About Stephen Bruce Bley

Stephen Bruce Bley is a principal of his firm and one of San Francisco’s most respected divorce attorneys. With a career spanning more than five decades, he has become widely known for his ardent, aggressive representation and his ability to achieve strong results in high-stakes, high-conflict family law cases. Today, he practices alongside his daughter and law partner, Samantha Bley DeJean, continuing a family tradition of legal excellence.

Mr. Bley’s legal journey began in 1967 as a Deputy District Attorney for the City of San Francisco, where he honed his legendary courtroom skills by trying numerous complex criminal cases, including multi-defendant murder trials. He later built on this foundation by handling complex business and tort disputes, developing the skilled and theatrical trial style that has defined his reputation as a formidable courtroom advocate.

Practice Focus

Mr. Bley’s practice is now focused almost exclusively on high-asset, high-conflict divorce and family law matters. His more than 50 years of experience give him the ability to see cases from all angles, and his deep knowledge allows him to craft creative, strategic solutions to even the most complex family disputes.

Why Clients Trust Him

Colleagues and clients alike view Mr. Bley as a venerable opponent—a lawyer who is not only battle-tested but also strategic and client-focused. His ability to combine fierce courtroom advocacy with thoughtful settlement strategy ensures that clients facing life-changing disputes receive both strength and balance in their representation.

Recognition & Trust Markers

• Named Super Lawyer by San Francisco Magazine
• AV Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest peer rating for professional excellence
• Over 50 years of courtroom and trial experience in San Francisco and beyond

Education

• University of California, Berkeley – School of Law (Boalt Hall), Juris Doctor
• University of California, Berkeley, Bachelor of Arts

Bar Admissions

California

Practice Areas

• Family Law – High-Asset Divorce & High-Conflict Dissolutions

Fantastic Lawyers Editorial

“Stephen Bruce Bley has stood at the forefront of California family law for more than half a century. His unmatched courtroom experience, reputation as a tenacious advocate, and ability to deliver creative solutions in complex, high-asset divorce cases make him one of San Francisco’s most formidable and trusted divorce attorneys.”

Call Stephen Bruce Bley today: (415) 982-7311