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Steven William Brown

Estate planning Attorney at Salina, KS

4.9   41 reviews
  • State Years
    Nebraska - NE 7 years
    Missouri - MO 17 years
    Kansas - KS 44 years
  • Licensed for 7 years
    State NE
    Acquired 2015
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 17 years
    State MO
    Acquired 2006
    Status
    Good Standing, Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 44 years
    State KS
    Acquired 1979
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Steven

Learn Steven’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Estate planning
    90%
    Brown & Vogel, Chartered is dedicated to counseling-oriented estate planning with their clients and their clients’ other professional advisors. Our founder and President, Steven W. Brown, is licensed to practice law in Kansas and Missouri. He is a member of the WealthCounsel, LLC, a national group of more than 1,000 attorneys that emphasize counseling in the transfer of wealth within a family. He is a charter member of LifeSpan Legal Servicesâ„¢.

  2. Business
    10%

At Brown & Vogel, Steven W. Brown is the president and co-founder of the firm. Backed by over 35 years of experience, he is intimately familiar with all aspects of Kansas estate law. He primarily focuses his efforts on business succession planning and estate planning. Steve loves the challenge of helping his clients solve complicated problems, and he can help you solve yours, too. One of his most useful talents is explaining complex concepts to his clients in easy-to-understand language. He graduated from University of Kansas, earning both his undergraduate degree and Juris Doctorate there. Steve has given countless presentations to other attorneys, professionals, and financial advisors. He is also a contributing author to two books. You can trust Steve to provide you with the effective legal services you need and deserve. As a skilled estate planning attorney in Salina, he can help you with all your needs.

 

EDUCATION           Junction City High School, 1972; University of Kansas, 1976, B.S. Accounting/Business Administration with distinction; University of Kansas, 1979, Juris Doctorate.

 

 

PROFESSIONAL     2000 to present - President of Brown & Vogel, LLC, Salina, Kansas;1996 to 1999 - President of Steven W. Brown, Chartered, Salina, Kansas; 1991 to 1995 - Shareholder in law firm of Clark, Mize & Linville, Chartered, Salina, Kansas; 1982-90 - Shareholder in law firm of King, Adrian, King & Brown, Chartered, Salina, Kansas;1981-82 - Arthur Young & Company, Dallas, Texas; 1979-81 - Associate, Hoover, Schermerhorn, Edwards & Pinaire, Junction City, Kansas.  Member of the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys, Incorporated, 1997 to 2002; Member of Welath Counsel 2002 to present; Chartered member of Lifespan Legal Services™; Graduate of Master’s Program in Wealth Strategies Planning® through the Esperti Peterson Institute, as accredited by the Estate and Wealth Strategies Institute at Michigan State University; Contributory author to Strictly Business, Planning Strategies for Privately Owned Businesses, published in 2002 by Quantum Press; Contributory author to Love, Money, Control: Reinventing Estate Planning, a book that provides answers to questions about transferring wisdom along with wealth, published in 2004 by Quantum Press. 

 

Martindale-Hubbel rating - “AV”

 

Listed in 1995-1996 edition of The Best Lawyers in America

 

Bar Associations:  American Bar Association; Kansas Bar        Association; Northwest Kansas Bar Association; Saline-Ottawa County Bar Association.  

 

Bar Committees:  Kansas Bar Association: Chairperson of Kansas Bar Association Continuing Legal Education Committee (1995-1997); President of Real Estate, Probate and Trust Law Section of KansasBar Association (1989-1993); Kansas Bar Association Real Estate,Probate and Trust Law Section CLE Liaison (1990-1997); Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee (1989-1993); Saline County Civil Process Committee and Trustee of Saline County Law Library.

 

Kansas Bar Association Activities:  Author and speaker, Kansas Bar Association seminar “Living Trust Drafting” – 1991; Author and speaker, Kansas Bar Association seminar “How to Draft a Revocable Living Trust” – 1988; Speaker, Kansas Bar Association seminar “Protecting Assets from Creditors and Post-Death Implications” – 1989; 1992 - Speaker, Nebraska Bar Association, A Medical and Legal Perspective on the Durable Power of Attorney; 1992 - Speaker, Kansas Bar Association satellite “Elder Law Seminar” 1994 - Speaker, Kansas Bar Association seminar “Estate Administration”; Speaker, Kansas Bar Association seminar on Estate Planning for Disability and Tax Issues; Speaker, The Western Kansas Council on Estate Planning & Gifting seminar “Health Care Directives” - 1995; Fellow of the Kansas Bar Foundation; Continuing Legal Education Seminar Coordinator for several programs, including Plaza Lights Institute, Best of Continuing Legal Education and other probate and trust related seminars; Speaker, National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys seminar “The Truth About Estate Planning”; Outstanding Service Award, Kansas Bar Association as chair of the Continuing Legal Education Committee, - 1998; Instructor of the Estate Planning Practicum, an intensive week long training course for members of the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys, Incorporated; Speaker for Kansas Land Improvement Contractors Association Convention; Speaker for Kansas Accountants Tax Conference; Speaker for Kansas Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors.

CIVIC                        Member of Board of Directors of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc.(2000-02); President (1992) and member of Board of Directors of Salina Chamber of Commerce, 1989-92; Treasurer, The Saint Francis Academy (1992); Board of Trustees of Salina Public Library; Treasurer of Salina Public Library, 1988; President (1990-91) and member of Board of Directors of Salina Art Center, Inc., 1986-92; Campaign Chairman of Salina United Way Campaign, 1989; President of Salina Chapter of Ducks Unlimited, 1987-88; Member of Board of Directors of Salina Downtown Lions Club, 1985-88; President of Salina Country Club, 2008, and member of Board of Directors of Salina Country Club, 1993-95 and 2005-2009.  Member of Board of Directors of Kansas Wildscape.

 

CHURCH                  Roman Catholic. Founder and member of Board of Directors of St. Mary’s Grade School Endowment Fund, 1988; Member of St. Mary’s Grade School Council, 1985-89; Member of Finance Council of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish; Member of the The Roman Catholic Diocese of Salina Finance Council, Member of Board of Trustees of Catholic Charities (2002 – 2008).

Photos and videos

Contact Steven

Brown & Vogel, LLC
2035 E. Iron Avenue
Suite 101
Salina, KS, 67401
Brown & Vogel, LLC
200 W. 49th Street, R-907
Kansas City, MO, 64112
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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  41 customer reviews
5 Star
 
93%
4 Star
 
7%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Posted by anonymous | December 9, 2014
A great attorney
We were very pleased with our estate planning process. We are very comfortable with this office handling our affairs.
Posted by Daniel | December 8, 2014
Draw up Trust
Knowledgeable about what is needed to start a trust. As we are new to this, we pretty much rely on Steve to guide us through the process. So far thing seem to be going fine.
Posted by Jason | December 8, 2014
Estate Planning
Steve Brown and his employees guided my Wife and I through the process of our estate planning with ease. Because we are relatively young forty somethings we were unsure of the need to do estate/trust planning but after our initial consultation we decided to move forward. Steve and his staff made the entire process enjoyable and they were open to approaching certain parts of the planning process quickly for us when asked since we are not as concerned about certain areas because of our age. The follow up by JoVonna and her hard work even made some of the not so enjoyable parts of procuring documents from our estate feel like small victories each time we checked off another item. Overall we are very happy we chose to use Steve and his team of professionals.
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Posted by Judi | August 22, 2012
Clarity and humor
Steve and his staff have made the entire estate planning process understandable and useful - which can get convoluted with children ('his-mine-ours') and ex-spouses. He presents topics and issues in a clear, logical manner with a sense of humor that keeps you interested in what he has to say.
Posted by Charles | May 6, 2012
Excellent choice
Well informed in Estate planning and keeping us current with "todays" laws.
Posted by Laurie | April 15, 2012
Tried and True
We watched the LifeSpan program execute as advertised when a dear friend died of cancer several years back. Her grieving husband was well-advised by Steve's firm, the trust executed as planned, and everything went just as Steve had been telling us it would. Our friend has now remarried, and remains a member of the LifeSpan family, executed by Brown and Vogel. What better testament than that to tout a program's effectiveness? Love the "mandatories". Steve makes sure we do OUR part, so that when the time comes, HE can do his part to protect our assets and loved ones.
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Posted by Jim | April 15, 2012
Steve Brown; Estate Planning
Outstanding. Steve is always available; always makes your concerns his top priority. He stays totally up to date on the latest laws and what State and Federal government trends are. Great at explaining legalese in plain english and there is never any doubt that he has your best interests in mind. Steve is also always available to discuss unusual circumstances and special cases. His reviews are top notch and timely.
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Posted by Kenneth | March 19, 2012
Trust establishment and maintenance
For years we have worked with and trusted a financial planning organization. They recommended that we should establish trusts to assure that the benefits of our financial plan will go to our beneficiaries in an efficient and cost effective manner. The trust making program advocated by Steve's firm has been very thorough. It is regularly updated to adhere to the stipulations in the "law" which affect the trust. Great emphasis has been placed on not only establishing a trust, but also in understanding the process. However, the program has sought to assure that not only will we have a financial legacy, but we will also leave a legacy of our beliefs, our lives, and our aspirations which we hope will benefit our children and their children. While no religious affiliation is espoused by the firm, a Christian essence can be perceived. In a small way, we hope that through this program, at least one family (ours) can carry on a tradition of love and respect for each other, a devotion to principles, and, thereby, avoid the trend to dissolution of the "traditional" family unit. The effectiveness of our trust making will only be realized upon our deaths, but while we are still kicking, we are comforted by our confidence that Steve, as a lawyer and as a person, has our best interests at heart. As an aside, with respect to the question: "When did you last hire this attorney?" This has been an ongoing relationship for almost 10 years. There has not been a "single" episode of litigation for which he was "hired".
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Posted by Mike | February 26, 2012
Absolutely the very best!!
Simply an outstanding asset to anyone concerned with succession planning. Thoroughly understands the legal requirements and the interpersonal relationships which affect estate planning and management. A complete professional at explaining the why's and wherefore's of an estate. Employs a professional staff that works constantly for their clients. I have complete trust in this firm and I specifically have the utmost respect and trust for Steve Brown. Mike
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Posted by Kenny & Anastasia | February 14, 2012
Estate Planning
Steve and his staff are very efficient, courteous, and great to work with. We really like the workshops and Lifespan annual reviews. He is very knowledgeable and kind.
Posted by John | February 10, 2012
Very competent
I have known Steve for over 30 years, he has helped direct me in my business, any legal issues, and my finacial planing. In fact he was the person who helped get me started with a formal retirement plan over 30 years ago. Since I retired he has suppervised all my estate planing. That piece of mind allows me to pursue more fun activities. Thanks Steve!
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Posted by Jean | February 5, 2012
Value of the Lifespan Method
The value of the Lifespan system Mr. Brown executes has given me and my family peace of mind. The regular interaction keep us up to date and on the leading edge of estate planning.
Posted by Jay | February 3, 2012
Estate Planning
We have been clients of Steve Brown for about 3 years. We were advised by our financial planner to look into estate planning, and he recommended Steve. We have found that Steve's update briefings to be useful and informative. Steve has an easy manner that allows us to understand the intricacies of estate planning. He also uses entertaining stories to get his points across.
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Posted by Shonda | January 31, 2012
Knowledgable Attorney
Steve is a very knowledgable attorney. He makes sure you understand each concept before he goes on to another subject. He is also a caring man who likes to get to know his clients. He feels this makes him a better attorney and I agree. I have recommended Steve to my family members and would recommend him to you also.
Posted by Mary | January 19, 2012
Estate Planning Lawyer
Steve provides his clients with valuable information. He continues to keep us up dated. He is excellent in keeping our paperwork up to date. He holds valuable informorational meetings to keep us updated on the changing tax laws. He continues to be my lawyer and will handle my estate when the time comes.
Posted by Harland | January 12, 2012
Estate Planning
Steve has been very helpful with my Estate Planning. His staff is very professional and courteous. He works very hard to make sure that our trust is always up to date.
Posted by Tina and Bryan | January 9, 2012
Our Estate Planner
Upon the recommendation of our financial advisor, we engaged Brown and Vogel for estate planning and asset protection services. My husband and I found our discussions with Steve Brown to be very entertaining and informative (a tough thing to accomplish when talking about your future demise). His annual updates reinforce our knowledge with respect to current topics in his field of expertise. The Brown and Vogel team is phenomenal. They are exceptionally well organized and help the practice run very smoothly. I feel confident that when the need arises, the handling of our estate will be less complicated than it otherwise would have been.
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Posted by Kerry | January 8, 2012
Trustee
Steve handled my parent's estate. It was a farm with 7 heirs. We are all still speaking -- after the division. I give Steve and his firm all the credit for that. He kept that goal in mind over all else and we are very grateful.
Posted by James Shildmyer | January 7, 2012
Steve's work for us
His work for us with LifeSpan has always been imformative and excellently presented. We feel very comfortable that with his handling our estate plans are in excellent shape
Posted by William | January 7, 2012
Excellent Performance
I have been a trust account client of Steves for several years. He is forthcoming and responsive to all of my requests. Very knowledgeable and up to date on current federal and local tax laws. Adds humor and real life examples to hold clients interest during presentations and seminars.
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Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • President
  • Brown & Vogel, LLC
  • 2000 - Present
  • President
  • Steven W. Brown, Chartered
  • 1996 - 1999
  • Shareholder
  • Clark, Mize & Linville, Chartered
  • 1991 - 1995
  • Shareholder
  • King, Adrian, King & Brown, Chartered
  • 1982 - 1990
  • Attorney
  • Arthur Young & Company
  • 1982 - 1982
  • Associate
  • Hoover, Schermerhorn, Edwards & Pinaire
  • 1979 - 1981
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Kansas School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1979
  • University of Kansas
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1976
  • Esperti Peterson Institute, as accredited by the Estate and Wealth Strategies Institute at Michican State University
  • Masters Degree
  • N/A

Associations

  • WealthCounsel
  • Member
  • 2002 - Present
  • Kansas Bar Association, Continuing Legal Education Committee
  • Member, Past President
  • 1995 - Present
  • Saline-Ottawa County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1994 - Present
  • Northwest Kansas Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1994 - Present
  • Kansas Bar Association, Real Estate, Probate, and Trust Law Section
  • Member, Past President
  • 1989 - Present
  • Lifespan Legal Services; Graduate of Master's Program in Wealth Strategies Planning® through the Esperti Peterson Institute, as accredited by the Estate and Wealth Strategies Institute at Michigan State University
  • Chartered Member
  • N/A
  • Kansas Bar Association
  • Fellow
  • N/A
  • National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys, Incorporated
  • Member
  • 1997 - 2002
  • Kansas Bar Association, Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee
  • Member
  • 1989 - 1993
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent Rating
  • Marindale-Hubbel
  • 2012
  • Kansas City, MO 2010 Five Star Wealth Manager
  • Wealth Manager
  • 2010
  • Recognized
  • The Best Lawyers in America
  • 1996

Publications

  • Quantum Press publication
  • Love, Money, Control: Reinventing Estate Planning
  • 2004
  • Quantum Press publication
  • Strictly Business, Planning Strategies for Privately Owned Businesses
  • 2002

Speaking Engagements

  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Nuts 'N Bolts 1 (Overview)
  • 2015
  • Farm Bureau Valentine Convention
  • Estate Plans and Taxation Changes
  • 2015
  • LifeSpan Learning Solutions
  • Stand Alone Retirement Trusts
  • 2015
  • Western Kansas Council on Estate Planning & Gifting Seminar
  • Health Care Directives
  • 1995
  • Kansas Bar Association
  • Estate Administration
  • 1994
  • Nebraska State Bar Association
  • A Medical and Legal Perspective on the Durable Power of Attorney
  • 1992
  • Kansas Bar Association
  • Elder Law Seminar
  • 1992
  • Kansas Bar Association Seminar
  • Lilving Trust Drafting
  • 1991
  • Kansas Bar Association Seminar
  • Protecting Assets from Creditor and Post-Death Implications
  • 1989
  • Kansas Bar Association Seminar
  • How to Draft A Revocable Living Trust
  • 1988
  • The Truth About Estate Planning
  • Estate Planning
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Creating Your Personal Legacy Declaration
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Article by Article and Operators Manual Review
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Asset Protection Planning
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Retirement Plan Review
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Nuts 'N Bolts II (Trustee Training)
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Nuts 'N Bolts III
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Advance Planning Strategies in Era of Fed Est Tax Repeal
  • N/A
  • LifeSpan Learning Solution
  • Issues Facing Financial Professionals CU Retirement and Beyond
  • N/A
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (2)
Given (1)
Endorse Steven
Estate planning Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Steve for nearly 20 years through the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys. I have had the privilege of teaching a number of 3 day Continuing Legal Education workshops with Steve and have always been particularly impressed with both his technical expertise and the caring and compassionate manner in which he counsels his clients. Steve is a lawyer that will take the time to ensure his clients understand how their estate plans work and goes the extra mile of providing a formal estate plan maintenance program that provides ongoing education, counseling and updates to legal documents. He is most committed to creating estate plans that accomplish the goals for which they were put in place. He is both a colleague and friend for whom I give the highest endorsement."
Business Attorney | Oct 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Estate planning

Avvo Contributions

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Salina Estate planning Lawyer Steven William Brown
Steven William Brown
Estate planning Attorney
Salina, KS
Licensed for 44 years