team-member

Julie Stephens

N/A

Licensed for 23 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Child custody

Language

English

About

Julie is a local girl born in Hammond, Indiana, raised in Highland and setttled in St. John.  After graduating high school in 1998, she attended Ball State University.  In 1992, she graduated cum laude with a B.S. degree in Psychological Science.  After college, she married her high school sweetheart and earned a Master’s degree in Psychology from Valparaiso University.  Before attending law school, Julie worked as the Director of the Sexual Assault Recovery Unit for the Porter County Prosecutor’s Office. After working with attorneys in the Prosecutor’s Office, Julie decided that she wanted to join them and enrolled at John Marshall Law School in Chicago. Not ever shying away from taking on something at full task, she contemperaneously started her family of two children. After she graduated in 1998 from law school while holding the hand of her toddler girl and pushing a stroller of her 5 month old son, she worked her way to partnership at a local law firm.  After fifteen years of working in a firm, she has moved forward to own her own law practice and now the rugrats are in high school. Julie is licensed to practice in the State of Indiana, the Northern and Southern District of Indiana and the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals.  Julie is also active in the Women’s Lawyer Association of Lake County.  Julie enjoys participating in her community as a frequent speaker at local middle schools on Law Day, acting as a legal liason for Scott Middle School in Hammond, Indiana helping teenage children learn skills of mediation during times of conflict. Julie retains enough energy to attend every sporting event for both of her children. Ever a sports enthusiest, she is usually found cheering on her high school children at soccer, track and cross country & following the Lake Central sports teams in the newspaper. What makes her tick:Sports!!!Interior DecoratingCooking and Baking Any beach

Practices Areas

Child custody

Child support

Divorce and separation

Family

Language

English

Contact

Stephens Law Firm, P.C.8051 Wicker AvenueSuite BSaint John, IN, 46373

Office: (219) 230-3627

Website: N/A

Reviews

Michelle
October 28, 2017

First thing, I cannot tell you enough how grateful I am to Julie. My divorce started a couple of years ago..Oct. 2015. I received my letter stating my husband filed for a divorce. My situation was very unique and complicated. I reached out to Julie and she along with her staff were nothing but wonderful. They passed no judgement on myself. Julie agreed to take on my divorce even though I could at the time only reach out to her via phone or email. She dealt a lot with my mom and as I stated her staff is fantastic. Julie is upfront and gives you all of your options, whether you like what she says or not. She wants you to know if you pursue this, this could happen. You will never enter into any decision without knowing possible outcomes. She really takes your case and puts forth more than her best effort. In my case, she exceeded my expectations. When my case started, I was not truly hopeful. I finally met Julie at a status hearing in April 2017, so for over a year and a half Julie worked with me on my case via phone and email. Through Julie's patience and persistence with certain matters, my divorce took a whole 360. One thing I will always tell anyone who obtains a lawyer, ALWAYS give them all the facts and let them decide what they need. Some things we may not think matter, they are actually huge and can truly help you. Also if somethings can hurt you, your lawyer needs to know to be able to properly represent you. We all make mistakes, but as always it is how you handle them, what you get out of them, and how you pick yourself back up after them that also matters, not just your mistake. Julie truly cares about her clients. She listens to what you want. She is very organized and communicates fantastically. Everything that was sent to his attorney, or anyone else was always sent to me. It is very nice to be included and updated as everything is going on. Her fees are very appropriate for her service. Remember divorces are never cheap, but when you are spending that kind of money you want someone who will put your best foot forward, listen to your concerns and advise you appropriately according to the law. I will end this like I started this I cannot tell you how grateful I am to Julie.

anonymous
October 19, 2017

I recommend Julie Stephens with the highest praise as a divorce attorney. Mrs. Stephens was an exceptional allie in my year-long divorce proceedings. I can honestly say that due to her diligence and tenacity, my divorce was settled fairly, swiftly, and without any unnecessary drama. She did her part to make sure the divorce proceeded on schedule at every turn, and she regularly updated me with any shared communications with my ex-spouse's lawyer and about any details regarding the progress of my case. She CC'd me on every correspondence to my ex's attorney, and I knew everything that needed to happen next in the proceedings as it arose. She was organized with checklists for me from the very beginning about what needed to be taken care of and decided, and she pointed me in specific directions, which was MUCH needed due to my ignorance of the process! During such a confusing and emotional time, she made it very easy on me by providing clear directions, giving much-needed information about my legal questions, and offering immediate feedback when I needed it. She was very knowledgable and was clearly working in MY best interest! I rarely had to inquire about "where we were at" about anything. However, when I did, she promptly replied and answered me clearly. She did not waste my time or money at ANY point in my year-long divorce. She was worth every penny! She replied to my emails and concerns VERY promptly. Her emails were clear and concise regarding the variety of questions I had about any curiousity or confusion regarding how to proceed, what was legal, and my rights as her client. At no point did I feel alone, confused, or like no one was in my corner. With two small children involved as well, she was sensitive to my concerns about them and made sure they were kept in mind throughout the process. She was the much needed rock I needed during such a difficult and trying time in my life, and she made me feel like I was worth everything I was legally due- and more! Her organization, straight-forward and friendly demeanor, and knowledge of the process left me feeling safe and VERY well represented throughout the entire divorce process. I cannot thank or recommend her enough!

Jeana
October 15, 2021

I was well informed of all situations. Staff was very helpful and caring. Would definitely reccomend

Cordero
February 19, 2021

As a lawyer attorney Stephens knows everything she needs to know to secure the victory and even just as a human she knows how to listen and understand your problems, requests and issues like they were her own I’d definitely recommend Attorny Julie to any and everyone!

anonymous
February 1, 2021

Very satisfied with my experience. Felt better having Julie on my side, than I would if she were on the other side of the table. Her staff is upfront, honest and patient. Always looking out for my best interest and not anyone else's

Justin
January 10, 2021

Julie and her associates are A+ professionals. They help keep you at ease when going through what might be the most challenging time of your life (at least it was for me). It is amazing your thought process going into divorce compares to coming out. Being male, I went in thinking and already conceding that I would only see my children every other weekend. That of course is the result of cultural stigma. I had previously set my goal to increase that 2 out of every 3 weekends. That was all before I spoke with Julie. Julie immediately adjusted those expectations to something way more favorable to me and my future relationship with my girls. This is a LIFE LONG decision you are making when you sign a marital settlement agreement. If Julie had not helped me undertstand my options and reset my expectations, things could have been way different, and once you sign that agreement - there is NOTHING you can do about it. Julie helped me understand that - as long as you are a good father - you are just as much entitled to equal parenting time as mom. I think Julie having a Masters in Psychology helps with all of this, especially when it comes to reasoning with opposing party to consider a more equitable custody agreement. It is a HUGE asset to have someone on your side who has knowledge and experience in human behavior! Julie was also incredibly responsive and attentive to me. Not once did I feel like she was ever "dragging her feet" or putting me to the side. She was the absolute opposite. In fact, opposing party was always dragging their feet and Julie was incredibly persistent and vigilant with staying on opposing party to continue progress in our case. Julie was also always after my best financial interest. If there was anything I was ever requesting that was going to rack up time on her end (and thus $$ out of my pocket), she was always very transparent about that. She was always advising me on things that were of value of the time needed to commit and where I was likely focusing on dead ends. She was very up front and clear - even if she knew it was something I wasn't going to enjoy hearing. But she always listened to everythihg I would say and not just discredit or invalidate me. She wanted to full understand my position before responding and giving advise. Whatever the equivalent for "bedside manner" in the world of lawyers is - her's was impeccable. You want a lawyer who is great with negotiation. You are never going to get everything you want out of a divroce. You need a lawyer who can find a good balance of what is most important to you and what is of good value (eg. attainable). You want someone who can then go in and exercise good negotiation skills with opposing party to attain the best outcome possible. That is Julie Stephens.

anonymous
December 2, 2020

My experience with Julie exceeded my expectations. She guided me through a divorce that was previously not moving forward for quite some time. She is extremely knowledgeable, professional, responds in a timely manner and was overall fantastic to work with. Her staff was also very helpful, professional, and pleasant. I would recommend Stephens Law Firm to anyone!

Lisa
August 17, 2020

Julie was the second attorney I went to after the first spent months doing nothing to further my case or work to resolve the immediate issues. When I hired Julie, things immediately began moving forward. She worked dilligently and reliably for me, protecting my interest and helping me achieve a good outcome. Highly recommended!

anonymous
June 8, 2020

Julie Stephens, without any doubt, provided phenomenal service for me. She walked me through the process and answered any questions I had. I enjoyed working with Nicole as well. Both of them did a great job and I highly recommend the firm.

Scott
May 28, 2020

Everytime I speak with Julie (or Nicole) I come away more impressed and happy that I found them. It is a divorce. It is YOUR divorce and that makes it challenging for you. Julie is great at figuring out what your needs are for your divorce and also what your wants are. You aren’t ever going to get 100% of what you want, the other person might want the same thing. She works non stop to ensure you get your needs and maximizes as much as possible the wants. She will also be honest with you. If a want is not worth the money to make something happen, she will tell you. It is still your decision, but she will let you know the cost benefit of the matter. I appreciate the honesty in her. She is out to help you, not solely enriching herself. In short she is a great advocate for anyone that is going through a divorce. She is truly amazing. Thank you Julie and Nicole

Michelle
October 28, 2017

First thing, I cannot tell you enough how grateful I am to Julie. My divorce started a couple of years ago..Oct. 2015. I received my letter stating my husband filed for a divorce. My situation was very unique and complicated. I reached out to Julie and she along with her staff were nothing but wonderful. They passed no judgement on myself. Julie agreed to take on my divorce even though I could at the time only reach out to her via phone or email. She dealt a lot with my mom and as I stated her staff is fantastic. Julie is upfront and gives you all of your options, whether you like what she says or not. She wants you to know if you pursue this, this could happen. You will never enter into any decision without knowing possible outcomes. She really takes your case and puts forth more than her best effort. In my case, she exceeded my expectations. When my case started, I was not truly hopeful. I finally met Julie at a status hearing in April 2017, so for over a year and a half Julie worked with me on my case via phone and email. Through Julie's patience and persistence with certain matters, my divorce took a whole 360. One thing I will always tell anyone who obtains a lawyer, ALWAYS give them all the facts and let them decide what they need. Some things we may not think matter, they are actually huge and can truly help you. Also if somethings can hurt you, your lawyer needs to know to be able to properly represent you. We all make mistakes, but as always it is how you handle them, what you get out of them, and how you pick yourself back up after them that also matters, not just your mistake. Julie truly cares about her clients. She listens to what you want. She is very organized and communicates fantastically. Everything that was sent to his attorney, or anyone else was always sent to me. It is very nice to be included and updated as everything is going on. Her fees are very appropriate for her service. Remember divorces are never cheap, but when you are spending that kind of money you want someone who will put your best foot forward, listen to your concerns and advise you appropriately according to the law. I will end this like I started this I cannot tell you how grateful I am to Julie.

anonymous
October 19, 2017

I recommend Julie Stephens with the highest praise as a divorce attorney. Mrs. Stephens was an exceptional allie in my year-long divorce proceedings. I can honestly say that due to her diligence and tenacity, my divorce was settled fairly, swiftly, and without any unnecessary drama. She did her part to make sure the divorce proceeded on schedule at every turn, and she regularly updated me with any shared communications with my ex-spouse's lawyer and about any details regarding the progress of my case. She CC'd me on every correspondence to my ex's attorney, and I knew everything that needed to happen next in the proceedings as it arose. She was organized with checklists for me from the very beginning about what needed to be taken care of and decided, and she pointed me in specific directions, which was MUCH needed due to my ignorance of the process! During such a confusing and emotional time, she made it very easy on me by providing clear directions, giving much-needed information about my legal questions, and offering immediate feedback when I needed it. She was very knowledgable and was clearly working in MY best interest! I rarely had to inquire about "where we were at" about anything. However, when I did, she promptly replied and answered me clearly. She did not waste my time or money at ANY point in my year-long divorce. She was worth every penny! She replied to my emails and concerns VERY promptly. Her emails were clear and concise regarding the variety of questions I had about any curiousity or confusion regarding how to proceed, what was legal, and my rights as her client. At no point did I feel alone, confused, or like no one was in my corner. With two small children involved as well, she was sensitive to my concerns about them and made sure they were kept in mind throughout the process. She was the much needed rock I needed during such a difficult and trying time in my life, and she made me feel like I was worth everything I was legally due- and more! Her organization, straight-forward and friendly demeanor, and knowledge of the process left me feeling safe and VERY well represented throughout the entire divorce process. I cannot thank or recommend her enough!

Jeana
October 15, 2021

I was well informed of all situations. Staff was very helpful and caring. Would definitely reccomend

Cordero
February 19, 2021

As a lawyer attorney Stephens knows everything she needs to know to secure the victory and even just as a human she knows how to listen and understand your problems, requests and issues like they were her own I’d definitely recommend Attorny Julie to any and everyone!

anonymous
February 1, 2021

Very satisfied with my experience. Felt better having Julie on my side, than I would if she were on the other side of the table. Her staff is upfront, honest and patient. Always looking out for my best interest and not anyone else's

Justin
January 10, 2021

Julie and her associates are A+ professionals. They help keep you at ease when going through what might be the most challenging time of your life (at least it was for me). It is amazing your thought process going into divorce compares to coming out. Being male, I went in thinking and already conceding that I would only see my children every other weekend. That of course is the result of cultural stigma. I had previously set my goal to increase that 2 out of every 3 weekends. That was all before I spoke with Julie. Julie immediately adjusted those expectations to something way more favorable to me and my future relationship with my girls. This is a LIFE LONG decision you are making when you sign a marital settlement agreement. If Julie had not helped me undertstand my options and reset my expectations, things could have been way different, and once you sign that agreement - there is NOTHING you can do about it. Julie helped me understand that - as long as you are a good father - you are just as much entitled to equal parenting time as mom. I think Julie having a Masters in Psychology helps with all of this, especially when it comes to reasoning with opposing party to consider a more equitable custody agreement. It is a HUGE asset to have someone on your side who has knowledge and experience in human behavior! Julie was also incredibly responsive and attentive to me. Not once did I feel like she was ever "dragging her feet" or putting me to the side. She was the absolute opposite. In fact, opposing party was always dragging their feet and Julie was incredibly persistent and vigilant with staying on opposing party to continue progress in our case. Julie was also always after my best financial interest. If there was anything I was ever requesting that was going to rack up time on her end (and thus $$ out of my pocket), she was always very transparent about that. She was always advising me on things that were of value of the time needed to commit and where I was likely focusing on dead ends. She was very up front and clear - even if she knew it was something I wasn't going to enjoy hearing. But she always listened to everythihg I would say and not just discredit or invalidate me. She wanted to full understand my position before responding and giving advise. Whatever the equivalent for "bedside manner" in the world of lawyers is - her's was impeccable. You want a lawyer who is great with negotiation. You are never going to get everything you want out of a divroce. You need a lawyer who can find a good balance of what is most important to you and what is of good value (eg. attainable). You want someone who can then go in and exercise good negotiation skills with opposing party to attain the best outcome possible. That is Julie Stephens.

anonymous
December 2, 2020

My experience with Julie exceeded my expectations. She guided me through a divorce that was previously not moving forward for quite some time. She is extremely knowledgeable, professional, responds in a timely manner and was overall fantastic to work with. Her staff was also very helpful, professional, and pleasant. I would recommend Stephens Law Firm to anyone!

Lisa
August 17, 2020

Julie was the second attorney I went to after the first spent months doing nothing to further my case or work to resolve the immediate issues. When I hired Julie, things immediately began moving forward. She worked dilligently and reliably for me, protecting my interest and helping me achieve a good outcome. Highly recommended!

anonymous
June 8, 2020

Julie Stephens, without any doubt, provided phenomenal service for me. She walked me through the process and answered any questions I had. I enjoyed working with Nicole as well. Both of them did a great job and I highly recommend the firm.

Scott
May 28, 2020

Everytime I speak with Julie (or Nicole) I come away more impressed and happy that I found them. It is a divorce. It is YOUR divorce and that makes it challenging for you. Julie is great at figuring out what your needs are for your divorce and also what your wants are. You aren’t ever going to get 100% of what you want, the other person might want the same thing. She works non stop to ensure you get your needs and maximizes as much as possible the wants. She will also be honest with you. If a want is not worth the money to make something happen, she will tell you. It is still your decision, but she will let you know the cost benefit of the matter. I appreciate the honesty in her. She is out to help you, not solely enriching herself. In short she is a great advocate for anyone that is going through a divorce. She is truly amazing. Thank you Julie and Nicole

Michelle
October 28, 2017

First thing, I cannot tell you enough how grateful I am to Julie. My divorce started a couple of years ago..Oct. 2015. I received my letter stating my husband filed for a divorce. My situation was very unique and complicated. I reached out to Julie and she along with her staff were nothing but wonderful. They passed no judgement on myself. Julie agreed to take on my divorce even though I could at the time only reach out to her via phone or email. She dealt a lot with my mom and as I stated her staff is fantastic. Julie is upfront and gives you all of your options, whether you like what she says or not. She wants you to know if you pursue this, this could happen. You will never enter into any decision without knowing possible outcomes. She really takes your case and puts forth more than her best effort. In my case, she exceeded my expectations. When my case started, I was not truly hopeful. I finally met Julie at a status hearing in April 2017, so for over a year and a half Julie worked with me on my case via phone and email. Through Julie's patience and persistence with certain matters, my divorce took a whole 360. One thing I will always tell anyone who obtains a lawyer, ALWAYS give them all the facts and let them decide what they need. Some things we may not think matter, they are actually huge and can truly help you. Also if somethings can hurt you, your lawyer needs to know to be able to properly represent you. We all make mistakes, but as always it is how you handle them, what you get out of them, and how you pick yourself back up after them that also matters, not just your mistake. Julie truly cares about her clients. She listens to what you want. She is very organized and communicates fantastically. Everything that was sent to his attorney, or anyone else was always sent to me. It is very nice to be included and updated as everything is going on. Her fees are very appropriate for her service. Remember divorces are never cheap, but when you are spending that kind of money you want someone who will put your best foot forward, listen to your concerns and advise you appropriately according to the law. I will end this like I started this I cannot tell you how grateful I am to Julie.

anonymous
October 19, 2017

I recommend Julie Stephens with the highest praise as a divorce attorney. Mrs. Stephens was an exceptional allie in my year-long divorce proceedings. I can honestly say that due to her diligence and tenacity, my divorce was settled fairly, swiftly, and without any unnecessary drama. She did her part to make sure the divorce proceeded on schedule at every turn, and she regularly updated me with any shared communications with my ex-spouse's lawyer and about any details regarding the progress of my case. She CC'd me on every correspondence to my ex's attorney, and I knew everything that needed to happen next in the proceedings as it arose. She was organized with checklists for me from the very beginning about what needed to be taken care of and decided, and she pointed me in specific directions, which was MUCH needed due to my ignorance of the process! During such a confusing and emotional time, she made it very easy on me by providing clear directions, giving much-needed information about my legal questions, and offering immediate feedback when I needed it. She was very knowledgable and was clearly working in MY best interest! I rarely had to inquire about "where we were at" about anything. However, when I did, she promptly replied and answered me clearly. She did not waste my time or money at ANY point in my year-long divorce. She was worth every penny! She replied to my emails and concerns VERY promptly. Her emails were clear and concise regarding the variety of questions I had about any curiousity or confusion regarding how to proceed, what was legal, and my rights as her client. At no point did I feel alone, confused, or like no one was in my corner. With two small children involved as well, she was sensitive to my concerns about them and made sure they were kept in mind throughout the process. She was the much needed rock I needed during such a difficult and trying time in my life, and she made me feel like I was worth everything I was legally due- and more! Her organization, straight-forward and friendly demeanor, and knowledge of the process left me feeling safe and VERY well represented throughout the entire divorce process. I cannot thank or recommend her enough!

Jeana
October 15, 2021

I was well informed of all situations. Staff was very helpful and caring. Would definitely reccomend

Cordero
February 19, 2021

As a lawyer attorney Stephens knows everything she needs to know to secure the victory and even just as a human she knows how to listen and understand your problems, requests and issues like they were her own I’d definitely recommend Attorny Julie to any and everyone!

anonymous
February 1, 2021

Very satisfied with my experience. Felt better having Julie on my side, than I would if she were on the other side of the table. Her staff is upfront, honest and patient. Always looking out for my best interest and not anyone else's

Justin
January 10, 2021

Julie and her associates are A+ professionals. They help keep you at ease when going through what might be the most challenging time of your life (at least it was for me). It is amazing your thought process going into divorce compares to coming out. Being male, I went in thinking and already conceding that I would only see my children every other weekend. That of course is the result of cultural stigma. I had previously set my goal to increase that 2 out of every 3 weekends. That was all before I spoke with Julie. Julie immediately adjusted those expectations to something way more favorable to me and my future relationship with my girls. This is a LIFE LONG decision you are making when you sign a marital settlement agreement. If Julie had not helped me undertstand my options and reset my expectations, things could have been way different, and once you sign that agreement - there is NOTHING you can do about it. Julie helped me understand that - as long as you are a good father - you are just as much entitled to equal parenting time as mom. I think Julie having a Masters in Psychology helps with all of this, especially when it comes to reasoning with opposing party to consider a more equitable custody agreement. It is a HUGE asset to have someone on your side who has knowledge and experience in human behavior! Julie was also incredibly responsive and attentive to me. Not once did I feel like she was ever "dragging her feet" or putting me to the side. She was the absolute opposite. In fact, opposing party was always dragging their feet and Julie was incredibly persistent and vigilant with staying on opposing party to continue progress in our case. Julie was also always after my best financial interest. If there was anything I was ever requesting that was going to rack up time on her end (and thus $$ out of my pocket), she was always very transparent about that. She was always advising me on things that were of value of the time needed to commit and where I was likely focusing on dead ends. She was very up front and clear - even if she knew it was something I wasn't going to enjoy hearing. But she always listened to everythihg I would say and not just discredit or invalidate me. She wanted to full understand my position before responding and giving advise. Whatever the equivalent for "bedside manner" in the world of lawyers is - her's was impeccable. You want a lawyer who is great with negotiation. You are never going to get everything you want out of a divroce. You need a lawyer who can find a good balance of what is most important to you and what is of good value (eg. attainable). You want someone who can then go in and exercise good negotiation skills with opposing party to attain the best outcome possible. That is Julie Stephens.

anonymous
December 2, 2020

My experience with Julie exceeded my expectations. She guided me through a divorce that was previously not moving forward for quite some time. She is extremely knowledgeable, professional, responds in a timely manner and was overall fantastic to work with. Her staff was also very helpful, professional, and pleasant. I would recommend Stephens Law Firm to anyone!

Lisa
August 17, 2020

Julie was the second attorney I went to after the first spent months doing nothing to further my case or work to resolve the immediate issues. When I hired Julie, things immediately began moving forward. She worked dilligently and reliably for me, protecting my interest and helping me achieve a good outcome. Highly recommended!

anonymous
June 8, 2020

Julie Stephens, without any doubt, provided phenomenal service for me. She walked me through the process and answered any questions I had. I enjoyed working with Nicole as well. Both of them did a great job and I highly recommend the firm.

Scott
May 28, 2020

Everytime I speak with Julie (or Nicole) I come away more impressed and happy that I found them. It is a divorce. It is YOUR divorce and that makes it challenging for you. Julie is great at figuring out what your needs are for your divorce and also what your wants are. You aren’t ever going to get 100% of what you want, the other person might want the same thing. She works non stop to ensure you get your needs and maximizes as much as possible the wants. She will also be honest with you. If a want is not worth the money to make something happen, she will tell you. It is still your decision, but she will let you know the cost benefit of the matter. I appreciate the honesty in her. She is out to help you, not solely enriching herself. In short she is a great advocate for anyone that is going through a divorce. She is truly amazing. Thank you Julie and Nicole