Steve helps his clients understand and navigate complex tax, business planning and employee benefits matters to allow them to further their business goals. 

Steve assists clients with business and tax planning matters, including business entity formation and ownership transfers, tax and compensation planning (including executive compensation matters), worker classification, IRC § 1031 exchanges and federal, state and local tax controversies (i.e., audits and appeals). He assists clients in designing and implementing qualified and nonqualified deferred compensation, retirement and welfare benefit plans, advising on plan administration, ERISA compliance and fiduciary issues and correcting operational errors. He also advises clients on the impact of health care reform under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and assists in related planning and compliance matters.

He is a frequent speaker and author on tax and employee benefit matters. Prior to pursuing a law degree, Steve worked as an underwriter of life and disability insurance for employee benefit plans. During this time, he also earned his certification as a Certified Employee Benefit Specialist.

Professional Activities

• Eugene-Springfield Tax Association, Past President
• Oregon State Bar Association, Tax Section, Member
  • Newsletter Committee, 2008-2013
• Western Pension & Benefits Conference, Portland Chapter, Member, 2008-present
  
  • Significant Issues Chair, 2014-2016

Community Activities

• Junior Achievement USA, Volunteer, 2018-present
• Mainspring Portland (fka Fish Emergency Service), Board of Directors
  • Chair, 2007-2015
• St. Rose School
  • Advisory Council, 2018-present
  • Finance Committee, Chair

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