Barrett McNagny LLP: Stephen L. Chapman – Fort Wayne, IN

Strategic Estate and Business Counsel

Stephen L. Chapman is a distinguished partner at Barrett McNagny LLP, one of Northern Indiana’s oldest and most prestigious law firms. Based in downtown Fort Wayne, Stephen Chapman has built a robust practice focused on the intersection of family wealth and business strategy. With a deep understanding of tax codes and legal structures, he serves as a trusted advisor to business owners, executives, and families seeking to preserve their legacy. His affiliation with Barrett McNagny, a firm with roots dating back to 1876, allows him to leverage the resources of a full-service legal team while providing the personalized attention of a dedicated specialist. 💼

Estate Planning and Administration

Stephen Chapman’s primary focus is Estate Planning. He assists clients in navigating the complexities of transferring wealth to the next generation while minimizing tax liabilities. His services include:

• Wills and Trusts: Drafting sophisticated revocable and irrevocable trusts to protect assets and avoid probate. 📜
• Tax Planning: Advising on federal and state estate taxes, gift taxes, and generation-skipping transfer taxes.
• Probate Administration: Guiding executors and personal representatives through the settlement of estates with efficiency and sensitivity.

Business Succession and Corporate Law

For business owners, the line between personal and professional assets is often blurred. Stephen Chapman specializes in Business Succession Planning, helping entrepreneurs create exit strategies that ensure the longevity of their companies. He assists with:

• Entity Formation: Advising on the best legal structures (LLC, S-Corp, Family Limited Partnerships) for tax efficiency and liability protection. 🏢
• Buy-Sell Agreements: Drafting contracts that define how business interests are handled in the event of death, disability, or retirement.
• Corporate Governance: Counseling boards and management on fiduciary duties and regulatory compliance.

A Tradition of Excellence

Stephen Chapman is recognized for his pragmatic approach and his ability to explain complex legal concepts in plain English. He is an active member of the legal community and has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America. His clients appreciate his foresight and his dedication to creating plans that stand the test of time. If you need to find a lawyer who can handle both your sophisticated business needs and your personal estate planning, Stephen L. Chapman is a premier choice in Fort Wayne.

Downtown Fort Wayne Location

The firm is headquartered in the Barrett McNagny Building on East Berry Street. This central location places it in the heart of the city’s legal and financial district, directly across from the Ash Skyline Plaza and near the Allen County Courthouse.