Martha C. Brown is a distinguished attorney in Missouri, renowned for her extensive expertise in elder law and her unwavering commitment to serving the elderly and individuals with special needs. With a legal career spanning over four decades, Brown has significantly influenced elder law practices in Missouri and beyond.
Educational Background and Early Career
Brown earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Vermont in 1976. She then pursued her Juris Doctor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, graduating in 1981. Early in her career, Brown focused on probate matters, including guardianship cases. As her practice evolved, she expanded into Medicare and Medicaid issues, laying the foundation for her specialization in elder law. By 1994, she had established a dedicated elder law practice, addressing estate planning, long-term care planning, Medicaid planning, and end-of-life decision-making.
Professional Achievements and Certifications
Brown is a Certified Elder Law Attorney, accredited by the National Elder Law Foundation. Her firm, Martha C. Brown & Associates, LLC, focuses on the unique legal needs of the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and their families. Throughout her career, Brown has received numerous accolades, including the 2008 Powley Award from the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, recognizing her leadership in promoting the rights and understanding of elders and persons with special needs. She has been consistently designated as a “Super Lawyer” from 2006 to 2021 and named among the “Best Lawyers in America” from 2013 to 2021.
Contributions to Professional Organizations
Brown’s influence extends to various professional affiliations. She is a Fellow of both the American College of Trusts and Estates Counsel and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. As a founding member and past president of the Missouri Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, she has played a pivotal role in shaping elder law practices in the state. Additionally, Brown is a member of the Council of Advanced Practitioners of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and has served on the Missouri Guardianship Statutory Reform Task Force.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Beyond her legal practice, Brown is deeply committed to community service. She has held leadership positions with several organizations, including serving as board president of the Association for Aging with Developmental Disabilities and as a board member of the Mid-East Area Agency on Aging. Her dedication to mental health advocacy is evident through her role as board secretary for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in the St. Louis Chapter.
Client-Centered Approach
Brown’s approach to elder law is characterized by a deep empathy for her clients and a commitment to addressing their unique needs. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the personal and legal challenges faced by the elderly and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that her legal strategies are tailored to provide the best possible outcomes for her clients and their families.
Thought Leadership and Education
As a thought leader in elder law, Brown frequently shares her knowledge through speaking engagements and educational initiatives. She has presented on topics such as special needs trusts, guardianship procedures, and recent developments in elder law. Her contributions to professional development have been recognized by her peers, further solidifying her reputation as an authority in the field.
Conclusion
Martha C. Brown’s distinguished career in elder law is marked by her professional excellence, dedication to her clients, and unwavering commitment to advocacy for the elderly and individuals with special needs. Her contributions have not only advanced the practice of elder law in Missouri but have also provided invaluable support and guidance to countless families navigating the complexities of aging and disability. As a top lawyer in her field, Brown continues to exemplify the highest standards of legal practice and community service.
