaukee Estate Planning Association

Licensed State

• Wisconsin

Education

• New York University
  Master of Laws (LLM)
• Marquette University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Marquette University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges