Colin M. Stephens

Colin M. Stephens is a criminal defense attorney and partner at Stephens Brooke, P.C. in Missoula, Montana. Colin focuses on criminal defense, with substantial work in federal court and before the Montana Supreme Court. The practice serves people accused of crimes and clients pursuing appeals or post-conviction relief and includes trial defense, federal criminal matters, appellate advocacy, habeas work, and other serious criminal cases.

Colin graduated from Carroll College in 1998 after studying philosophy, completed graduate coursework in philosophy at the University of Montana, and later enrolled in the University of Montana School of Law in 2002 before graduating and entering criminal defense practice. His studies in philosophy and law helped develop the analytical and writing foundation used in constitutional, evidentiary, and appellate criminal issues.

Colin began practicing exclusively in criminal defense after law school and later built a practice concentrated in federal courts and the Montana Supreme Court. He has handled trials, appeals, habeas petitions, and other complex defense matters and has also served as pro bono counsel with the Montana Innocence Project. The work provides practical perspective on preparation, strategy, documentation, and the procedural choices that can shape criminal defense matters from start to finish.

Colin M. Stephens received the 2019 John Adams Award and has held leadership roles in the Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the State Bar criminal law section. He also serves in professional and court-appointed roles connected to criminal law and legal education, reinforcing a practice centered on defense advocacy. Colin’s practice reflects an organized approach to analysis and preparation, with attention to the practical issues that shape criminal defense representation and client decisions.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Stephens Brooke PC
• Member, State Bar of Montana
• Member, Alaska Bar Association
• Chairman of the Criminal Law Section, State Bar
• Past President, Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Board Member, Montana Innocence Project

Licensed State

• Montana
• Alaska

Awards & Badges