James M. McKain

James McKain joined Shepherd Elder Law Group in the summer of 2024 as a Senior Attorney. James comes to SEL with over 10 years of experience in the fields of elder law, trusts and estates, and special needs planning.

James started his adult life serving in the United States Army. After his time in the service, James attended the University of Kansas for both his bachelor’s degree and for law school. After graduating law school in 2009, James entered the practice of law in Washington state, but after a few years felt the irresistible call to return to Kansas to raise his family.

James’ practice of the law has focused on estate planning, including the use of Trusts, Wills and Powers of Attorney to protect his clients’ interests and minimize their tax burdens to the greatest extent possible. He has held positions including Lead Counsel at LifePlan Legal, Estates & Trust Section Lead Counsel at WM Law, Estates and Trust Section Attorney with Creative Planning, and, most recently, Partner in the Business Practice Group at Lewis, Brisbois, Bisgaard, & Smith.

James currently lives in Johnson County Kansas with his wife Michelle, and his daughter Molly, and is far more blessed than he deserves.