John Lynham

John Lynham is a dedicated estates and trusts attorney based in Offit Kurman's Bethesda, Maryland office, bringing extensive knowledge and experience to his practice. As a member of the Estates and Trusts Practice Group, he focuses on the intricate realms of estate and trust planning and administration, deftly addressing challenges related to estate, generation-skipping, gift, and income taxation. John also navigates real estate transactions and facilitates the formation of tax-exempt organizations, including foundations, ensuring clients receive tailored legal solutions that meet their specific needs.

With a proven track record, John represents clients in matters of estate planning, including administration, tax savings, asset protection, business succession, and philanthropic strategies. He has successfully defended wills and trusts in local courts and manages audits and compliance issues before the IRS, the District of Columbia, and various state authorities. Notable achievements include obtaining the admission of a decedent's will to probate after the original was destroyed in a break-in, defending estate plans from challenges of undue influence, and employing innovative strategies like defective grantor trusts to transfer business interests free of transfer taxes.

John's academic credentials reflect his commitment to excellence. He holds a Master of Laws in Taxation from Georgetown University Law Center, a Juris Doctor from The George Washington University Law School, an MBA in Finance from the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business, and a Bachelor of Science from Trinity College-Hartford.

His dedication to the field has not gone unnoticed. John has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Trusts and Estates Law and Litigation from 2006 to 2025 and holds an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell®. He has also been named to the Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers® list from 2013 to 2021, underscoring his influence and respect within the legal community.

Beyond his practice, John plays an active role in shaping probate and fiduciary practices, serving on the D.C. Superior Court Advisory Committee on Probate and Fiduciary Rules and previously being a member of the D.C. Bar's Estates, Trusts, and Probate Steering Committee. His commitment to community service is demonstrated through his involvement with various charitable boards and his guidance in forming and operating nonprofit organizations.

With a blend of legal acumen and a genuine passion for helping others, John is a steadfast advocate in estate and trust law, ensuring his clients are well-equipped to navigate their financial and personal futures.