Professional Experience:
Michael Gunn brings over five decades of distinguished legal experience to AEGIS Law, with a career that exemplifies leadership at both the state and national levels. A 1968 graduate of St. Louis University School of Law, Michael has built a reputation as one of Missouri’s most respected practitioners in estate planning, probate, and trust administration, earning the highest possible Martindale-Hubbell AV® Preeminent™ rating.
As a practicing attorney, Michael focuses on complex estate planning, probate and trust administration, and litigation, combining deep technical expertise with a practical understanding of client needs. His work in general civil litigation and business planning adds breadth to his practice, making him a versatile advisor for clients facing multifaceted legal challenges. His experience as Circuit Judge in the Municipal Division of Manchester (1997-2019) provides unique insight into judicial processes that benefits his clients.
Michael’s influence extends far beyond his private practice. He has served as President of The Missouri Bar, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the legal profession at the state level. His 18-year tenure as a delegate in the American Bar Association’s House of Delegates, culminating in his role as Missouri’s State Delegate, showcases his national leadership in shaping legal policy and practice standards.
Community Involvement:
Michael’s service to the legal profession is exemplified by his role as President of The Missouri Bar (1999-2000), where he helped shape the direction of Missouri’s legal profession at a crucial time. Through eleven years on the Missouri Bar Board of Governors (1990-2001), he championed initiatives to improve the administration of justice and public understanding of the legal system. His bar leadership extends across multiple organizations – he served as President of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (1987-1988) and President of the Lawyers Association of St. Louis (1981-1982).
His dedication to community service includes twelve years as Chair of the Board of Directors for Peter & Paul Community Services, where he guided crucial support services for homeless individuals. His creation of The Missouri Bar Leadership Academy has helped increase diversity in bar leadership, earning him the first Unity Award from the Missouri Asian American Bar Association and the Mound City Bar Association.
As Chairman of The Bar Plan Surety and Fidelity Company (2001-2016) and President of the National Conference of Bar Foundations, Michael has worked to strengthen both professional support systems and access to justice. His upcoming induction into the St. Louis University School of Law “Order of the Fleur de Lis Hall of Fame” in 2025 serves as testament to his lasting impact on the legal profession and his community. What truly distinguishes Michael is his rare combination of high-level leadership experience, particularly his pivotal role in shaping The Missouri Bar, his technical legal expertise, and his unwavering commitment to community service. This multifaceted experience makes him an invaluable resource for clients seeking sophisticated legal solutions while maintaining a focus on practical, real-world outcomes.
His upcoming induction into the St. Louis University School of Law “Order of the Fleur de Lis Hall of Fame” in 2025 serves as testament to his lasting impact on the legal profession and his community. Michael’s legacy of service, combined with his technical expertise, continues to benefit clients and colleagues alike at AEGIS Law.
