Stephen P. Shepard, Esq.

About Stephen P. Shepard

Stephen P. Shepard serves as the principal attorney at Shepard Law, providing dedicated criminal defense representation to individuals throughout Baltimore County and nearby surrounding areas in Maryland.  Since establishing his practice in 2012, Mr. Shepard has built a reputation for delivering exceptional legal counsel with unwavering commitment to protecting his clients’ rights and futures.

Educational Background and Early Legal Experience

Mr. Shepard completed his undergraduate studies at Cabrini University, graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Philosophy.  His academic excellence earned him leadership roles as Chapter President of both the Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Honor Society and the Phi Sigma Tau International Honor Society for Philosophy.

During his formative legal education, Mr. Shepard participated in the Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program, gaining valuable insight into the realities of incarceration that now informs his practice.  His internship with the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office Major Crimes Unit provided essential prosecutorial perspective that he leverages in developing comprehensive defense strategies.  His internship with the Maryland Office of the Public Defender showed him another perspective on the justice system and taught him how to think quick on his feet in he courtroom and to be resourceful.

Mr. Shepard earned his Juris Doctor with honors from the Appalachian School of Law, focusing his studies on criminal law, criminal procedure, advanced criminal procedure, criminal practice, and client interviewing and counseling.  His student article examining the rehabilitation and reintegration of former offenders was published in the Appalachian Journal of Law, where he subsequently served on the Executive Board as the Articles Editor.

Professional Practice and Areas of Focus

At Shepard Law, Mr. Shepard represents individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout Baltimore County District Courts and Baltimore County Circuit Court.  His practice encompasses all aspects of criminal defense, including representation in cases involving assault, drug possession and distribution, driving under the influence, theft, sex offenses, and other serious criminal matters.  Mr. Shepard maintains active membership in the Baltimore County Bar Association, the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association, the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys, the National Trial Lawyers, and the Maryland State Bar Association.

Recognition and Awards

Mr. Shepard’s dedication to criminal defense has earned consistent recognition from peers and clients alike.  He maintains a “Superb” 10.0 rating on Avvo for criminal defense representation and DUI representation.  He has been recognized as a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers each year since 2020.  The National Trial Lawyers recognized Mr. Shepard as a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and “Top 40 Under 40.”  Mr. Shepard received the Martindale-Hubble “Client Champion” award for 2024.  Avvo also recognized his commitment to outstanding client service with its “Client’s Choice” award.

A Personal Approach to Criminal Defense

Mr. Shepard understands that facing criminal charges creates profound uncertainty and stress for his clients and their families.  His approach combines aggressive advocacy with genuine compassion, ensuring each client receives both exemplary legal representation and the support needed during challenging times.  As noted by a recent client:  “What sets Stephen apart is not just his legal expertise, but his unwavering dedication to his clients.  He maintained clear and consistent communication throughout the entire process, ensuring I always felt informed and supported.”

Community Engagement and Professional Development

Beyond his courtroom advocacy, Mr. Shepard demonstrates his commitment to justice through providing at minimum 50 hours of pro bono legal services annually to individuals with limited financial means.  He has served as a judge for Empire Mock Trial competitions and actively participates in public discourse regarding criminal justice reform, including discussions about expungement and the barriers facing individuals with criminal records.

Stephen P. Shepard attorney lawyer in Towson, Maryland (Baltimore County)

The diplomas and awards on my walls do not define who I am as a person. But the people that I have helped over the course of my career - they will be my true legacy.

You will not find a more understanding, professional, and attentive lawyer. At no time did I ever feel left in the dark about what was going on or that Mr. Shepard did not have my best interest at heart. He really knocked it out of the park. I could not have hoped for a better outcome with my case for myself and my family.
Former Client
Google Review
Steve was the light at the end of the tunnel for me. He was very professional and friendly throughout my entire experience, while also being very knowledgeable about everything that my case involved. Thanks to him I left a free man. I highly recommend him!
Former Client
Lawyers.com Review
Super Lawyer Rising Star Stephen P. Shepard in Towson, MD

Super Lawyers "Rising Star" 2024 Honoree

Super Lawyers is a rating service of lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations. To read more about the Super Lawyers selection process, click here.

Avvo Rated 10.0 for Criminal Defense

Avvo is one of the leading attorney directory listing services on the web. Avvo has ratings, reviews, and disciplinary records for lawyers in nearly every state. Avvo rates attorneys using a model that considers information that the attorney has included on their profile in addition to the information that Avvo collects from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. To read more about the Avvo rating system, click here.

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