Stephen J.M. Stafford, Criminal Defense Attorney in the United States

Stephen concentrates on criminal defense. Each area below outlines the kind of case Stephen handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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Stephen's primary office is at 100 Richmond Street West, Toronto, ON, M5H 3K6. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Stephen usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Stephen discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Stephen for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Stephen walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Stephen offer a free consultation?

  Stephen charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Stephen's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Stephen's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in this state typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Stephen gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Stephen take my case if I'm outside the area?

  Stephen evaluates matters case by case. If the venue is outside Stephen's regular jurisdictions, the intake call will confirm whether direct representation or a referral makes more sense.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Stephen?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Stephen will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Stephen accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Stephen's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.