Mary Frances is an experienced VA Accredited Elder Law Attorney who focuses her practice on serving individuals and families who are establishing an estate plan, revising an existing estate plan, or dealing with the legal, medical, and financial impacts of aging, chronic illness, and disability. Her practice includes advising on Medicare, Medicaid, veterans benefits, long-term care insurance, estate and tax planning, as well as asset protection for families and individuals with disability and long-term care expenses. She has counseled and advised hundreds of clients on their estate, elder care, and disability plans and provides effective and ethical legal guidance, helping clients make difficult decisions and navigate the complicated issues that arise when dealing with chronic health challenges, disability, and aging.
Mary Frances is accredited to practice before the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and counsels and advises veterans and their families on accessing state and federal VA benefits. She drafted the chapter on veterans benefits for the Elder Law Handbook published by Minnesota Continuing Legal Education.
Mary Frances is a frequent speaker and community educator on a range of estate and elder law issues.
Experience
Credentials
Clerkships
- Honorable Diane M. Hanson, Minnesota District Court, First Judicial District Court
Education
William Mitchell College of Law, J.D.
Purdue University, B.S.
Certifications
- Accredited to practice before the Department of Veterans Affairs
Admissions
- Minnesota
Honors & Recognitions
The Best Lawyers in America (2024)
Minnesota Super Lawyers (2019-present)
Minnesota Rising Stars (2012-2015)
News & Insights
News
Speaking Engagements
Publications
Affiliations
Professional Associations
- Minnesota State Bar Association, Elder Law Section – Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, and Council Member (2012-present)
- Minnesota State Bar Association, Probate, Trusts and Estates Section – Faculty (2012-2022) and Member (2012-present)
- National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Minnesota Chapter – Public Policy Committee and Member
Board Memberships
- Board Member and Pro Bono Committee Chair, Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid
Community Involvement
- Certified USA Swimming Official
- Board of Review, Minnesota Swimming