Deputy District Attorney Stephanie Wills was honored for her extensive career during a ceremony held on Thursday at the County Courthouse in Media, Pennsylvania. The courtroom was filled to capacity with colleagues and friends, reflecting her impactful presence in the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office over the past three decades.
Outgoing District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and incoming District Attorney Tanner Rouse paid tribute to Wills, highlighting her exceptional work as a prosecutor and her remarkable character. Stollsteimer, who recently won a seat on the Court of Common Pleas, expressed his disbelief at her retirement, humorously stating that her departure prompted him to retire as well.
Legacy of Service
Stollsteimer described Wills as a “legendary attorney” whose contributions to the legal community are irreplaceable. He emphasized the profound impact she had on him personally and professionally during their six years of collaboration. Wills served as a mentor and a guiding force, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As I tried to find my footing as a newly minted supervisor…Stephanie’s guidance and work ethic were my North Star,” Rouse said. “Without her counsel, I would very simply have been lost.”
Both Stollsteimer and Rouse presented Wills with a plaque commemorating her career in public service. Wills expressed gratitude to her colleagues for their support throughout her time in office. “I have loved being a DA,” she stated. “I knew from the very first minute that I sat at a counsel table as a certified legal intern that this was what I was meant to do.”
A Career Spanning Decades
Wills began her journey in the legal field as a college intern in 1994 and quickly ascended through the ranks. After joining the District Attorney’s Office full-time in 1998, she handled juvenile cases and summary appeals before moving to a trial team. By 2002, she had become a team leader, later serving as deputy of the pre-trial unit and then the trial unit.
Throughout her career, Wills has not shied away from high-profile cases, including her first homicide case in 2000. She described these cases as significant, stating, “Those were the cases where there’s more evidence… it was obvious to everyone involved in the case that this was for everything.” Her commitment to justice has remained unwavering, despite facing challenges such as the inability to prosecute a case involving the death of seven-month-old Hamza Ali.
Wills reflected on the joy of securing justice for families and victims, noting the appreciation expressed by those affected by her work. “We would still get letters and notes from families even months after,” she remarked.
As she transitions into retirement, Wills plans to spend more time with her family. Although she has no immediate plans to return to legal practice, she intends to keep her bar license active. “It’s been a long time and I’m ready,” she said, indicating a future open to possibilities in law or other pursuits.
Wills leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication, and mentorship. Her departure marks a significant moment for the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, which will undoubtedly feel her absence in the years to come.
