About Mr. Stephen Mark
Mr. Stephen Mark Stern combines a background in education and journalism with more than two decades in private practice. He earned a J.D. from Washburn University School of Law in 1998. Before that he completed a M.A. in Education at Northern Arizona University in 1992 and a B.S. in Journalism at the same university in 1985. Those earlier degrees inform both his approach to client communication and his interest in matters that affect students and borrowers.
Stern opened his own practice soon after law school. He has served as the managing lawyer at the Law Office of Stephen M. Stern, PC since 1998. In that role he has handled case work, overseen office operations and acted as the principal point of contact for clients. His long tenure running a solo firm means he has experience managing the practical challenges of small-practice litigation and client counseling.
In 2003 he spent time in an academic setting at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. That year he taught courses for California State University’s Cal Poly campus. The classroom stint tied back to his earlier graduate work in education and gave him an opportunity to return to teaching and curriculum development, if only briefly.
Stern is licensed to practice in both Arizona and California. He holds an AV*Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a peer-review rating that appears on his record. He is also recognized as a Student Loan Lawyer, a certification that aligns with his educational background and work representing individuals on loan-related matters.
His journalism degree shows up in how he handles cases. Clients and colleagues note he writes clear, concise pleadings and explains legal options in plain language. The education degree helps when he must sort through federal loan regulations and administrative records. Between courtroom practice, counseling and occasional teaching, he has put those skills to regular use.
As of 2026 he continues to practice from the Law Office of Stephen M. Stern, PC. He represents clients in matters related to student loans and provides legal services to individuals in Arizona and California, handling case work and client counseling through his firm.
