Scott H. Malin

Partner, Lathrop GPM, St. Louis

Scott Malin launched his legal career on the back of business and accounting. Over time, he has realized that while he enjoys his practice, the relationships he has forged have made his work meaningful.

Right out of law school, Malin focused on trusts and estates, a practice area that has led him to represent high-net-worth clients, family businesses and closely held entities. Over time, he has built long-lasting relationships with clients spanning several generations.

“I remember being 27 and working with a family matriarch who was 92,” he says. “And now I’ve done work for her children, grandchildren, and even some of her great grandchildren.”

Representing elderly clients and their families has taught him lessons about life, business and family dynamics. And he’s learned a good “bedside manner” is essential when dealing with individuals who may be in difficult situations or facing tough business decisions brought on by changes in their businesses or estates, health issues or even death,

“I’ve been able to see how my clients became successful, when they had positive family relationships, and how they navigated relationships that were not positive,” he says.

One of Malin’s hallmarks is his ability to collaborate across offices and practice groups, and that makes him an invaluable resource within his firm.

He was deputy managing partner and served on Lathrop GPM’s executive committee for seven years. He also chaired the firm’s business division and is credited with much of the firm’s success.

Malin is known for his dedication to his profession and his community.

He is an adjunct professor in Washington University School of Law’s Master of Laws in Taxation program, where he teaches Closely Held Business and Succession Planning.

As a past president of the board of Covenant House, a senior living facility, he helped lead a significant renovation project. He is also treasurer of the board of directors for Atlas Public Schools and volunteers with other organizations and nonprofits.

Malin says his career has exceeded his expectations so far, and he’s looking forward to more productive years ahead.

“The clients with whom I’ve developed long-term relationships, and people across our firm have made it all enjoyable,” he says.