Shira J. Stefanik, Criminal Defense Attorney in Seattle, Washington

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, you need a fierce advocate.

When the government is using their power to threaten to take your freedom, your property, and your voice, don't panic. Call me. Allow me apply my fierce work ethic and years of experience to protect you from the government's reach. Let's push back.

Shira Stefanik is not originally from Washington State, but she has lived in this region for much of her adult life. It is beneficial to bring a multitude of perspectives when approaching a conflict. Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, Shira transplanted herself on the west coast to attend The Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA. Evergreen's culture of social activism led Shira to the World Trade Organization (WTO) protests in 1999, where she and hundreds of other peaceful protesters were booked in the King County Jail for several days. That was not the last time Shira saw her peers get profiled, arrested and charged with criminal conduct. These experiences ultimately led Shira to pursue a legal education in San Diego, California, where she earned her law degree in 2008. Game on. Shira returned to the Pacific Northwest and was admitted to the Washington State Bar in 2009.

Despite earning her law license in the midst of a crippling recession that prevented many young lawyers from launching their careers, Shira began working with other defense attorneys in the Seattle and greater Puget Sound area on a contract basis, assisting with court appearances, legal briefing, case negotiations, and trials. Always one to champion the underdog, she opened the Law Office of Shira J. Stefanik in 2010, where she has steadfastly committed to defending those accused of criminal misconduct.

Shira has attended the National Criminal Defense College, an intensive two-week program focused solely on criminal defense trial work. She is an active member of the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the national DUI Defense Lawyers Association, where she regularly participates in continuing legal education seminars to ensure that she is current on changes in the law and emerging defense strategies.

In her free time, Shira enjoys spending time on the water during sunny days and seeing live music, especially Phish and Grateful Dead projects.

My Approach

My work begins with a personal consultation, followed by extensive investigation. If you have not yet been charged with a crime, there are steps I can take to attempt to prevent that criminal charge, or to mitigate the effect of the charge once you are summoned into court.

When criminal charges are filed, I understand that the consequences of a criminal conviction can be life-changing. I examine every piece of evidence the government plans to use against you to determine whether it is accurate, authentic or even admissible in court.

I utilize my extensive network of the most qualified consultants, colleagues, investigators, providers and expert witnesses to address legal, factual, and scientific issues to prepare the most effective defense. With an understanding of your individualized needs and concerns, I extensively explore every tactical scenario to accomplish the best possible result in your case. I keep in regular contact with you to ensure that you are updated, involved and informed. I give you your voice back.

Whether we reach an agreed resolution or go to trial, I stand by you and I fight for you the entire way.

You will not have to go through this alone.