Meet Our Team: Paula L. Tennant, CPA

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Hi, I’m Paula!

I’m an estate administration paralegal and team lead at Relational Estate & Elder Law. My role is to help families navigate the practical and financial details that come after losing someone they love. With a long background in accounting, tax strategy, and financial planning, I bring both technical know-how and a steady, compassionate support to the estate administration process.

Day to day, I work side by side with executors and trustees as they move through each step of settling an estate. Whether I’m helping organize financial information, traveling with clients to court, or coordinating beneficiary distributions and asset transfers with brokers, my goal is to make the process feel a little less overwhelming during a very tender time. While our practice doesn’t provide tax preparation, I’m always happy to talk through tax questions related to the decedent and the estate. Above all, I am passionate about helping clients feel informed, supported, and confident as they navigate aging, loss, and the future.

Before I joined Relational Estate & Elder Law in 2021, I spent many years in accounting and tax services. I ran my own CPA practice for more than 15 years, focusing on individual and small business needs as well as state and local tax consulting. Over the years, I also worked with Shentel, American Woodmark, Software AG of North America, and Arthur Andersen & Co., experiences that strengthened my foundation in tax compliance, audit support, financial systems, and strategic planning.

I’ve also had the chance to work closely with small businesses, nonprofits, and high-net-worth individuals through consulting and financial coaching. That mix of experiences helps me bring a practical, grounded perspective to the families I serve.

Outside of work, I love getting outdoors—walking, jogging, gardening, and hiking whenever I can. I’m also learning more about golf, pickleball, and disc golf. Being involved in my church community, including small groups like the choir, is something I truly enjoy. And most of all, I love doing these things with my grown children—Faith, Ben, Matthew, and Josh.

I’m really grateful to be part of the Relational Estate & Elder Law team, and it’s a privilege to walk alongside the clients and families we serve.

Education

  • B.S. degree in Accounting from George Mason University
  • B.S. degree in Business Management from George Mason University

Certifications

  • Certified Public Accountant – American Institute of Certified Public Accountants