Stephen A. Zarky Attorney -

Rooted In St. Louis And Ready For Trial

Local roots and education

From St. Louis County to Mizzou Law

Stephen grew up in St. Louis County and understands the neighborhoods that shape our region, from Webster Groves and Kirkwood to the Central West End and the City of St. Louis. After graduating from Webster Groves High School, he earned his law degree from the University of Missouri in 2001. Today his Clayton office serves clients across St. Louis County and nearby communities.

Legal career and experience

Learning the courtroom the right way

A lawyer speaks in court; a man sits at the defendant's table while a judge listens.

Early Career as a Public Defender

Stephen started where many trial lawyers build real courtroom skills: the public defender’s office. He interned in Columbia during law school, then served as an assistant public defender in Jefferson County from 2003 to 2005 and in St. Louis County from 2005 to 2008.

Specialized Focus on DWI

From 2008 to 2011, Stephen focused on DWI cases in private practice, developing a detailed approach to attacking stops, tests, and license actions. If you are comparing strategies for DWI defense, experience with both the criminal case and the administrative side is essential.

Founding His Own Practice

In 2011, Stephen opened The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky. Since 2017, he has worked from his Clayton location, continuing to handle a full range of charges and injury claims with the same personal attention that defined his early career.

Trial-ready representation

Prepared to stand in front of a jury

Many attorneys steer clients toward quick pleas. Stephen prepares every case for the possibility of trial, which can improve the leverage needed to secure dismissals or meaningful reductions. When you hire a criminal defense attorney who is ready to pick a jury in St. Louis County, the City of St. Louis, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, or Franklin County, prosecutors notice.

Man in suit reviews documents with person at a desk.
Wooden office with desk, green chairs, and built-in bookcase, with laptop and statue.

Personal approach and values

Direct access, clear expectations

You work directly with Stephen. Calls are returned quickly, costs are explained before work begins, and strategy is mapped to your goals. Whether you need help after an arrest or an injury on I-44, you will receive honest guidance and steady advocacy from start to finish. When you are ready to talk through options, reach out for a free consultation to understand timelines, likely outcomes, and next steps.

Please consider Stephen as your lawyer for any of your legal needs. He communicates with you actively. Thoroughly explains all processes concerning your case also guarantees and provides the best outcome concerning your situation. He’s truly amazing I’ve referred him to everyone I know and will continue to use him as representation for any legal matter that comes up in the future.

I give steven a 5.0+ more he is a goodblawyer. The only lawyer i have ever hired and will be the only one i will go to. He is understanding in alot of situations and from what i have seen from meeting up with him to pay him he will help people. Thanks steven.

Best Attorney around!! He will fight hard and smart for you. He helped my family member prove her innocence. I am so grateful to Stephen for everything he's done and would recommend him as one of the best choices for an attorney in St Louis.

Excellent lawyer handle my case with Care I would recommend him to anyone he helped me out I thank you so much Stephen A. Zarky

This guy is absolutely amazing very professional very trust worthy ,Go beyond to make sure he fight and do what is right for your case . He has some type of special gift that he knows what is right. I’m very grateful and Thankful For Him. Thank you 🙏🏽 God Bless☺️

Stephen was the first attorney I've ever needed. I'm not gonna lie, I had my doubts about him all the way until my hearing, but he managed to work out a great deal with the prosecutor. I never should have doubted him. I never write reviews, but I'll make the exception for Stephen. He's that good, and he's definitely worth the money.
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Testimonials and case highlights

Real stories from real clients

Professional recognition and community

Active in the Missouri legal community

Stephen is a member of statewide and local defense organizations and regularly appears in courts throughout the St. Louis area. Clients appreciate his plain-spoken style and consistent communication. His work reflects a commitment to protecting constitutional rights and helping neighbors through difficult moments.