Education
- Fitchburg State B.S., Cum Laude
- Pepperdine University School of Law, Juris Doctorate
- University of Florida, College of Law Graduate
- Tax Program, LLM Taxation
Experience
- Michelle joined the firm in 2003 and assumed ownership with her brother, Dan Surprenant, in 2010.
- Before joining the firm, she worked for six years as a senior tax manager for two different Big 4 accounting firms.
- Michelle also worked as a tax attorney lobbying business tax issues for the Connecticut Business and Industry Association.
Community Education & Support
- Lecturer on elder law issues, estate, trust and special needs planning
- Authors articles for Elder Law Today, Blog on myfamilyestateplanning.com, Guide to Retirement & Beyond
- Co-publishes Guide to Retirement & Beyond (Annual)
- Co-authored Protect Your Family! Don’t Write a Blank Check to the Nursing Home, published by Advantage
Memberships / Recognition
- Member of National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Wealth Counsel, Massachusetts Forum of Estate Planning Attorneys
- Serves on the Advisory Board for Coastline Elderly Services, Inc.
- Previously serve on the Board of Directors for Coastline Elderly Services, Inc.
- Adjunct Professor at Suffolk Law School, 2018
- Recipient of the Community Nurse Women’s Star Power Award, 2019
- Named to Thompson Reuters / Boston Magazine’s Super Lawyer® list: 2012, 2013, 2017, 2018, 2019
- Recognized on Top Women Lawyers list by Thomas Reuters / Boston Magazine: 2018, 2019
- Firm recognized with Hope Award from Southcoast Healthcare VNA, 2018
Testimonial
“We were terrifically impressed with Michelle Beneski for her knowledge, her sincere interest in our goals and the respect she showed us, even though we aren’t wealthy! We are grateful to Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes for laying the groundwork with us for an estate plan and look forward to a long relationship with them.”
(M. MacInnis, 2/19)
Michelle D. Beneski has been a driving force in the growth and success of Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C. for over 21 years. Since joining the firm in 2003, she brought with her a wealth of experience honed as a senior tax manager at two prestigious Big 4 accounting firms. This deep understanding of tax law, particularly estate tax, shaped her strategic vision and client-focused approach. In 2010, alongside her brother Daniel M. Surprenant, she assumed ownership, further solidifying the firm’s reputation for excellence.
Michelle is not only an expert in minimizing estate taxes and protecting family assets from the cost of long-term care, but she also strives to be a visionary leader. She has meticulously built a firm culture that prioritizes client well-being and fosters a team of highly skilled professionals. Her commitment extends beyond client advocacy to mentoring and developing the next generation of estate planning and elder law experts. She believes in empowering her team to provide clear guidance, compassionate support, and the best possible outcomes for families facing complex legal and financial challenges.
Michelle’s unique blend of technical expertise, strategic leadership, and genuine care for her clients has positioned Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C. as a trusted partner for families seeking to protect their legacies and secure their futures.
Team Member Since 2004
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What do you do at the firm? Try to describe in 1 – 2 sentences.
I assist clients in achieving their goals. I lead the operations of the law firm.
How would you convey to a prospective client how you participate in the firm’s team approach?
I explain that we have a very experienced and knowledgeable team available to respond to their questions and requests. I explain that while I am often tied up in meetings our team approach allows us to respond to their needs quickly.
What are your personal values that drive you?
Kindness, empathy, and sincerity.
What are 3 positive words you think people might use to describe you?
Kind, Hardworking, Generous
Do you have a personal motto or favorite quote?
Treat others as you would want to be treated.
What do you want our clients to know about you?
I have four children, two puppies, and one husband, Joe married for 30 years. I find history fascinating. I have researched my family genealogy back 7 generations on both sides. I love old houses and old pictures.
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