Steven C. Cross is the founder of Cross + Compass, PLC and an Associate Broker with Petoskey Real Estate Group, bringing together his legal, trust administration, and real estate experience to serve families and property owners throughout Northern Michigan.

Steven earned his undergraduate degree in Economics from Northern Michigan University and his Juris Doctor from The Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He began his legal career in private practice, spending more than five years working alongside his father and mentor, Dennis Cross. That experience gave him a strong foundation in the practice of law and, just as importantly, taught him the value of building lasting relationships with clients and their families.

Steven then spent more than ten years in the Trust and Wealth Departments of national banks, where he developed extensive experience in trust administration, estate settlement, and helping families navigate the practical realities that arise after a loved one’s death. Today, through Cross + Compass, PLC, he focuses his legal practice on estate planning, probate and trust administration, and real estate law, drawing on both his legal and trust backgrounds to create plans and documents that not only meet legal requirements but work when families need them most.

Steven has also expanded his work in Northern Michigan real estate as an Associate Broker with Petoskey Real Estate Group. This role allows him to combine his knowledge of real estate law, estate and trust matters, and property transactions with the hands-on representation of buyers and sellers. Whether helping a family plan for the future, navigating the transfer or sale of inherited property, or representing a client in the purchase or sale of a home, Steven brings a unique perspective to the process.

His approach is straightforward and people-centered: clear advice, practical solutions, strong advocacy, and steady guidance through life’s most important decisions.

Away from the office, Steven enjoys life in Northern Michigan with his wife, Amy, and their four children. Together, they stay busy with school, sports, music, and everything the lakeshore has to offer - daily reminders of why strong families, strong communities, and a place to call home matter so much.