About Steven M
Steven M Berger built a career that pairs a technical undergraduate background with a later entry into the law. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1972 with a B.S. in economics and management. Years later he returned to school and earned his J.D. from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law in 1990. That same year he joined the Maryland legal community and began practicing in the state.
His legal résumé traces a series of counsel roles before he established his own practice. In 2006 he served as of counsel at the Law Office of Michael L Wilsman. He moved into an of counsel position at Duvall Law Office, LLC in 2012. In 2015 he opened the Law Office of Steven M Berger, LLC, where he has been listed as the lawyer since that year.
Over time Berger concentrated on matters that touch family wealth and end-of-life planning. He is certified as a Specialist in Estate Planning by the Estate Law Specialist Board, Inc. That credential signals a sustained engagement in estate planning work and related matters. His practice includes drafting wills and trusts, preparing powers of attorney and other planning documents, and assisting families as they handle probate and estate administration.
Professional connections have remained part of his career. He has belonged to the Maryland State Bar Association since 1990. He joined WealthCounsel in 2009 and the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils in 2014. Between 2010 and 2018 he taught orientation for the Wills for Heroes program, helping lawyers prepare to deliver basic estate documents to first responders and their families.
Clients and colleagues describe Berger as methodical and pragmatic. He tends to prioritize clear documents that reflect a client’s priorities and reduce uncertainty for survivors. He approaches planning in straightforward terms and takes time to explain options so people understand the consequences of different choices.
His career path—military academy education followed by a law degree and years of practice—has shaped a practice grounded in process and detail. He remains in active practice in Maryland, concentrating on estate planning, trusts and probate matters.
