At Montana Elder Law, we believe every family deserves to feel secure about the future.
That’s why our mission is simple: to utilize every applicable law and opportunity to protect your assets, ensure your wishes are honored, and safeguard the dignity of aging for you and your loved ones.
Every family’s situation is unique, and we treat it that way. We listen to your story and create personalized solutions that meet your specific needs.
We know legal planning can feel overwhelming, especially during difficult times. Our team is here to walk you through the process with care and understanding.
With years of experience in elder law, estate planning, and Medicaid planning, we stay ahead of legal complexities so you don’t have to.
From Missoula to Billings, we’re proud to serve families across our state, protecting the legacies and values that make Montana home.
Meet the faces behind Montana Elder Law that are passionate about bringing your dreams and vision to life.
Steve Darty
CEO/Attorney
Steve founded Montana Elder Law in 2012 to provide Montanans with a different kind of legal experience—one that prioritizes the client over the law firm. His focus on flat fees, clear communication, and client-centered solutions has become the foundation of the firm’s mission: “To utilize every applicable law and opportunity to protect the assets, peace of mind, and dignity of aging for Montanans.”
Steve is a regular columnist for The Missoulian on estate planning and elder law topics and a sought-after speaker in the field. Outside of work, his greatest pride is his 14-year-old son, Gus, who often joins him for adventures in Montana’s stunning wilderness. Whether fishing, hiking, or just enjoying time together, Steve values the moments that truly make Montana home.
Education:
Stefan Kolis
Managing Attorney
Stefan’s journey into the legal field began through AmeriCorps, where he helped low-income Montanans navigate civil cases. After earning his law degree, he joined Montana Elder Law in 2017, focusing on estate planning, probate, and Special Needs Trusts. Stefan is passionate about helping middle-class families protect their most cherished assets and ensuring individuals with disabilities maintain their access to vital benefits.
A Havre native, Stefan’s love for Montana runs deep. When he’s not helping families secure their futures, you’ll find him exploring the state’s wild spaces, fly fishing, mountain biking, or hiking in the backcountry.
Makenzi Mansfield
Attorney
Makenzi’s relationship with Montana Elder Law started at the front desk, but her commitment to helping families brought her back in 2022 as an attorney. She now focuses on probate, estate administration, and elder law, guiding families through some of life’s toughest transitions.
A fifth-generation Montanan, Makenzi grew up showing horses across the U.S. and Canada. Today, she still enjoys training and competing with her horses while spending time on her ranch with her husband and their Border Collie. Whether floating Montana’s rivers or adventuring close to home, Makenzi cherishes her roots and her community.
Kai Puhrmann
Attorney
Kai’s legal career has been shaped by diverse experiences, from working on criminal appeals with the Montana Innocence Project to running his own estate planning practice. He joined Montana Elder Law to be part of a collaborative team, focusing on creating estate plans that bring families peace of mind.
Before his legal career, Kai owned and operated successful businesses in the construction industry and served as a firefighter/EMT for the DNRC and U.S. Forest Service. These roles taught him the value of teamwork, resilience, and service—principles he brings to every client interaction. In his free time, Kai enjoys fishing, exploring ghost towns, and finding Montana’s hidden hot springs.
Tammie Lund Smith
Paralegal
Tammie has over 35 years of experience in elder law, probate, and estate planning. Her focus is always on the clients, offering a compassionate ear and knowledgeable support during difficult times. She has also been instrumental in shaping Montana’s legal landscape, testifying before the legislature and helping draft laws to improve access to justice.
Tammie is deeply rooted in family, spending her free time camping and boating with her husband, seven children, and growing number of grandchildren. She also serves as a caretaker for her mother, reflecting her lifelong dedication to supporting those she loves.
Joyce Statton Medicaid
Paralegal
Joyce’s 30 years with the Department of Justice, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, prepared her to assist families with Medicaid applications and conservatorships. Her deep understanding of the system and compassionate approach make her an invaluable resource for families navigating complex decisions.
When she’s not helping clients, Joyce enjoys relaxing with her grandchildren, tending to her garden, and spending hours on jigsaw puzzles and cross-stitch projects.
Gen MacDonald
Legal Assistant
Originally from Detroit, Gen discovered Montana on a road trip and instantly knew it was home. She combines her love of writing and her desire to help people in her work at Montana Elder Law, ensuring every client feels supported and understood.
In her free time, Gen takes full advantage of Montana’s beauty, whether she’s hiking, biking, rafting, or simply enjoying life outdoors.
Pearl Minhinnick
Client Relations
Pearl’s background in early childhood development and Montessori teaching instilled her with patience, kindness, and a knack for creating a positive environment. She moved to Montana with her daughter during the pandemic, drawn to the state’s beauty and sense of community.
When she’s not connecting with clients, Pearl enjoys powerlifting, exploring Montana’s outdoors, and spending quality time with her family.
Dianna (Dee) Sternberg
Case Manager
Dee’s career spans 20 years with the Department of Justice and a lifetime of compassionate service, including 22 years as a hospice volunteer. Her work in law enforcement communications and Medicaid fraud investigations has given her the tools to assist clients with empathy and precision.
In her free time, Dee enjoys music therapy, exploring Montana’s natural beauty, and cherishing memories of her unique experiences living on two lighthouses.
Silke Jauck
Case Manager
Originally from Germany, Silke’s adventurous spirit has taken her to nearly 50 countries, but Missoula is where she feels most at home. Her diverse background in pharmaceuticals, political science, and personal assistance makes her a perfect fit for supporting clients at Montana Elder Law.
Silke loves hiking, birding, and volunteering for conservation efforts, as well as exploring Montana’s breathtaking landscapes.
Taylor Cooney
Front Desk
A fifth-generation Montanan, Taylor ensures every client feels welcome from the moment they step into the office. With a background in psychology and business, she brings a thoughtful and organized approach to her role at Montana Elder Law.
In her free time, Taylor enjoys skiing, hiking, and reading—always ready to discover a new favorite book.
At Montana Elder Law, we understand that planning for the future can feel overwhelming.
Whether you’re creating an estate plan, navigating probate, or securing long-term care for a loved one, these decisions are deeply personal.
That’s why we’re here to guide you. We pride ourselves on offering straightforward advice, compassionate service, and practical solutions tailored to your unique needs.
With offices in Missoula and services spanning the entire state, we are proud to serve families across Montana. We believe in building long-lasting relationships based on trust, care, and a commitment to protecting your legacy.
