Sieben Edmunds Miller is proud to announce that Stephanie Skoro has been named a Partner at the firm.
Since joining our team, Stephanie has built a strong reputation as a thoughtful, driven, and highly capable criminal defense attorney, handling complex felony matters, including serious criminal conduct and high-stakes jury trial cases, while also developing a meaningful practice in child protection (CHIPS) cases. Her promotion reflects not only her courtroom experience, but also her commitment to clients and the firm’s collaborative culture.
“Stephanie has shown from early on that she’s capable of handling complex, high-stakes cases,” said Kevin Sieben. “What’s been just as important is how she’s grown within our culture. She’s taken initiative, built confidence in her practice, and earned the trust of both her clients and our team. We’re excited to have her step into a partner role.”
“What stands out about Stephanie is how much she cares about her clients,” added Sam Edmunds. “She understands what they’re going through and takes the time to guide them through it. At the same time, she’s a strong advocate in the courtroom and isn’t afraid to take on challenging cases. She’s a great fit for this role and for the future of the firm.”
A Conversation with Stephanie Skoro
We spoke with Stephanie about her path to criminal defense, how her experience as a prosecutor shapes her work today, and what this next chapter as a partner at Sieben Edmunds Miller means to her.
Her Path to Criminal Defense
“I was a prosecutor, and I never really thought I would be a defense attorney.
I worked in Clay County, which was a really great experience, but then I moved to Meeker County, and that experience pushed me to think about my definition of justice and how I see our system. It really made me step back and evaluate whether that path was right for me long term. I was actually thinking about leaving the law altogether at that point.
Then I found this position, and it turned out to be one of the best things that’s happened to me. As a defense attorney, I get to be creative and compassionate, and I still get to advocate for justice. My personality just aligns better with this role.”
How Her Prosecutor Background Shapes Her Strategy
“I understand what prosecutors are thinking, the strategies they use, and how they build their cases because I was one of them. I worked with prosecutors every day, and I had to think the same way they do.
That really helps with planning a defense strategy and advising my clients, because I can anticipate how the other side is going to approach a case.
At the same time, I think about things differently now. I really consider the facts and look for arguments that others might not think of. It’s about thinking outside the box and not just accepting things at face value to make sure I’m doing the best for my clients.”
Focusing on High-Stakes Criminal Defense Cases
“My practice has really shifted toward more serious, high-stakes matters—the cases that are more complex and challenging.
I handled a homicide case this summer that resulted in a strong outcome, particularly considering the evidence involved, and that’s the type of work I’m drawn to. Those are the cases where the outcome matters most and where I feel I can make the biggest difference for my client.
I like being challenged. I like the pressure. I think that’s when I’m at my best—when there’s a lot at stake and I know how important the outcome is for someone’s life.”
A Client-Centered Approach to Defense
“I take ownership over my cases. They mean so much to me, and I’m very invested in my clients.
I want to make sure that ultimately my clients’ lives are going to be better because I was their attorney. It’s not just about what happens in the case—it’s about what happens to them after.
When they first come to me looking for representation, things often seem so dire. It’s scary, overwhelming, and they often feel helpless. A lot of times, this is one of the worst situations they’ve ever been in.
I want them to feel like I’m there to support them. I’m not judging them. I’m welcoming them as my client, and I will fight for them and for the best outcome.”
Helping Clients Navigate Difficult Situations
“One of the biggest things I talk to my clients about is patience.
These cases can take a very long time, and that’s really hard for people, especially when they’re already feeling nervous and overwhelmed.
But in the end, the results are typically not as bad as what they thought it would be in the beginning. Getting there just takes time.
I want them to feel comforted. I’ll handle the case, keep them up to date, keep them informed. I want to make sure they feel confident in my representation so they don’t feel like they have to carry that burden on their own.”
Her Work in CHIPS and Child Protection Cases
“While my practice has grown substantially, I still handle a lot of CHIPS cases—it’s probably about a third of my caseload.
It’s really incredible to see how hard parents work because they absolutely love their kids. They’re willing to do anything and everything to be able to continue parenting.
In these cases, people are in really difficult situations. The deck is stacked against them, and they often don’t have the right resources or don’t know how to navigate the system.
But seeing how far they come and how much they push themselves—it’s inspiring. I’ve met some truly incredible people through that work.”
The Culture at Sieben Edmunds Miller
“One thing that really made an impact on me is the trust that Sam and Kevin have in the attorneys here. They give you the confidence to handle big cases and make decisions.
They have always supported me, believed I could do the work, and were there to help talk through strategy and ideas.
I don’t think I would have been able to handle some of the cases I’ve taken on without that support and trust.”
What Partnership Means to Her
“I wasn’t expecting this promotion. I’m honored and proud that they asked me to be a partner.
To me, it means more responsibility in representing the firm and what we stand for.
It’s a chance to represent the culture here—the way we support each other, the way we work together, and the way we approach our clients.”
Looking Ahead
“I’m excited to keep taking on complex cases and advocating for my clients.
As a new partner, I’m also excited to continue supporting other attorneys—to be someone they can go to with questions or to work through ideas, just like I had when I started.
I’m also excited to keep seeing how resilient people can be. I think that’s one of the most powerful parts of this work.
This moment doesn’t have to define someone’s life. There’s something ahead of them, and there’s something to fight for.”
Why We’re Excited for What’s Next
Stephanie’s approach to criminal defense reflects both her experience and her perspective: a willingness to take on complex, high-stakes cases, paired with a commitment to supporting clients through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. As she steps into her role as partner, we are excited to watch her continue to play an important role in the firm’s growth while maintaining the client-first approach that defines Sieben Edmunds Miller.
Learn more about Stephanie Skoro and her criminal defense practice.
Contact Sieben Edmunds Miller to discuss your case.
