Skip to main content

Jessica Katherine Stern

Criminal defense Attorney at Atlanta, GA

4.8   36 reviews

also known as Jessica Stern

Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State GA
    Acquired 2008
    Status
    Active Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Jessica

Learn Jessica’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    45%
    Zealously represent non-U.S. citizens charged with criminal offenses throughout all stages of the process. Promote effective client-centered communication and advocacy. Strongly believe that we are not defined by the worst things we (may) have done.

  2. Immigration
    45%
    Non-U.S. citizen clients with prior criminal arrests or convictions need effective representation in immigration removal/deportation proceedings. It is beneficial to have an attorney that understands both criminal and immigration law.

  3. Appeals
    10%
    Post-conviction relief can be critical for many people, especially for non-U.S. citizens seeking relief or benefits. Work on expungement matters, sentence modifications, probation revocation proceedings, direct appeals and habeas corpus petitions.

CRIMMIGRATION LAW EXPERT, IMMIGRATION CONSEQUENCES ANALYSES FOR CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS ACROSS THE NATION. & FOUNDER OF STERN LAW, LLC AND OF-COUNSEL/CONSULTANT
Jessica Stern, Managing AttorneyJessica Stern is a bright, spirited courtroom lawyer and a champion for justice. Blending years of experience as a public defender and an attorney with a well-respected federal criminal defense firm, Jessica founded STERN Law, LLC in 2013.

Built exclusively to protect . citizens, STERN Law is the first 100% CrImmigration law firm in the nation. Jessica and her carefully-selected team focus completely on the defense of . citizens throughout an entire criminal case with protection from deportation consequences, fight against deportation in Immigration Court, and diligently pursue lawful status through applications for immigration benefits nationwide.

She ensures quality representation to those in need of a client-centered, compassionate, and no-nonsense legal team. Despite common systematic and societal challenges, Jessica never takes lightly the responsibility to provide each and every person with respect and the best shot at winning. She is not afraid to push the envelope and challenge common practices in order to uphold and protect one’s constitutional rights and the basic principles of fairness. To that end, she is a firm believer that individuals are not defined by the worst thing they (may) have done in life.

Jessica values her courtroom experience, where she has litigated well over a thousand felony cases and complicated deportation trials. She has built skill through careful investigation and methodical research, strategic negotiations with the government, effective client communication, hundreds of motions arguments before various judges, and the willingness to force the government to prove its case at a jury trial. Jessica not only views success in the trials and motions she has won, but also in the dismissals and charge reductions, in arguments that change a judge’s view on a sentencing statute or evidentiary law, and most importantly in the overall satisfaction of the people she has represented.

Jessica is extremely knowledgeable about post-conviction relief options and enjoys counseling criminal defense attorneys through the Padilla Immigration Consequences analysis.

Jessica is admitted to the Bar in the State of Georgia, the Georgia Court of Appeals, and the Georgia Supreme Court. Jessica is also admitted to practice before the United States District Court in the Northern District of Georgia. Jessica was  appointed in 2014 to the Bar’s Judicial Selection & Tenure Committee and sits on the City of Atlanta Board of Ethics through 2018. She is the former Chair of the Atlanta Bar Association’s Criminal Law Section Board (2014-2015) and served on the Board of the Women in the Profession Section from 2012-2014.  She’s an active member of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (GACDL) and the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), serving on the chapter’s ICE liaison committee for the past few years. 

Photos and videos

Contact Jessica

STERN Law, LLC
1100 Spring Street NW
Suite 400
Atlanta, GA, 30309

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  36 customer reviews
Posted by Charles | August 4, 2010
When you think you have no way, she will find a way.
Ms. Stern was very knowledgable, honest and most of all compassionate. She will defend you as if your her only client and she's in it, to win it and she has no fear. She took a no win situation and turned it into a slam dunk. After my case was over she and I were the only ones leaving the courtroom happy. I am sure you will be reading and hearing about her soon. She is going to be a superstar. You will forget she is a Public Defender.
Read less
Posted by Jason | February 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Attorney of Action
Jessica Stern is stellar. Deep skill set, abundant knowledge, and a caring and compassionate advocate for her clients. I've worked directly with her and will attest to her abilities. She is always my first call when I have an immigration issue.
Posted by Pablo | December 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superb!
I have used Jessica's services twice now and both times her and her staff have been so attentive and show they actually care about each case. thanks to them i know am a permanent resident and will hire her again when I apply for my citizenship.
Posted by Nelly | October 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
U visa
I appreciate Jessica and all her hard working team. They are very honest, humble and prices are very fair . My heros love this law firm!
Posted by anonymous | October 1, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Versatile.
To the readers my name is Joe Alford. Mrs. Stern represented me on a case in 2010 she has been a wonderful counselor to me over the year's.Eventhough I'm in prison for my wrong doing over the year's she has given me good advice an guidance on how to educate myself and take responsibility by not letting my past failures define me. Get legal consultation from her and be in awe. For the 7 year's I've known her putting her clients first really is more than just her job it's her passion.I don't feel afraid to do right now and I thank God for allowing me to meet her she is an inspiration.
Read less
Response from Jessica Stern October 18, 2017
Thank you, Joe. You've been an inspiration to me over the years with your hard work to pursue an education while in prison and your positive spirit. You encourage me to never give up!
Posted by Tatiana | February 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Jessica Stern
Jessica is an excellent lawyer! She is responsive, hard-working, knowledgeable, and honest. She helped me in a really difficult criminal case (which was dismissed). Additionally, she made sure I clearly understood the legal terms and outcomes. I will definitely HIGHLY recommend Stern Law to my friends!!!
Posted by Gustavo | October 27, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Impeccable Pro Bono Work
Attorney Jessica Stern is a great lawyer. She helped me fight an outstanding warrant for something I did not do. Her attention to the details in my case made a huge difference and it appeared to count to the detective who had issued my warrant. Attorney Stern is also skilled at delivering case status updates and responds in a timely manner. During the time she worked with me, I never felt my case received any less attention than her other cases. Partially because of her efforts and those of another highly competitive attorney, I can now say that my life has improved thanks to the work of Attorney Stern. Shortly after achieving the best results I could have hoped for in my case, I was able to apply for DACA and I now work at a non-profit law firm in NYC. It is thanks to lawyers such as Jessica Stern that people like me believe justice can be achieved. Thank you, Attorney Stern.
Read less
Posted by Jackson Penny | June 14, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Couldn't have hoped for a better outcome
Ms. Stern represented me for a lengthy case (a year plus). She was attentive the ENTIRE time, which is comforting at a time like that. When you call her, you actually get her (if you do reach her assistant, she is also very helpful and responsive). I'm completely satisfied with the outcome of my case, the work she did (investigational work included), and her expertise. I'd recommend Ms. Stern to anyone in need of criminal charges representation.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best attorney there is
Jessica stern is very professional always keeps you updated and honest best there is on immigration helped me bring my husband back after a denial at the consulate.
Posted by Najam | March 29, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An attorney with a heart of Gold, Crystal clear thinking and nerves of steel
Good people are hard to find and attorneys especially ethical attorneys, are scarce. Jesica Stern's high morals, professional ethics and passion for justice shows in every step of the to represent her clients. Jesdica had restored my faith in lawyers. If thrte is such a thing as "good people" then thrte definetely are a few good attorneys and Jessica tops the list.
Read less
Posted by Oluseun | May 29, 2015
Stern Law
Jessica Stern is very Intelligent and highly Professional. She represented me on a Criminal case and an Immigration Case within a period of 6 months, the outcome was Success!
Posted by Sumbul | March 5, 2015
Jessica Stern--the most sincere
Jessica Stern was my brother's criminal defense and immigration lawyer. Jessica was fairly confident in my little brother's criminal part, but his immigration seemed complicated. At the time, my family consisted of my mom and younger brother and sister (excluding the incarcerated brother and myself). My mom was also from an older generation of immigrants to the USA. And I can honestly say that Jessica had so much patience and kindness towards my mom while also being very professional. I've talked with my parent's immigration attorneys before but Jessica was different. She was very understanding and empathetic--that we weren't just another case to her, but also human. Of course, my brother's case took time given both criminal and immigration issues, but his case was resolved very well, and he is happily back with us. Instead of being incarcerated or deported, he was released on probation. My family is very grateful toward all her efforts. On a side note: I love Jessica Stern! I will ALWAYS recommend her. She is the character of a great attorney and embodiment of women empowerment. She brings the word STERN to a whole another level.
Read less
Posted by yovany | January 6, 2015
criminal and immigration case
Ms . Stern is a wonderful lawyer and had a big impact on my case. She is well experience and arrived 30 minutes early for my court representation. She is interested in knowing your case well to represent with clarity and profound passionate for best results on the individual. I look forward to working with her in the future!
Response from Jessica Stern January 8, 2015
Yovany, thank you. You came to court very prepared and you were completely aware of the consequences and risks. I am happy to know you and proud to represent you today and throughout the ongoing process.
Posted by Stella | September 30, 2014
The Best Criminal/ Immigration Lawyer in Georgia
My family had gone through 3 lawyers before we met Attorney Jessica Stern, but honestly, she was more than worth the wait. Having never truly dealt with the legal system, we were shocked at how unknowledgeable and ineffective many lawyers are. However, Attorney Stern is different. She is very knowledgeable, truthful, and committed to any case she accepts. She intuitively understands her clients and will work very diligently to a successful end if at all possible. As a bonus, she's naturally very likeable which helps to enhance her working relationships with the judges and opposing counsel. If you need a criminal or immigration lawyer, you have found the best there is. Our family will always be deeply appreciative for everything you've done
Read less
Response from Jessica Stern January 8, 2015
Thank you so much, Stella. Your son's situation was very complex, but we all worked together to do everything possible. I am over the moon about our success in court and his release from custody after more than a year! I hope that everyone is doing very well.
Posted by Jonathan | November 25, 2013
Excellent and professional representation
I recently had a serious matter I needed to have resolved and Stern Law took care of it! Shes very professional and driven to get serious matters resolved in a timely manner with exception results! Thank you so much Stern Law for everything you did! I highly recommend Stern Law to anyone looking for legal assistance.
Posted by Mac | October 14, 2013
Excellent Service and a big help
Ms. Stern was extremely helpful in helping me navigate a difficult legal situation and reach an outcome in court that was very beneficial to me. I appreciate her services very much and would recommend them to anyone who is looking to hire an attorney in the Atlanta Area.
Posted by Joe Alford | October 14, 2013
A Blessing in Disguise
Plain and simple Jessica Stern is the absolute best there is, the best there was, and the one and only best lawyers compared to others; she is the best there ever will be. My name is Joe Alford. She has represented me for the past three years and she is also my mentor/friend, and since I've known her I can honestly say that I am a law-abiding citizen thanks to Jessica Stern coming into my life three years ago. Much love and support to you Jessica! To the reading viewers she is the best compassionate friendly and competitive lawyer around, and that is the God's honest truth. Don't overlook a true and living blessing in disguise. Her representation for you could be a life-changing and growth development experience as it has been for me.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2013
Great Job
Jessica is knowledgeable, professional and personable. I felt like she knew her profession and trusted that she would be able to represent me competently. Her professionalism was appreciated and was good at being direct with me as this increased my confidence in her. It was also nice that she was easy to deal with and this made a hard time a little easier. My case was dismissed and I am very happy with her work. I would recommend her to people I know.
Read less
Response from Jessica Stern September 3, 2013
Thank you for your vote of confidence. It was a pleasure to work with you on this difficult situation, and I am very glad that it is now over for you! Best of luck to you moving forward.
Posted by BOYCE | August 30, 2013
Most Outstanding and compassionate lawyer
Jessica stern was very helpful with my case and got my traffic and drug charges dismissed
Response from Jessica Stern September 3, 2013
Thank you, Boyce. Now go out there and conquer the world! No more arrests!
Posted by anonymous | July 17, 2013
Excellent, professional attorney
Jessica is one of the most trustworthy, diligent and personable attorney you can come across. While being excellent in response, she understands the needs of a person before taking the right action and is ready to go to any length in getting the case resolved/dismissed the right way. I am absolutely pleased to have been associated with her for my case and would recommend her as well as her firm to everyone. Thank you very much for your efforts.
Read less
Response from Jessica Stern September 3, 2013
I'm so happy that this worked out as you had hoped. You were determined to handle this properly, and your efforts had a lot to do with the outcome as well. I wish you the best!
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 250-300 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Staff Attorney
  • Atlanta Judicial Circuit Public Defenders Office
  • 2008 - 2011
  • Legal Clerk
  • US Army JAG Corps
  • 2007 - 2007
  • Legal Clerk/Investigator
  • Southern Center for Human Rights
  • 2006 - 2007
  • Judicial clerk
  • Middlesex Juvenile Court
  • 2006 - 2006
  • Paralegal
  • Orange County Public Defender
  • 2004 - 2005
View all work experience

Education

  • Northeastern University School of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 2008
  • University of Central Florida
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • 2005

Associations

  • Atlanta Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
  • Board Member, At Large
  • 2012 - Present
  • Georgia Association for Women Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Atlanta Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Atlanta Bar Association, Atlanta Council of Younger Lawyers Section
  • 2011 - Present
  • Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Phi Alpha Delta
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • Building Locally to Organize for Community Safety (BLOCS)
  • Member
  • 2009 - 2010
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Training Certification Award
  • Southern Public Defender Training Program
  • 2009

Attorney endorsements

Received (28)
Given (24)
Endorse Jessica
Immigration Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Jessica for about 10 years through practicing in Atlanta. She truly cares for her clients and has a passion for her work. She is a formidable adversary in the courtroom and is extremely knowledgeable in her field."
Immigration Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica and her team are passionate about ensuring all people are protected and given their rights in our country and legal system. She is not only an expert, but she is an advocate. I highly recommend her and her team."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Immigration Attorney | Jul 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jess is a fantastic lawyer who truly cares about her clients. She will work tirelessly for their cause to achieve the results they desire. I endorse her without hesitation."
Immigration Attorney | Jun 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica is a great attorney who displays great compassion for her clients and their delicate criminal and immigration issues. She is a pleasure to work with. I would and have referred clients to her!"
Criminal defense Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica is a kind, passionate and tireless advocate. I'm proud to know her and any client should be proud to be represented by her."
Immigration Attorney | Mar 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Very passionate and dedicated lawyer."
Immigration Attorney | Jan 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica is a rock star lawyer. She is passionate, energetic, intelligent, and dedicated wholeheartedly to her clients. Jessica is also a great resource in the legal community. Her background as a criminal defense attorney gives her valuable expertise in the immigration consequences of criminal convictions. The legal community is fortunate to have Jessica as a leader and a resource and her clients are very fortunate to have her as their lawyer."
Immigration Attorney | Aug 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica Stern is an exceptional advocate for her clients. She is well versed in the nuances of immigration law and criminal defense, as well as the intersection of the two areas. I highly recommend and endorse this attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica is a highly skilled lawyer with the intelligence, experience, and unique skill set that make her an invaluable advocate for any client. I would refer anybody with immigration or serious felony issues to Jessica; I endorse her without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica is an extremely talented attorney who will fight for her clients all the way to the Court of Appeals. She is also highly qualified in the arena of Immigration law where she will relentlessly pursue justice on behalf of her clients. I would not hesitate in endorsing this attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica is a passionate advocate who will work tirelessly to obtain the best results for her clients. She treats clients like family and works as hard for them. You would be well served to be represented by Jessica, I highly recommend her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Jessica. She is an exceptional attorney who is hard-working, sincere, and ethical. She will work hard to get you the result you need."
Immigration Attorney | Oct 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. stern is a no-nonsense lawyer who truly has passion for her work and for helping others."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica, is an elite attorney well respected by her peers. I recommend her highly."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I know few lawyers that command the respect of the criminal defense bar like Jessica. Her passion for justice and intense work ethic truly benefit her clients. If I can't take a case, I give that person one piece of advice: Call Jessica."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jessica is an extremely knowledgeable and dedicated attorney. She knows the law and zealously advocates for her clients. I highly recommend Jessica for any criminal defense or immigration needs."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jessica is an extremely passionate and talented attorney. Her dedication to her clients is unmatched and her gift for arguing motions and making arguments at trial demonstrate a talent beyond her years. I endorse Jessica without hesitation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Jessica. She is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Stern is the epitome of a great attorney. She knows the law and she has a great personality. I worked with her and sometimes under her direction while employed at the Atlanta Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office. I always felt I was in great company when I worked with her or even dined with her. You are very well invested when you retain Ms. Stern."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
White collar crime
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Estate planning
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Immigration
Criminal defense
Entertainment
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Estate planning
Criminal defense
Chapter 7 bankruptcy
Criminal defense