Founded in 1938, Donahoo & McMenamy, P.A. has become a leading firm in tax law, pioneering a rich legacy of expertise and commitment to client services. As Florida’s first dedicated tax law firm, it blends legal and accounting knowledge to provide comprehensive solutions for individuals and businesses navigating the complexities of tax law and estate planning.
1938
Founded
Established
Ernest W. Mitchell and John A. Donahoo founded the law firm of Mitchell and Donahoo in Jacksonville, Florida.
Pioneering Focus
Mitchell became known as “Florida’s first tax attorney,” working directly with revenue agents to set Florida property values post-ratification of the 16th Amendment.
1939-1954
Legislative Milestones
Specialization in Tax Law
The firm committed exclusively to tax law, becoming Florida’s first dedicated tax law firm.
Increased Complexity
Major legislation heightened the need for sophisticated tax planning.
1966
Second Generation
Thomas Mitchell Donahoo Joins
John Donahoo’s son, after receiving his Master of Laws in Taxation from NYU, begins practicing alongside his father.
Father-Son Partnership
Established one of Jacksonville’s first father-son law offices, enriching client relationships and perspectives on legal matters, including estate planning and taxation.
1986
Expansion of Expertise
William B. McMenamy Joins
In 1986, William B. McMenamy, an attorney and CPA, joined the firm. With years of public accounting experience behind him, McMenamy helped mold the firm’s reputation for having solid accounting and financial expertise to complement the law practice.
Integrated Approach
The firm’s team continued to build the firm’s reputation for merging legal and fiscal knowledge, providing services like in-house tax return preparation to streamline client financial planning.
1994
Third Generation
Thomas Mitchell Donahoo, Jr. Enters
In 1994, Thomas Mitchell Donahoo, Jr., representing a third generation, began his practice with the firm.
Today
Ongoing Commitment
Personalized services
Donahoo & McMenamy maintains a focus on responsive legal services in estate planning, tax planning for individuals and businesses, and representation before the IRS and Florida Department of Revenue.
Influence on Florida’s Tax Landscape
For nearly a century, Donahoo & McMenamy has acquired the unique perspective of working with many generations of families to navigate the intricacies of the Internal Revenue Code.