Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
5.0 /5.0
1078 Client Reviews
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Stephen Patrick Pfeiffer
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About Stephen
Biography
Stephen P. Pfeiffer is known locally as the “Go-To DUI and Manslaughter Defense Attorney.” Having handled over 3500 DUI related cases Stephen is one of the most experienced DUI attorneys in Virginia. Further, Stephen is certified as an Instructor in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing and Advanced Roadside Impairment Enforcement (Drug Impairment). He has gone through training on Breath Testing and Blood Testing.
Stephen is a partner at Wolcott Rivers Gates, one of the oldest and largest law firms in Virginia Beach. Stephen has been published as a coauthor in the in the nationally recognized “Inside the Minds” series by Aspatore Books on The Legality of Search and Seizure in DUI Cases “A Practitioner’s Everyday Insight Into DWI/DUI Defense in Virginia”.
Stephen has an AV® Preeminent Rating – the highest rating available from Martindale-Hubbell, the leading independent attorney rating entity. An AV® Rating signifies that the lawyer has reached the heights of professional excellence. Stephen was selected as a member of the National College of DUI Defense Attorneys and has been recognized as one of the top 100 DUI attorneys in Virginia by the National Advocacy for DUI Defense. Additionally, Stephen is consistently recognized as one of Virginia's Legal Elite by Virginia Business Magazine as well as by Virginia Super Lawyers. Stephen is a founding member of the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys. Stephen has also recently received recognition from the NACDA as a "Top 10 Under 40" for DUI Defense.
Stephen was the American Bar Association's 2007 National Champion in Legal Negotiations and served as an adjunct professor at Regent University School of Law. Stephen was selected as an Inside Business Top 40 Under 40 in Hampton Roads. Additionally, Stephen has been named a Fellow for the Virginia Law Foundation.
THE LISTING OF SPECIFIC OR CUMULATIVE CASE RESULTS ON THIS WEBPAGE IS PROVIDED FOR YOUR REVIEW. YOU NEED TO BE AWARE THAT ACTUAL CASE RESULTS DEPEND UPON A VARIETY OF FACTORS THAT ARE UNIQUE TO EACH CASE. THE CASE RESULTS PROVIDED DO NOT GUARANTEE OR PREDICT A SIMILAR RESULT IN ANY CASE UNDERTAKEN BY THIS LAW FIRM.
Your "Go-To DUI/DWI Defense Attorney". Working exclusively in DUI/DWI and Vehicular Crime Defense. Call (757) 645-9867 Today!
Your "Go-To DUI/DWI Defense Attorney". Working exclusively with DUI/DWI Defense. Call (757) 645-9867 Today!
Working exclusively in DUI/DWI, Reckless Driving, Racing and Vehicular Crime Defense. Call (757) 645-9867 Today!
Practice Areas
2
Practice Areas
DUI and DWI
99%
19 years | 4,000 cases
Speeding and Traffic Ticket
1%
19 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2026 2025 2024
...
+
12
2017 2014 2013
...
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1
Licenses
Licensed in Virginia for 18 years
State: Virginia
Acquired: 2007
No misconduct found
Location
Law Offices of Stephen Patrick Pfeiffer
(757) 497-6633
Fax
(757) 645-9867
Mobile
4417 Corporation Lane, Virginia Beach, VA, 23462
followthepfeiffer.comGallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Stephen online.
Stephen Patrick Pfeiffer's Reviews
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Practice Areas
Criminal Defense (528)
DUI & DWI (390)
Lawsuits & Disputes (174)
Speeding & Traffic Ticket (121)
Litigation (19)
Appeals (15)
Military Law (11)
Drug Crime (7)
Car Accidents (5)
Violent Crime (5)
Federal Crime (4)
Gun Law (4)
Business (3)
Family (3)
Child Custody (2)
Administrative Law (1)
Computer Fraud (1)
Constitutional (1)
Corporate & Incorporation (1)
Debt Collection (1)
Domestic Violence (1)
Employment & Labor (1)
Expungement (1)
Immigration (1)
Personal Injury (1)
Probate (1)
White Collar Crime (1)
What Clients Mention
Case Results (788)
Advocacy (573)
Recommendation (438)
Professionalism (288)
Practice Area Knowledge (265)
Communication Style (204)
Responsiveness (163)
Character & Conduct (161)
General Knowledge (159)
Trustworthiness (157)
Compassion (128)
Cost of Services (79)
Staff & Support (48)
Punctuality (18)
Free Consultations (6)
Payment Plans (2)
Showing 56 - 60 of 128 reviews | Compassion
Posted by Benjamin | November 16, 2022 | Hired Attorney
Mr. Pheiffer
Mr.Pheiffer literally saved my life. Besides being the best lawyer I could have possibly gotten and the professionalism he holds behind him, he truly took a moment to stop and care for an individual. He was able to do the impossible and did so not only for his self gain but to truly be an amazing per...
Stephen Pfeiffer
Replied last November 16, 2022Thank you
Posted by Dillon | October 25, 2022 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
DUI 1st Offense
Very knowledgeable and truly cares about your case! He pulled all nighters working on my situation, and got me the best possible outcome. Would highly recommend to anyone being charged with a DUI. He is your go to guy!
Stephen Pfeiffer
Replied last October 25, 2022Thanks
Posted by anonymous | September 13, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Commanding Power Advocate
In Spanish, the word for lawyer and advocate are, the same: Abogado. With Counsel Pfeiffer, I was fortunate to encounter a profound balance of command in the court room with peers; authentic empathy to my case and enough scholarly and research backing to make a tenured professor blush. I was ab...
Stephen Pfeiffer
Replied last September 14, 2022Thank you for this beautiful review.
Posted by Temeka | September 09, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Forever Grateful
I have been waiting for hours pondering on exactly how I can properly express the level of gratitude that I have for Mr. Pfeiffer. From the very moment that I spoke with him over the phone I felt a sense of comfort; of security. I trusted him from the very beginning. As a first offender, I was extrem...
Stephen Pfeiffer
Replied last September 11, 2022It was a pleasure helping you through this case. Thanks for trusting me to do my best.
Posted by Kenny | September 06, 2022 | Hired Attorney
Angels in Disguise
Mr. Pfeiffer and his assistant Claire were absolute godsends. Not only were they very clear, concise and honest throughout a scary and confusing experience, Mr. Pfeiffer along with his experienced counsel made me feel more than simply a client but also a VALUED INDIVIDUAL that did not have to bear m...
Stephen Pfeiffer
Replied last September 07, 2022Thank you
Stephen Patrick Pfeiffer's Lawyer Endorsements
"Stephen is a lawyer who not only endeavors to zealously represent the best interests of his clients, but he follows that desire up with the right research, preparation and attention. Stephen is experienced in the Virginia court system in a plethora of criminal defense situations. Stephen has a great repoire with Judges. I would recommend Stephen to anyone seeking a criminal defense attorney in Virginia."
"Mr. Pfeiffer has a strong understanding of the law and is an excellent litigator. He has a good rapport with Judges, prosecutors, and law-enforcement officers, which helps him to achieve excellent results for his clients."
"Mr. Pfeiffer is one of the best attorneys in the area and I cannot recommend him enough. Over the years, I have had first hand experience of how knowledgeable he is on the law and how he zealously advocates for his clients. He cares about his clients, he works hard for his clients, and he gets his clients results. Mr. Pfeiffer really is your go-to DUI attorney."
"I highly recommend and endorse Steve. Steve is the go-to attorney in the area for your DUI & DWI matter. Steve genuinely cares about his clients and gets results."
"When I asked a lawyers listserv question about Steve's local court's practice about a simple yet vital matter, Steve soon responded with a clear and on-the-money response. When I followed up seeking his insights into defending a challenging case there, he once again had the on-the-money answer. This is not only an example of criminal defense lawyers at their best in helping colleagues, but also of Steve's readiness to help, which clearly translates into how he helps his clients. I recommend Steve's services."
"Steve is one of the most professional, kindest attorneys in the area. He truly cares about each and every one of his clients. Anyone would be well-served in hiring him."
"Stephen Pfeiffer is an excellent litigator and person. He achieves the best possible results for his clients through his preparation and zealous advocacy. He is also the gold standard for professionalism. He treats everyone with the utmost respect and it is obvious that he is respected by all to include judges, prosecutors, law enforcement, clerks and fellow colleagues in the community. When I was in need of last minute representation for my client (due to illness), Mr. Pfeiffer jumped right in to help me out. He made a court appearance for me and obtained an excellent disposition for my client. I can't thank him enough for his courtesy, professionalism and willingness to help out a fellow lawyer in the community. It is truly a joy to work along the side of Mr. Pfeiffer. If I ever found myself in need of legal representation, I would want him by my side all the way."
"Attorney Pfeiffer is one of the best DUI lawyers in the area. He is knowledgeable, trustworthy and always well prepared."
"I HIGHLY endorse Stephen! He is one of the most talented trial lawyers in our community and his continued successes and knowledge of the law is what sets him apart and makes him stand above his VA Beach colleagues!"
"Mr. Pfeiffer has earned his reputation as the "go-to" DUI and criminal defense attorney through years of hard work and successful results for his clients. He handles each case with respect, care, and unmatched dedication. He is the attorney you want in your corner and I highly endorse his work."
"Smart lawyer who can get the tough cases resolved with a good result. Highly recommend."
"Stephen is an amazing advocate, who deeply cares about his clients and the outcome of the cases he undertakes. He is attentive, compassionate, and dedicated not only to his clients, but colleagues and family. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with Stephen and highly recommend him to all in need of representation in any criminal or DUI matters."
"Stephen is the best attorney in the area. Not only does he care and work extremely hard for his clients, but he gets RESULTS too! Those that need the best criminal defense lawyer for your case look no further. I highly recommend Stephen."
"Everyone in Virginia Beach knows and loves Steve. He's extremely knowledgeable on all issues involving DUI and criminal defense. If you want a top dog in the area, you go to Stephen Pfeiffer."
"Stephen is always prepared and ready for trial. He is a go getter. Not only is he always prepared, but it is apparent that he enjoys what he does."
"Mr. Pfeiffer is a terrific defense attorney for those who face the potential for harsh penalties following a DUI arrest. I feel confident in referring my clients to him for his legal counsel."
"Mr. Pfeiffer is considered the "go-to guy" for DWI and DUI matters in Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads in general. He is dedicated to providing the best legal representation possible. He stays up to date on new case law and decisions and maintains good relationships with fellow attorneys and Judges. He also provides excellent representation in Federal and State criminal matters. I strongly endorse Mr. Pfeiffer and have enjoyed working with him, and learning from him, over the years."
"Mr. Pfeiffer is an excellent DUI attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
"Stephen is an excellent attorney. As a fellow criminal defense attorney in Virginia Beach, I trusted him to help a family member of mine and he did an outstanding job. I would recommend him to anyone."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with Mr. Pfeiffer for many years and have found him to be one of the most effective, vigorous, tenacious, and likeable criminal defense (including DUI and DWI) attorneys I have ever known."
Katherine Coltrain
Criminal defense lawyer
Jonathan Katz
DUI and DWI lawyer
Sebastiano Lorello
Criminal defense lawyer
Brian Latuga
Criminal defense lawyer
Bassel Khalaf
Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer
David McKenzie
DUI and DWI lawyer
Diane Toscano
Family lawyer
Griffin O'Hanlon
Personal injury lawyer
Kathlyn Flora
Bankruptcy and debt lawyer
Chelsea Foley
Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer
Christopher Baker
Bankruptcy and debt lawyer
Justin Bush
Litigation lawyer
John Burton
Elder law lawyer
Timothy Koller
Family lawyer
Webb Basnight
Divorce and separation lawyer
Kristin Paulding
Juvenile law lawyer
Jennifer Little
Criminal defense lawyer
Andrew Meyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Ethan Meaney
DUI and DWI lawyer
James Bickford
DUI and DWI lawyer
Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2021
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2020
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2020
Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2020
Client's Choice, Avvo
2019
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2019
Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2019
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2018
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2018
Top 40 Under 40, Inside Business Magazine
2017
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2016
Top 10 Under 40, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
2016
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2016
Top 40 Under 40, The American Society For Legal Advocates
2016
Super Lawyer, Virginia Super Lawyers
2016
Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2015
Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers for Virginia, The American Society of Legal Advocates
2015
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2015
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Top Lawyer, Coastal Virginia Magazine
2015
Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2015
Super Lawyer, Virginia Super Lawyers
2014
Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2014
Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2014
Rising Star, Virginia Super Lawyers
2013
Rising Star, Virginia Super Lawyers
2012
Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2012
Rising Star, Virginia Super Lawyers
2011
Virginia's Legal Elite, Virginia Business Magazine
2007
National Champion Legal Negotiations, American Bar Association
Work Experience
2007 - Present
Partner, Wolcott Rivers Gates
2011 - 2019
Adjunct Professor, Regent University School Of Law
2006 - 2006
Summer Attorney for Gang's Bureau, Maricopa County -Attorney's Office
Associations
2017 - Present
James Kent American Inn of CourtExecutive Committee Member
2013 - Present
Virginia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersBoard Member
2013 - Present
Virginia Beach Bar AssociationChair of Young Lawyers Division
2013 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember
2009 - Present
CBDXCo-Founder and President
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Virginia Trucking Association
James Kent American Inn of Court
Community Association Institute ("CAI")
Virginia Beach Bar Association
Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Central Business District Association (Virginia Beach CBDA)
Board of Directors
2008 - 2009
Virginia State Bar, Young Lawyers ConferenceBoard of Governors
Sample of Legal Cases
David M. Morris, II v. City of Virginia Beach
See: http://www.courts.state.va.us/opinions/opncavwp/0580101.pdf
Education
2007
Regent University School of Law
JD
2004
Carroll College Waukesha, WI
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2017
DUI BOOTCAMP
DUI DEFENSE
2017
DUI BOOTCAMP
DUI DEFENSE
2014
WVEC Channel 13 News
Interview On DUI
2012
Landlord Tenant Law "Surviving in a Difficult Economy"
Landlord's Rights and Options When the Deal Goes Bad
2012
CA Day 2012
Advanced Collections
2011
SEVCAI's Board Member Boot CAMP
Legal Foundations
2011
CA Day
Collections
2010
Landlord Tenant Law
Ethical Consideration in Landlord/Tenant Law
2009
Debt Collections
Navigating the Service Members Relief Act
Publications
2014
Wolcott Rivers Gates Legal Notes
YOU CAN REFUSE FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS
2013
Inside the Minds (Aspatore Books)
The Legality of Search and Seizure in DUI Cases "A Practitioner's Everyday Insight into DWI/DUI Defense in Virginia"
2011
Currents
"Lights, Cameras, Action: How to Deal with Disruptive Videoing"
2009
Docket Call (VSB YLC Newsletter)
Construction Fraud: Not Just a Civil Matter
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Top Contributor
Stephen earned significant contribution points in 2017.
Legal Answers
Q&A
Even though my driving license have been suspended for a DUI in 1999 but in order for me to get my d
28 Mar 2026
Q&A
Motion to re-open in GDC or continue with my appeal to Circuit Court - Speeding ticket, ex-parte?
19 May 2025
Q&A
Will I get jail time?
13 Jun 2024
Legal Guides
Video Legal Guide
How to Find the Right Attorney for a DWI / DUI Charge
28 Oct 2019
Legal Guide
Virginai DUI Breath Tests and the 20 Minute Observation
05 Jun 2015
Legal Guide
One Simple Way to Help Your Defense of a DUI/DWI Charge in Virginia
28 May 2013