Skip to main content

Steven Ernest Kellis

  Save
Avvo Rating10
Steven Ernest Kellis
Steven Ernest Kellis
AboutContactReviewsCost

About Steven

Former DUI Prosecutor, 24 years experience, specializing exclusively in DUI Defense. 877-420-8772

Practice areas

DUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 100%

    A graduate of Villanova Law School and Bucknell University, I have over 19 years of jury trial experience. I served for five years as a Senior Assistant District Attorney and DUI Prosecutor. More importantly, I have handled more than 100 DUI trials and over 1,000 evidentiary hearings. Our practice is strictly limited to PA DUI Defense throughout the state of Pennsylvania. Please contact Mr. Kellis immediately for a Free Initial Consultation and review our website at www.kellislaw.com

    30 years, 3,000 cases

Languages spoken

Greek, English

Contact

Two Penn Center Plaza, Suite 900
address map

Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis

Two Penn Center Plaza, Suite 900
1500 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA, 19102

Fax (215) 940-2901
Website
http://www.kellislaw.com

Two Penn Ctr Plz
1500 Jfk Blvd # 900
Philadelphia, PA, 19102

1500 Jfk Boulevard
Suite 900
Philadelphia, PA, 19102

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
DCInactive 200010/14/2017
PAActive199201/02/2021
GAInactive Member in Good Standing 199212/21/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers6
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers Association2014
Top 100American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2014
Top 100 DUI Lawyers in PennsylvaniaNation Federation of DUI Lawyers Association2014
DeligateNational College for DUI Defense2008
National Certification in Field Sobriety TestingWalden & Platt2005
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
PartnerLaw Offices of Steven E. Kellis, PC2001 - Present
Senior Assistant District AttorneyDistrict Attorney's Office1997 - 2001
Legal InternPhiladelphia District Attorney's Office1987 - 1987
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Pennsylvania Bar AssociationMember2004 - Present
Philadelphia Bar AssociationMember2004 - Present
Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2004 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseState Delegate2002 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2002 - Present
Association of Trial Lawyers of AmericaMember1992 - Present
State Bar of GeorgiaMember1992 - Present
National District Attorneys AssociationMember1996 - 2001
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Villanova Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor1991
Bucknell UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1987
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Advanced Trial TacticsTrial Tactics Advanced2012
Live CLE/Trial TacticsTrial Tactics2011

Reviews

(51)
5 Star
98%
4 Star
2%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Steven Kellis

1st, 2nd, 3rd DUI/DWI? Yes, you DO need an experienced DUI Attorney!

Posted by

In February of 2009, I was arrested in Philadelphia and charged with DUI. Unfortunately, it was not the first time this had happened. Facing significant jail time and the subsequent loss of my job, career, home and personal freedom, I reached out to Mr. Kellis after reading about his experience online. Steven agreed to take my case and thus began our journey. In the months that followed, an additional charge of felony fleeing was added by the DA's office further complicating my case and seriously jeopardizing any kind of favorable outcome. Obviously, I was in an arduous position with little hope. In the end, it came down to Steven's acute knowledge of of the law, his experience on both sides of the bench, his excellent negotiation skills and his ability to think quickly and act precisely when presented with opportunities in court. Thanks to Steven's exemplary representation, the felony fleeing charge was ultimately dropped and a plea was negotiated resulting in minimal disruption to my personal life. I chose to work with the right attorney whose experience proved to be far more valuable than I could have imagined. Without Steven's help, I'd most likely be sitting in jail right now - a sobering fact which I am reminded of every day. If you are in any kind of trouble with DUI/DWI, you need an experienced attorney to represent you in court. Give Mr. Kellis a call - you'll be glad you did.

Grateful

Posted by

Without reservations do I recommend Steven Kellis. I was facing the real possibility of 60- 90 days jail time and an extended period without a drivers license due to two DUI charges within three weeks. Clearly experienced in trying DUI cases in Philadelphia Steve demonstrated tenacity and skill as well as a command of the law. He was successful in getting one of the cases dropped and the other reduced to the mandatory minimum of three months probation-no jail or loss of license. I am grateful for finding Steve and the good fortune that has been afforded me which I will not squander.

Steven is a miracle worker

Posted by

Steven is one of the best lawyers I have ever talked to. My husband was charged with a driving on suspended license dui related. Steven kept fighting when all odds were against my husband. My husband had a prior dui and a suspended license. The outcome was all charges being dropped. Steven proved the state trooper wrong and taught the trooper a lesson on the PA vehicle crime codes. If you think you’re facing jail time, don’t worry because Steven will get you a great deal. My husband avoided jail time because of Steven Kellis
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Pennsylvania DUI Lawyer Steven E. Kellis Review

Posted by

I was referred to Mr. Kellis by another Pennsylvania attorney. The referring attorney handles DUI cases but still put me in touch with Mr. Kellis due to his expertise and focus on PA drunk driving cases. I could not be more pleased with the final outcome. I had never had any run in with the law before and Steven made me feel comfortable the entire time. His experience as a former prosecutor helped my case immensely as he knew what was going to happen before it happened. I absolutely recommend Mr. Kellis.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best attorney in the area

Posted by

I will forever be in debt to Mr. Kellis. In 2017 I was arrested for a DUI(Tier 3). Due to my past, the chances of me getting into the ARD program were slim. I searched for days reading reviews on all of the attorneys in the Philadelphia area. I called Mr. Kellis because he had some of the best reviews. Right from the start he was able to put my mind at ease and assured me that he would do everything possible to help me out. If convicted, I could have lost my career, license, and faced 72Hr minimum jailtime. Getting into ARD was my only hope. At first I was denied entry into the program. I believe I was actually denied a couple times but Mr. Kellis kept fighting for me. A couple days before my court date I received a call. It was Mr. Kellis calling to inform me that I had finally been accepted into the ARD program. What a relief... I’ll never forget that feeling for as long as I live. It was like the weight of the world had been lifted from my shoulders. The day of my ARD hearing, I met with Mr. Kellis at the courthouse. I knew I was with good company. It seemed like he knew EVERYBODY at the courthouse. We couldn’t make It down a single hallway without somebody stopping to talk with him. It was a great feeling knowing that I had this man representing me for my legal troubles. Last month I finished my ARD probation and can put this all behind me. All because of Mr. Kellis I was able to keep my career, license, and stay out of jail. I haven’t had a single drink of alcohol since the night of the DUI and couldn’t be more grateful for everything this program and Mr. Kellis have done for me. If you’re looking for the best DUI attorney in the West Chester/ Philadelphia area, Steven Kellis is who I would recommend. I truly believe he went above and beyond what most other attorneys would have done for me. Thanks again Mr Kellis.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

3 cases

Posted by

I havent been in trouble with the law since i was 19 years old. In 2015, my mother died suddenly right in front of me and at the time i had 7 years of sobriety. I through it all away and within 2 years. I caught 2 d.u.i cases and 1 possession case in Philly. My girlfriend hired Steve Kellis for the 2 d.u.i cases and he EVEN took the possession case for free. After almost 2 years of missing court and warrants for my arrest, Steve stuck with me and helped me. Even when i wasn't helping myself. I am now sober again and done with all 3 cases. 1 d.u.id.u.i was throw out. The possession i had to just prove that i am staying clean and the other d.u.i case went to trial. Which i was found "Not Guilty". You had to see him question the cop! It was great. The cop got caught in 3 lies. Steve doea take on a lot of clients but if you show you care about yourself , he will go above and beyond for you. He also knows all the judges, which helped a lot. I still am shocked i was found guilty with tge d.u.i case that went to trial! I am just greatful for his help. He is even helping my girlfriend with an appeal for her probation hearing where she got 5-12 months just for her 1st probation violation. I am so shocked, but with Steves help, i have faith! Im sure my girl agrees in me saying "he was worth every penny!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

THE BEST THERE IS

Posted by

Steven Kellis is the number person that should be in your CONTACT LIST!!! My first DUI in 2013 was at the most improbable time of my life. I had just finished school, started a new career & one day in June of 2013 it all changed. I called 10 different lawyers and STEVEN was the only one who assured me that I will not do jail time & will not have my license suspended. Followed through with him & the results were outstanding. Case dismissed!!! My second DUI in 2015, I knew who to call right away! I was facing 1 year license suspension & significant jail time. Again Mr. Kellis delivered & got the case dismissed. Have never been so satisfied in life with how meticulous & tenacious Steven is. My third DUI in 2018, my heart literally got shattered into a thousand pieces! I said there is no way am getting off this time. I was facing tier 3 and bac .15 with accident and I again I called STEVEN KELLIS! I said to I called you because I know you are the best & you are the only who can either reduce it or a small chance of having it dissmissed! Steven faught tooth and nails and was able to reduce to a guilty plea with no jail time or license suspension! However there is a small but rare possibility of getting dismissed! I said Steven I trust you I have faith in your knowledge and your instinct so I said let's do it, let's go to trail. In that moment, what Steve said portrayed that words are indeed VERY POWERFUL. With arguably the toughest Judge in the stand the DA was left speechless & did not have a solution! CASE DISMISSED!!! Steven I thank you very much for everything you have done for me, God Bless you and your Family 5 stars is not enough for a man of this Stature. I am blessed to have had you as my lawyer & I truly appreciate all the hard work & all the places you came to visit me to discuss our case! If anyone wants a 2nd chance or even 3rd chance in LIFE Steven E Kellis is THE BEST THERE IS!!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Fantastic legal representation

Posted by

Was pullover over while driving with a suspended license due to a DUI. Mr. Kellis was able to get the charges reduced and I only had to pay a small fine. He was able to keep me on track with my ARD and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the outcome. Would definitely recommend to anyone dealing with a DUI or driving without a license charge. A+
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great lawyer

Posted by

Steven is a great lawyer. Steven always responded to my calls and made me feel as if I was his only priority. Steven assured me the whole time that there is no need to worry and everything will be taken care of. I was facing a DUI (1st time) but Steven was able to drop it and bring my case to the very minimum. I would recommend Steven to anybody that needs a DUI lawyer. Fair price and definitely get your moneys worth. Steven made it very less painful then I thought it would be and had a great outcome for me. Go Steve!! While searching Stevens reviews I saw maybe three that had to be spam or false. Please don’t go by those because he proved them wrong by making my case so simple and great outcome. Hire Steven Kellis you won’t be disappointed!!! Thanks Steve and keep up the great work!!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

The Best!!

Posted by

Steven Kellis saved my life! Facing a DUI ( I have had prior convictions) that could have had significant jail time, long term license suspension and life destroying consequences, I retained Attorney Kellis. His knowledge of DUI law, good relationships with the ADA and DA, negotiated a plea deal for me that I did not think was even possible. His reassurance and guidance through the whole process was priceless and done in an understanding and nonjudgmental way. I can not recommend Attorney Kellis enough. Thanks Steve!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(16)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Gregory Willis, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 21, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Steve is an excellent trial lawyer with tons of experience in DUI. His trial skills and motion skills are effective at getting great results for his clients.

Kevin Fisher, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 23, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Steven is an amazing attorney. His knowledge of DUI law is endless. He knows his way around the courtroom and will fight to the end to get the best possible outcome for his client. I highly recommend Steven. He is truly a good person and a great attorney.

Renee Mielnicki, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 18, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Michael Senoyuit, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 17, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.I have known Steven for many years. He is by far one of the best DUI lawyers in the State. He works very hard and always gets the best results for his clients.

Aaron Harper, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 24, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

He is outstanding DWI lawyer that knows how to aggressively defend DWI cases. He is an asset to the legal community.

Timothy Vanderweert, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 5, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Steven is an excellent DUI attorney. I recommend him highly.

David McKenzie, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 14, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Steven is well known and highly regarded amongst his peers and the Courts. He is top of his field and works hard for his clients. Even though a competitor, I highly recommend Mike.

Stanley Cheiken, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 23, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Steve is the "go to" attorney for DUI cases.

Gabriel Levin, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 30, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Marko Burgar, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 21, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have had the pleasure of working both alongside and opposite Steve over the many years I have known him. He is a zealous advocate and extremely knowledgeable in DUI law.

Paul Lang, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 1, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Not only is Steve one of my favorite attorneys to talk with in court, but he is a fountain of knowledge and expertise. He has provided advice and consultation to me over the years and has helped me grow as an attorney. I highly endorse and recommend him!

Phillip Kimbrell, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 6, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Steve since he was first admitted to practice law and have had the pleasure of watching him for many years now. He is knowledgable attorney who is well versed in the law and skilled in its application in the courtroom. I highly endorse Steve and would recommend him to those seeking guidance in a DUI/DWI case without hesitation. P. Darrell Kimbrell

H. Fogle, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 30, 2012
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Steve is a highly ethical, hard working attorney. I have worked with him on a number of cases and I can attest that he is an attorney that will definitely "go to bat" for his clients. I strongly endorse Steve.

Christian Lassen, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 19, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Excellent lawyer.

Michael LaScala, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 3, 2010
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Steve Kellis is a passionate DUI defense lawyer. I have referred him several cases in Bucks County and each client called me personally to thank me for giving them Steve's name. He is a fighter and will defend a case with ingenuity and zeal. Steve is someone that I greatly respect and always appreciate all that he does.

Julie Kert, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 13, 2008
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I readily endorse Steven Kellis as an attorney. I am an attorney who has handled cases with Steven and against Steven. Steven is an attorney who gets results. He is a skilled negotiator and trial attorney. I watched Steve try cases early in my career and to this day I use things in my trials that I learned watching Steve try cases. Steve is never afraid to take a case to trial when he can't negotiate what a client needs, regardless of how grim a case might seem. I have seen Steve win cases at trial that looked hopeless.

Cost

RATES
    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs60 minutes