Denise Stern’s Practice
MBCS is honored to welcome the clients of Denise Stern, who has served Portland—particularly the Sellwood neighborhood—for over 30 years with a focus on estate planning, business law, and real estate. Denise earned her law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law (1985) after completing her undergraduate studies at SUNY Albany. She was admitted to the Washington State Bar in 1986 and the Oregon State Bar in 1988.
Her career began at the Washington State Court of Appeals, followed by work at a large Portland firm before opening her own practice in 1995. Known for her meticulous, client-focused approach, Denise built a reputation as a trusted authority in wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.
She continues to consult with MBCS to ensure a smooth transition for her clients, who can now access our services at 2121 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 303, Portland—featuring dedicated, wheelchair-accessible parking.
Denise Stern, Estate Planning Consultant
McGinty, Belcher, Conner & Smith
A Commitment to Excellence
Attorney Kevin Conner proudly carry forward the legacy of two well-established and respected elder law and estate planning practices in Oregon. He has joined with McGinty & Belcher in Salem, as well as with the office of Denise Stern in Portland, whose long-standing practice was located in the Sellwood neighborhood. For over 35 years, both firms have been dedicated to serving their communities with compassion, integrity, and personalized legal guidance.
Today, McGinty, Belcher, Conner, & Smith continues that tradition, offering experienced, client-focused service to families across the Willamette Valley and beyond.
McGinty & Belcher
For over 35 years, Richard McGinty and Kathy Belcher served the Salem and Keizer communities, offering trusted legal services in Social Security, disability, elder law, estate planning, probate, and more.
Their longstanding office at 694 High Street NE in Salem, Oregon, now continues under the name Merkel, Conner, McGinty & Smith.
We are honored to carry on their legacy of compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation.
Richard McGinty
A U.S. Army veteran and Willamette Law School graduate, now retired, Rich’s practice focused on Social Security law and Veterans benefits. Rich remains an honorary member of the McGinty, Belcher, Conner & Smith team.
Kathy Belcher
Kathy began her legal career as a paralegal for Richard McGinty, who encouraged her to pursue law school. Kathy graduated from Willamette Law School and found her passion for elder law and estate planning.
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