Attorney Profile

Education:

Stefanie graduated number one in her class from San Joaquin College of Law in 2000, earning her Juris Doctor with High Honors.  Prior to that, she attended CSU, Fresno, graduating Magna Cum Laude with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in Philosophy. 

During Law School, Stefanie earned several awards, including outstanding first year student, the Legal Research and Writing Award, and Best Oral Advocate at the 1998 Hopper Moot Court Competition.  She participated with the 1999 Traynor Moot Court traveling team and graduated as Valedictorian of her class.

Areas of Practice/Experience:

During Law School, Stefanie clerked for the Law Office of Sarah Schmidt and Schmidt Hubbell LLP, which specialized in insurance defense and third party litigation.  She also served as an extern at the Fifth District Court of Appeal.

After law school, Stefanie joined Schmidt Hubbell LLP as an insurance defense and animal law attorney.  In 2006, Stefanie switched her practice areas to estate planning, trust administration, and probate.  She opened her law office in 2009.

Stefanie is an Adjunct Professor at San Joaquin College of Law, currently teaching Advanced Research and Writing to the graduating students.

Professional Organizations:

Stefanie is a member of the State Bar of California and the Fresno County Bar Association, as well as Fresno Women Lawyers and San Joaquin College of Law Alumni Association.  She has appeared on several local radio programs to discuss estate planning and animal law and has been a guest speaker on both topics.

Community Involvement:

Stefanie was raised in the San Joaquin Valley and has deep roots in the community.  She regularly volunteers at her local school, coaches recreational soccer, serves as Treasurer of Fugman Soccer Club, is co-founder of the Central Valley Coalition for Animals, and fosters dogs for Animal Compassion Team (ACT).  She is an active member of the Rotary Club of North Fresno, where she currently  serves as Junior Chair of Community Service.

Commitment to Clients:

Stefanie is committed to providing top quality service to her clients.  She will make herself available after hours and on weekends to meet an individual client's needs.  In assisting clients with their estate plans, Stefanie provides them with peace of mind and helps them to take care of their loved ones.  In advocating for clients, Stefanie allows them to regain their financial and personal power.