J. Steven House

PRO

J. Steven House

also known as Steven House

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 26 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Madison, WI
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Appeals, Speeding & Traffic Ticket

139 W. Wilson Street, Suite 108, Madison, WI

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About J. Steven

Biography

Reasonable flat rate fees for experienced and aggressive defense of OWI charges.

Experienced and successful post-conviction and appellate representation in criminal cases.

Client tailored negotiation and defense of traffic offenses, civil and criminal.

Aggressive, client oriented defense to preserve your rights and obtain the best result in your case.

Aggressive, client oriented defense to preserve your rights and obtain the best result in your case.

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

Defending clients charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses at trial and on appeal.

27 years

50%
DUI and DWI 40%

Defending clients charged with civil, misdemeanor and felony offenses related to impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs and prescription medications. I handle cases in municipal courts through trial courts and appeals when requested.

27 years

40%
Appeals 5%

I handle appeals on all traffic and criminal matters with a focus on issues of constitutional law and statutory interpretation.

27 years

5%
Speeding and Traffic Ticket 5%

Successfully counseling and defending standard and CDL clients charged with traffic violation in municipal and circuit courts.

27 years

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2020 2019 2018
...
+ 5
Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2019 2018 2016
...
+ 3

Licenses

Licensed in Wisconsin for 20 years

State: Wisconsin

Acquired: 2006

Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in Tennessee for 26 years

State: Tennessee

Acquired: 2000

Surrendered

No misconduct found

Location

House Law Office

139 W. Wilson Street, Suite 108, Madison, WI, 53703

DaneDefense.com

J. Steven House's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

72 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 7 reviews | Compassion

Posted by Jim | October 30, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Hire Attorney House !!

My Dr Prescribed me full spectrum CBD oil for my Anxiety disorder and Opioid cravings as an alternative because the only other medication that works no dr is comfortable prescribing anymore And it worked wonders. No more being rushed to the hospital from work with heart attack symptoms No more feelin...g weird for days because of medication that doesn’t work at all and then the dept of corrections tells me that I cannot take it and that every UA that results in positive test for THC will be considered a violation and I switched to isolate that doesn’t work nearly as well and takes large doses and doesn’t always work so I contacted numerous attorneys and the only other attorney willing to take my case tried using scare tactics on me so I searched online and found Attorney House and he has done more for me than any other attorney I have ever had.He took my case and I believe he really cared about what I was going through and he did tons of research and was in contact with the powers that be and was able to get them to reverse their decision and I am now allowed to take the only medication that treats my Anxiety disorder and helps with my addiction issues that is available to me and for that I am truly grateful.He stayed in contact with me and felt more like a friend than an attorney and he came through for me and got my quality of life back for me because my anxiety issues are debilitating and I will be recommending him to everyone that needs an attorney.I believe Steven House genuinely cared about me and wanted to help me and he did.I hope I never need an attorney again but if I do I know who I am calling.

Posted by Jeffrey | April 23, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

#1 Lawyer

Mr. House was a life saver for me, period. The fact that he gives discounts on cannabis or (THC) cases shows how much he cares. It's so important to me that we all push towards getting our freedom of medicinal plants and Steven is a NORML member doing just that. If you're unsure of the NORML movement... I suggest you get on board and get this amazing plant as well as other medicinals freed. The DA was trying to give me 3 years prison and 5 years parole for a false gun charge and 4 other felonies including 1 maintaining and trafficking a drug house , 2 charges of distributions and 1 charge possession with intent. All for giving a medicinal plant to my "cousin" Robert Kuruc jr who unfortunately got caught, got my house raided and told on me. Number one rule don't ever say anything to the police or anybody. In my opinion call Mr. Steven House!!!! This is the second time he has helped me out and he acually cares about people! Which is rare when it comes to most people, including lawyers. Most of them are in it for the money only, if you don't beileve me call around and watch how they act compared to someone like Steven who acually cares. With his wisdom and knowledge of the laws I only got 3 months ankle bracelet and 2 years probation. Considering the max on all the charges was about 15 years prison, my life has been saved!!! Just want to give a big shout out to Mr. Steven House for all the researh, wisdom and care you put in my case and so many others. If you choose Mr House to represent you I promise your in good hands. The work he put in was phenomenal to say the least. Mr Steven House is a person of great value to our society, he truly makes life better for all. I couldn't thank you enough Steven (THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING I'LL NEVER FORGET WHAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR ME AND CONTINUE TO DO FOR OTHERS!!!!)

Posted by Dustin | October 13, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Handled my case above and beyond expectation!

Steven House is one of the sharpest, most trustworthy and diligent people I've met. He not only yielded the best possible results in my case, but he put my mind at ease and gave me reassurance during one of the most difficult and stressful times of my life. Prior to hiring Mr. House, another attorney... had been handling my case for the first several months. The first attorney handling my case mislead me to the understanding of my felony drug charges and took the easiest route possible in order to reach a plea deal with the prosecutor. I agreed to accept the original plea deal (under the guidance of the first attorney). However prior to my final sentencing I decided to get some secondary opinions pertaining to my charges. Steven House was the only attorney to take an in-depth look and inform me of my other options. Mr. House was able to get the original plea deal withdrawn and get the charges dropped down to a lesser offense. I ended up receiving three months on the electronic monitoring program and three years of probation (opposed to one year in jail and four years of probation as recommended with the original plea bargain). Most importantly he saved my career in aviation. In the end it pays to have a good attorney, and Steven House is among the best! I have the utmost gratitude and respect for Mr. House, and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal counsel. Thank you again for your hard work and dedication!

Posted by Adam | July 09, 2014 | Criminal Defense

Mr. House Over-Delivers

Shortly after a night of questionable decisions I contacted Mr. House with many questions and worries. Mr. House responded promptly and fielded every question I could throw at him in a manner that made me feel as if my case was a priority. To say he eased my worries would definitely be an understatem...ent. My case had a few wrinkles that made me fear additional charges being brought against me. Mr. House not only defended me from additional charges, he was able to get my original charges completely dropped! Every step of the process Mr. House ensured I was informed and truly looked after my best interests. If are in a fix and reading this review; look no further, J Steven House is an exceptional lawyer and human being.

Posted by anonymous | January 12, 2014 | Criminal Defense

First Class

Every one makes mistakes in their life. Unfortunately one of the mistakes I made could've cost me severely. Mr. House was very understanding and compassionate about my case. After our initial meeting I left feeling as though things would be ok. Not to mention the fact that his rates were very r...easonable, which eased my mind even more. Long story short.... all charges ended up being dropped. Hoping I will never need his services again, but if I do, he will definitely get the call.

See All Client Reviews

J. Steven House's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse J. Steven
Jim D Owen headshot
Jim Owen

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 10

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Great Lawyer! I highly endorse this lawyer."

Anthony Jurek headshot
Anthony Jurek

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney House is a generous and insightful colleague. He's well respected in the local legal community, and for good reason: He's gracious with his time, intuitive with his feedback, and goes the extra mile to foster collegiality among the local defense bar. I unhesitatingly endorse Atty. House."

Adam P. Nero headshot
Adam Nero

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steven has the necessary intellect, personality, and experience. I would recommend his services in handling any criminal matter."

Timothy D. Kiefer headshot
Timothy Kiefer

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sarah M. Schmeiser headshot
Sarah Schmeiser

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steven House is a great attorney. He knows the law and never stops working for his clients. A great attorney to have on your side!"

James Richie Owen headshot
James Owen

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I worked with Stephen for many years. I admire his zealous and enthusiastic advocacy. He truly loves to challenge the government and to fight for his clients."

Bryony G Swift headshot
Bryony Swift

Unknown lawyer | Aug 07

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I strongly endorse Steven. He is thorough, meticulous, and truly cares about getting the best possible results for his clients."

Michael E. Covey headshot
Michael Covey

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney House is one of the best lawyers in the State for defending drugged driving cases. I have been impressed with his knowledge and his willingness to assist other attorneys with their drugged driving cases."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Steven. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Mark P. Maciolek headshot
Mark Maciolek

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steven House is an excellent attorney. He is highly intelligent and capable of handling complex and difficult cases for his clients."

Norman D. Farnam headshot
Norman Farnam

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jennifer Hanna headshot
Jennifer Hanna

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Holevoet headshot
John Holevoet

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Attorney House for several years. He's a consummate professional and a leader within the Dane County defense bar. I gladly endorse this lawyer."

Matisyahu Wolfberg headshot
Matisyahu Wolfberg

Appeals lawyer | Nov 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Karyn T. Missimer headshot
Karyn Missimer

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steve is tenacious both in and out of court. Further, he is creative and leaves no stone unturned for his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend him to a friend or family member in need, or use his services myself. I endorse this lawyer."

Michael E. Rudolph headshot
Michael Rudolph

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 23

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer.I first contacted Mr. House because he had written a very useful and informative article in the Champion which is the Magazine of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. The article was on confidentiality for alcohol and other drug abuse programs guaranteed by federal law. The article helped me tremendously. I was thrilled to see Steve moved to Wisconsin after writing that article. He is an authority on driving under the influence of controlled substances. When Steve has something to say on the matter of driving under the influence of controlled substances, people listen including lawyers. He is very educated on the subject and seems to have a mastery of it. I know he has great trial experience in multiple areas. I've sought out and been impressed by his cross examinations. I would strongly recommend Steve."

Richard L Holcomb headshot
Richard Holcomb

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 08

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Steven is an excellent lawyer and shined as a public defender. Steven was very helpful to me early in my career. He is a lawyer who cares about his cases and clients. As a result, he fights the government - which is what any criminal defendant needs. If you are charged with a crime in Wisconsin, you should hire Steven."

Christopher Lyle Kuehn headshot
Christopher Kuehn

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 24

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Steven and I worked on a matter with co-defendants in a rather elaborate drug house case. Steven was knew his job and his case inside and out. He is a very gifted attorney who truly understands his profession as well as an ability to help his clients to get the best result possible."

Aaron Jon Butler headshot
Aaron Butler

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 29

Relationship: Friend

"I have known Mr. House for many years. He is a thoughtful, dedicated and extremely intelligent person. He has been very successful as an attorney, and I am confident he will see continued success. I recommend him to anyone who needs an uncompromising advocate on their side."

View All Endorsements
Mary Ellen Coleman headshot
Mary Coleman

Criminal defense lawyer

Eric S. Maciolek headshot
Eric Maciolek

Criminal defense lawyer

Victor J. Forberger headshot
Victor Forberger

Employment and labor lawyer

Jim D Owen headshot
Jim Owen

Unknown lawyer

Emily Jane Bell headshot
Emily Bell

DUI and DWI lawyer

Gregory J. Meeker headshot
Gregory Meeker

Criminal defense lawyer

Davorin J. Odrcic headshot
Davorin Odrcic

Immigration lawyer

Adam P. Nero headshot
Adam Nero

Appeals lawyer

Jason D Sanders headshot
Jason Sanders

Criminal defense lawyer

Christopher P. August headshot
Christopher August

Criminal defense lawyer

Sarah M. Schmeiser headshot
Sarah Schmeiser

Criminal defense lawyer

James Richie Owen headshot
James Owen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Bryony G Swift headshot
Bryony Swift

Litigation lawyer

Timothy D. Kiefer headshot
Timothy Kiefer

Criminal defense lawyer

John T. Bayer headshot
John Bayer

DUI and DWI lawyer

Patricia K. Hammel headshot
Patricia Hammel

Litigation lawyer

Sasa Johnen headshot
Sasa Johnen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Robert R. Henak headshot
Robert Henak

Appeals lawyer

Erik R. Guenther headshot
Erik Guenther

Criminal defense lawyer

Paul F X Schwartz headshot
Paul Schwartz

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer - Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer - Criminal Defense, SuperLawyers

2020

Client's Choice, Avvo

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Five Star client satisfaction rating, Google

2016

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2013

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2012

NHTSA Field Sobriety Test Administration Certifiction, Platt and Associates

1999

Harno Fellow, University of Illinois College of Law

1999

Magna Cum Laude honors, University of Illinois College of Law

1994

Honors Society in Philosophy, Phi Sigma Tau

Work Experience

2010 - Present

Owner-Attorney, House Law Office

2009 - 2010

Attorney, Mays Law Office, LLC.

2006 - 2008

Owner-Attorney, Law Office of J. Steven House

2000 - 2006

Attorney, Knox County Public Defender Community Law Office

Associations

2014 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Attorney Member

2013 - Present

Dane County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Treasurer

2007 - Present

United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit

Admitted to Practice

2006 - Present

Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Attorney Member

2006 - Present

United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin

Admitted to Practice

2006 - Present

Dane County Bar Association

Attorney Member

2006 - Present

NORML Legal Committee

Attorney Member

2005 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Attorney Member

2000 - Present

American Civil Liberties Union

Member

2006 - 2012

Dane County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Past Secretary

2000 - 2006

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Attorney Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State v. Dale B.

Conviction vacated and case dismissed on post-conviction review.

State v. Andrew B.

Dismissal

State v. James M.

Convictions overturned on appeal

State v. Jill J.

Dismissal.

State v. Dexter W.

Not guilty verdicts on all charges at jury trial

State v. Dustin L.

Sucessfully withdrew prior plea and secured amended charge of drug possession.

Fitchburg v. Jessica S.

OWI amended to reckless driving.

Shorewood Hills v. Sam R.

OWI -THC dismissed with related THC and paraphernalia charges.

State v. Earline M.

Deferred prosecution on reduced charge.

State v. Charles G.

Felony stalking charge dismissed

Columbia County v. Micheal M.

Not guilty jury verdict on domestic battery allegation

Vill. of DeForest v. Daniel N.

OWI and OWI-THC dismissed

State v. Kevin R.

Perjury conviction reopened and dismissed

Waukesha v. Melissa H.

Not guilty jury verdict on OWI

State v. Alex O.

Not guilty jury verdict on domestic battery charge

State v. Antoine M.

Robbery by force and felony witness intimidation charges dismissed.

State v. Jeffrey G.

Felony drug charge reduced to misdemeanor, no jail and ultimately expunged.

State v. David T.

Probation in a presumptive prison case

State v. Jakeb M.

Deferred prosecution

State v. Jovahn H.

Dismissal of all felony charges

Sun Prairie v. Brian S. (appeal)

Dismissal of prosecutor's appeal of OWI/PAC dismissal.

City of Sun Prairie v. Brian S.

OWI and PAC charges dismissed at trial.

State v. Rance W. G.

Felony conviction vacted on appeal, search warrant results suppressed and motion for new trial granted

State v. Dexter L.W.

Felony substantial battery amended to misdemeanor offense.

State v. Luke T.G.

Domestic violence offense amended to county ordinance violation

State v. Ryan P. M.

Dismissal of domestic battery and deferred prosecution on disorderly conduct.

State v. Raymond G.H.

Narcotics delivery convictions overturned and vacated on appeal.

State v. Eddie G. E.

Dismissed on prosecutor's motion.

State v. David R. L.

Negotiated to be charged as a misdemeanor causing injury by driving under the influence of controlled substance

State v. Conner, 2009 WI App 143

WI Supreme Court petition for review granted.

Vill. of DeForest v. Roberta J. K

OWI/PAC 1st offense charges dismissed.

State v. Micah R. W.

OWI 2nd - THC dismissed, then amended to non-criminal reckless driving when re-charged.

State v. Alex G .S.

OWI 3d dismissed upon jury acquittal.

State v. Ronald E. H.

Dismissed on prosecutor's motion.

State v. Bradley J. D.

2nd offense OWI amended to reckless driving

State v. Duane B. B.

Dismissed on prosecutor's motion.

State v. Kong K. K.

Felony firearms offense reduced to misdemeanor disorderly conduct and a fine imposed as sentence.

State v. Jake D. K.

Possession w/ intent to deliever (>3-10 gr.) on heroin dismissed defense motion , plea to possession of narcotics negotiated to preclude further prosecution.

State v. David J. G.

OWI 3rd amended to non-criminal reckless driving.

State v. McGouey, 229 S.W.3d 668 (TN 2007)

TN Supreme Court overturned felony convictions.

See More Legal Cases

Education

1999

University of Illinois College of Law

Juris Doctor

1994

Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2018

Dane County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

The science of THC metabolism and driving impairment in the defense of OWI-THC homicide/injury cases

2006

2006 State Public Defender's Annual Training Conference HIPAA's Impact on Criminal, Juvenile, and Mentally Ill Clients

Publications

2009

Drunk Driving Defense 6th Ed., 2009 Supplment, by Lawrence Taylor and Steven Oberman, s. 11.07[G][2]. HIPAA - Evaluating the Applicability of HIPAA in a DUI Case

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

J. Steven earned significant contribution points in 2020.

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution