Stephanie was born in Cambridge, Nebraska, and raised in Deer Lodge, Montana, where she graduated from high school in 1999. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Whitworth University in 2003 and went on to receive her Juris Doctor from Gonzaga University School of Law in 2008.

While at Gonzaga, Stephanie gained extensive hands-on experience, interning with the Federal Public Defender’s Office for Eastern Washington, clerking for Judge Harold Clarke, and working on the Colville Reservation drafting estate plans for Native American clients. Following law school, she joined the Colorado Public Defender’s Office, where she practiced in Trinidad, Greeley, and Fort Collins. During her tenure as a Public Defender, Stephanie tried more than forty cases, developing significant courtroom experience.

In 2019, Stephanie transitioned to serving as a Guardian ad Litem, representing juvenile delinquents and children involved in the foster care system. She joined Sutherland & Connor in 2021, a probate law firm, where her practice focused on probate litigation, including will contests and representing parties in protective proceedings. In 2026, Stephanie joined the team at Schwartz, McMinimee & Andrew.

Stephanie is an active member of the Trust and Estate and Elder Law Sections of the Colorado Bar Association and serves as Member at Large on the Elder Law Executive Council for the 2024–2026 term.

Outside the courtroom, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, embracing the outdoors, biking, and exploring great local restaurants.