Deborah L. Jacobs

On Halloween of 2008, lawyer and award-winning journalist Deborah L. Jacobs made the decision to self-publish her latest book, Estate Planning Smarts. The book is now in the fourth edition and has become what one reviewer called “a category killer.”

In a career that has spanned more than three decades, Deborah has practiced law, been a syndicated newspaper columnist, a newsletter editor and a frequent contributor to many national publications, including The New York Times, Bloomberg Wealth Manager and Businessweek. Most recently a senior editor at Forbes Media, with a popular blog covering personal finance, careers, and life transitions, she has inspired others with what she describes as a “very unconventional but very rich” career. “My bucket list has enough items to last more than another lifetime,” she says. “The word ‘boredom’ is not part of my vocabulary.”

Combining real-life stories with practical advice, Deborah deftly explains the ins and outs of estate planning and tackles the emotional issues, too. She also offers great practice-building strategies for financial advisers. Following her appearances, listeners gather around her to chat. Some say they feel like they’re sitting at the kitchen table with a very knowledgeable, trusted friend. She has addressed audiences of consumers, students, and professionals.Programs for professionals include suggestions about how to offer a value added to clients, and can qualify for continuing education credit.

A graduate of Barnard and Columbia’s Law School and Graduate School of Journalism, Deborah lives in New York City with her husband and son.

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