Stephen “Steve” P. Schmidt

Describe defining moments in your career:

A major defining moment in my career was when I truly began to understand the power in the right tools and processes that could be used to protect not only the client, but also the clients’ families from blended family issues, to unnecessary court supervision, to losing assets to the nursing home. The other aspect I truly enjoy is that of helping others clarify the legacy they want to leave for their family and charities. I have spent my professional career as an estate planning attorney, trust officer and planned giving officer.

Discuss how you relate to clients / your approach to handling your work:

I help clients get peace of mind about the future uncertainties of loss of mental capacity, end of life situations, asset protection, family protection and financial and non-financial legacy.

Describe the personal skills that make you great at your job:

I have great ability to understand the concerns and needs of clients and how to use their unique circumstances to put together a plan that uses the best tools to meet their unique goals. I can take complicated laws and strategies and describe them to clients in a manner that lets them understand the benefits to them and enough of the process to avoid or minimize unpleasant surprises.

Tell us about yourself, i.e. where you grew up, went to school, hobbies & other non-work activities, etc.:

I grew up in Lincoln and Central City, Nebraska and have lived my whole life in Nebraska and Iowa. My wife Faye and I have four kids who are all out of college and we have four grandchildren including triplets. I enjoy hiking, playing basketball, watching Nebraska football, Creighton basketball, playing board games and reading.

Are you involved in the community? If so, please explain:

I have generally been involved in the local church through music, kids’ ministry, outreach programs and church planting. I am a Past President of the Grace University Alumni Association. I have held various leadership and political involvements.

Area(s) of Expertise

• Estate planning
• Medicaid and general asset protection planning
• Charitable planned giving
• Business succession planning