Meet Our Team
Jennifer C. Surmacz
PRESIDENT & CHIEF COUNSEL
During her years of general practice and litigation, Jennifer found herself drawn to Estate Planning because it gave her the opportunity to help families avoid Probate Court and build generational wealth. Jennifer founded Posterity Legal Services, LLC in 2020 to focus solely on Estate Planning services. She is passionate about helping clients understand the legal intricacies of Estate Planning and how to avoid Probate Court - translating complex legal concepts into easy-to-understand options for each client based on their unique circumstances. Jennifer was born into a military family and lived in several states before settling in Oklahoma. She graduated from Mustang High School as Valedictorian and a National Merit Scholar. Jennifer earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Minor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Oklahoma. She earned her Juris Doctor at Oklahoma City University School of Law. She currently resides in Saint Louis, Missouri. Jennifer is licensed to practice law in Missouri, Oklahoma, Nevada, and the Federal District of Maryland. She has experience in Estate Planning, Probate, Contracts, Family law, Federal Civil litigation, and ERISA Federal Class Action litigation. Jennifer also served as a Special Public Defender for Juveniles in Canadian County, Oklahoma and St. Louis and St. Charles counties in Missouri. Jennifer served terms as 10th Circuit Lieutenant Governor of the American Bar Association LSD, and Vice President of Women’s Law Student Association. She is a member of the American Bar Association, the Phi Alpha Delta legal fraternity, the Oklahoma Association of Justice, the National Association of Professional Women, Lawyers Fighting Hunger, and Gene Slay’s Girls and Boys Club. Jennifer is also a black belt and national champion in Tae Kwon Do.
Chelsea Steppig
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Chelsea Steppig brings a profound commitment to community service and a unique blend of professional expertise to her role as Chief Operating Officer at Posterity Legal Services, LLC. Her journey began in the healthcare sector, earning her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from St. Louis College of Pharmacy. A personal injury redirected her path from pharmacy to the legal industry, imparting a deep understanding of resilience and the importance of preparation for life's unexpected turns. Driven by a desire to merge her passion for serving her community with her operational expertise, Chelsea has dedicated herself to supporting the mission of Posterity Legal Services, LLC. She ensures seamless client interactions and operational efficiency within the firm, drawing parallels between her former role in healthcare and the proactive nature of estate planning; both centered on helping people, preparing for the future, and making a lasting difference. Outside the office, Chelsea finds joy in photography, scuba diving, exploring the path less traveled, and the unique hobby of pressed penny collecting. She also values the restorative power of a good nap. Chelsea’s professional journey is underscored by her unwavering commitment to instilling hope and empowerment in those she serves. Her tenacity paired with her compassionate heart make her an integral part of the firm's leadership.
Chelsie Keller
ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Chelsie Keller earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business, concentration in Sports Management from Hope International University in 2016. Chelsie earned her Juris Doctor from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 2020. While in law school, she was a member of Moot Court Honor Society, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and was President of Sports Law Society. Chelsie is licensed in California and New York, and is experienced in civil and criminal litigation, contracts, Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning, and Property law. On her days off, Chelsie loves traveling, being active, spending time with family and spoiling her Golden Retriever, Cooper.
Michael Carter
ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Michael Carter earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in 2018. Prior to attending law school, he worked as a nuclear fuel engineer at the Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Station in Burlington, Kansas. Although he ultimately chose to pursue a career in law, Michael remains a passionate advocate for nuclear energy and enjoys staying informed on advances and innovations within the industry. Michael earned his Juris Doctor from the Emory University School of Law in 2024. During law school, he was a member of the TI:GER (Technological Innovation: Generating Economic Results) program and completed multiple legal internships throughout both the academic year and the summer terms. After graduating, Michael began his career in patent prosecution. Through these experiences, Michael gained exposure to intellectual property law, corporate law, and criminal law before deciding to focus his practice Estate Planning. Michael is an eagle scout and achieved the rare distinction of earning every available merit badge, an accomplishment attained by approximately 650 individuals nationwide. Through the pursuit of that goal, he developed a broad base of knowledge and a lifelong passion for learning that continues to inform his professional and personal endeavors. Outside of his practice, Michael enjoys spending time with friends and family, exploring new restaurants, and camping.
Shaneice Bowman
PARALEGAL
Shaneice Bowman is a legal and client-services professional with a heart for helping people navigate important life decisions with clarity and care. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Harris-Stowe State University, graduating magna cum laude with a 3.7 GPA, and also completed the NPower Tech Fundamentals course. Since 2020, Shaneice has owned and operated a small business, where she built lasting relationships through exceptional customer service, organization, and trust. Her background in legal intake and court support allows her to work closely with clients, ensuring they feel heard, informed, and comfortable, especially when planning for the future. Outside of her professional life, Shaneice enjoys traveling, attending live concerts, and sharing her love of music as a vocalist performing with various bands and local artists around the city.
Yvonne Avila
PARALEGAL
Yvonne Avila brings decades of experience supporting clients through detailed, documentation-heavy legal matters. She works closely with attorneys to keep case files organized, deadlines on track, and communication clear at every stage of the process. Known for her calm, supportive approach, Yvonne helps clients understand what’s needed and when making complex requirements feel manageable. She is often the main point of contact for gathering records, answering questions, and ensuring information is handled accurately and confidentially. Yvonne values clear communication, professionalism, and treating every client with care and respect. She takes pride in helping matters move forward smoothly and efficiently.
Dakota Vassalli
PARALEGAL
Dakota Vassalli earned his Paralegal Certificate from St. Louis Community College in 2024 while working as an Assistant Supervisor in the Civil Department at the St. Louis County Courthouse. He spent four years at the courthouse gaining practical experience in civil procedure, case management, and assisting members of the public and attorneys with their case-related needs. Dakota comes from a large, close-knit family, his mother being the eighth of twelve siblings, which helped shape his appreciation for strong relationships and his desire to help others. He brings a thoughtful, compassionate approach to his work and values supporting both clients and colleagues. Currently, Dakota serves as a paralegal at Posterity Legal Services, LLC, where he shares the firm’s commitment to family-focused advocacy and client support. He draws on his prior professional experience and a strong interest in technology to help improve workflow efficiency and support the legal team to the best of his ability. Outside of work, Dakota enjoys video games, movies, and travel. He also has a background in gymnastics, mixed martial arts, and ballroom dancing, reflecting his curiosity, discipline, and enthusiasm for learning new skills.
