Packaged microelectronic semiconductor devices and methods for their assembly are described. According to preferred embodiments of the invention, chip-on-lead techniques are adapted to provide chip-on-lead packages using cantilevered leads. Exemplary embodiments of the invention include methods using a temporary brace to support the cantilevered leads during chip mounting. Versatile chip package embodiments are disclosed including those in which the chip mounting pad is smaller than the chip(s) mounted thereupon, and further examples wherein the chip mounting pad is dispensed with and a chip is mounted on the cantilevered leads alone.