Hurley, Stephen P.

Steve Hurley's more than 35 years of practice provides clients with the background necessary to litigate complex cases. Steve is highly regarded throughout the state for his expertise in criminal defense. His persuasive presentation in the courtroom and knowledge of the law make him an effective litigator for civil cases as well. Steve was nominated and elected by his peers to the American College of Trial lawyers. His reputation earns him many referrals from colleagues for both criminal and civil cases.

Steve practices before agencies, state and federal courts, and has successfully represented clients at all stages: from pre-suit or pre-charging negotiations, through appeals before the appellate and supreme courts.

Various bar associations frequently request Steve to lecture on evidence, trial advocacy and criminal defense topics. Since 1989 he has been an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin law School, a popular teacher on evidence and trial advocacy. In 1998 Steve was appointed by Governor Tommy Thompson as a member of the Criminal Penalties Study Committee, composed of judges, lawyers and corrections officials, which provided advice about implementation of Wisconsin's Truth in Sentencing Law and which rewrote the penalty structure for criminal offenses.

Steve was recently profiled by the Isthmus magazine in a cover story titled "Hurley for the Defense," available here. In addition, the American Bar Association Journal had a feature article on Steve's recent victory on behalf of a client. The article is available here.

The 2008 Wisconsin Super Lawyers® magazine featured Steve in its cover story.

On going to court
"I prepare. What you see in court is a show – not one line is unrehearsed. Liken it to a play written, produced and performed by one person for one show. You can’t do it without preparation."

On understanding
"You must listen well. Empathy follows as does understanding. In the end, they have to trust me and I have to respect that trust."