Stephanie M. Burton
Associate
PRACTICE AREAS:
Stephanie is a distinguished legal professional whose journey in the field of law has been marked by a commitment to justice, a passion for advocacy, and a deep sense of community involvement. Her multijurisdictional practice reflects her commitment to serving clients and communities across state lines. She is licensed to practice law in Missouri and Kansas, as well as in multiple United States District Courts.
Graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law in 2010, Stephanie’s academic achievements were underscored by her dedication to pro bono work. She earned pro bono honors by completing an impressive 240 hours of service to the profession through her work with the Midwest Innocence Project and the Death Penalty Litigation Clinic. Her early dedication to these causes laid the foundation for her impactful legal career.
An accomplished criminal trial attorney, Stephanie brings extensive trial experience to Baty Otto Scheer’s civil litigation practice. Her courtroom prowess includes numerous jury trials and bench trials in both state and federal courts in high-stakes criminal cases. Her dedication to justice and commitment to ethical representation have earned her a reputation as a formidable advocate in the legal arena.
Stephanie’s impact extends beyond the courtroom. She has played a pivotal role in shaping policy and best practices for conviction integrity units, leading to the exoneration of wrongfully convicted individuals. Her expertise also extends to jury selection, where she serves as a consultant, providing valuable insights to fellow attorneys seeking a fair and impartial jury.
In addition to her legal pursuits, Stephanie serves as a Missouri State Public Defender panel attorney, assisting the Missouri State Public Defender’s office with overload and conflict cases. Her dedication to public service and indigent defense highlights her commitment to ensuring access to justice for all members of her community.
Beyond her legal career, Stephanie is a devoted single mother of four children and the proud grandmother of six grandchildren. Her commitment to her family reflects her nurturing spirit and strong sense of responsibility.
Stephanie’s involvement extends to her faith community, where she holds the title of licensed and ordained Elder. She is also a lead Sunday school teacher, imparting valuable lessons to children in grades 3 through 5 at the Sheffield Family Life Center. Her dedication to both her legal career and her community involvement underscores her multifaceted commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those around her.
AWARDS & SERVICE
- Political candidate, Jackson County Prosecutor
- Former Commissioner, Jackson County Combat Commission
- Board President, Base Academy of Music
ADMISSIONS
- Missouri
- Kansas
- U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri
- U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas
- U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska
- U.S. District Court for the Northern, Eastern and Western Districts of Oklahoma
- U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin
EDUCATION
- University of Missouri-Kansas City
- University of Central Missouri (M.S., Criminal Justice)
- University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law
ORGANIZATIONS
- The Missouri Bar
- Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
- Kansas Bar Association
- Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association
- Association for Women Lawyers of Greater Kansas City