Matthew Madsen

Practice Areas

Matthew Madsen has more than 25 years of experience advising high-net-worth individuals and families on a wide range of matters, including complex estate and wealth transfer planning strategies, as well as the structuring of charitable organizations and sophisticated charitable gifts.

Matt advises private clients on their charitable giving strategies, ranging from charitable pledge agreements, donor-advised funds, and supporting organizations to private foundations. He similarly advises tax-exempt organizations on charitable matters, most often relating to their formation and operation and related tax and compliance issues, including strategies for receiving and using a variety of assets for charitable purposes.

Matt is a Fellow with the esteemed American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC). He is also a frequent speaker and prolific author, publishing several articles on estate planning and charitable giving.

Given his knowledge and experience, it’s no surprise that he’s been named among The Best Lawyers in America® since 2008 and has been ranked in the Chambers High Net Worth Guide since 2020. Matt has also led several charitable organizations in the St. Louis community. He is a member of the St. Louis Estate Planning Council and presently serves as the outside General Counsel for the St. Louis Community Foundation. Matt previously served on the Planned Giving Advisory Council of the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter, the Planned Giving Council of Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, the Planned Giving Council of the Children’s Charity of St. Louis, and the Development Committee of City Academy, and has volunteered at several other organizations.

Professional Memberships

Fellow, American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC)

American Bar Association, Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section

St. Louis Estate Planning Council of Saint Louis, Member

The Children’s Charity of St. Louis, Planned Giving Council (2008 to 2011)

Saint Louis Community Foundation, Outside General Counsel

American Red Cross, St. Louis Area Chapter, Planned Giving Advisory Council (2004 to 2008)

Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, Gift Planning Council St. Louis Social Venture Partners (2003)

City Academy, Development Committee (2000-2002)