A Fierce Litigator Securing Outstanding Results For Clients Since 1995
Biography
For years, Stephen built a respected career defending hospitals, national trucking carriers, insurers, and businesses across Georgia in complex liability cases—from medical malpractice and transportation claims to premises and governmental liability. But today, Stephen has turned the page. Drawing on his deep experience and insider knowledge of defense strategy, he now proudly represents individuals and families who’ve suffered serious injuries due to negligence. Stephen lives in Adel, Georgia, and serves clients throughout South Georgia and beyond. His practice is rooted in compassion, strategy, and a commitment to helping people rebuild their lives after injury.
A native of Tifton, Stephen earned his undergraduate degree magna cum laude from Valdosta State University, where he was a student-athlete on the football team. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor from Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law. He is admitted to practice in all Georgia state and superior courts, the Georgia Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court of Georgia, and the United States District Courts for the Middle and Southern Districts of Georgia.
Stephen has been selected as a Rising Star, a recognition achieved by only 2.5% of attorneys statewide. He has long been AV Rated by Martindale Hubbard, the highest rating level for legal ability and ethics. Stephen has served as both President and Vice-President of the Tifton Judicial Circuit Bar Association. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling, running, tennis, and spending time with his wife and daughters.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an auto or trucking accident, harmed due to unsafe conditions on someone’s property, or suffered from medical negligence, Stephen is ready to help. Call today to schedule a consultation.
Practice Areas
- Personal Injury
- Premises Liability
- Trucking & Auto Negligence
- Medical Malpractice
- Nursing Home Negligence
Bar Admissions
- Georgia, 2008
- Superior Courts of the State of Georgia
- Supreme Court of Georgia
- Georgia Court of Appeals
- U.S. District Court Southern District of Georgia
- U.S. District Court Middle District of Georgia
Education
- Mercer University, Walter F. George School of Law, Macon, Georgia
- J.D.
- Valdosta State University, Valdosta, Georgia
- B.S.
- Honors: magna cum laude
- Honors: Dean's List
- Major: Political Science
Past Positions
- Hall Booth Smith, Partner, 2011 to 2025
- Young Thagard Hoffman, Associate, 2008 to 2011
Languages
- English
Current Employment Position
- Partner - Jody D. Peterman, LLC
Professional Associations
- Tifton Bar Association, Past President and Vice President
Honors
- AV Preeminent Rated - Martindale-Hubbell, 10+ years
- Rising Stars - SuperLawyers, 2023
Litigation
- 100%



