Practice areas: Workers' Compensation
Licensed in Pennsylvania since: 2000
Education: University of Pittsburgh School of Law
Stern & Cohen
2001 Market StSuite 2600
Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: 215-999-1443 Email: David Stern Visit website
David F. Stern is a founding partner at Stern & Cohen, P.C., a leading workers’ compensation law firm based in Philadelphia. For over two decades, Dave has focused exclusively on representing injured workers. He advocates for clients across the region, including Philadelphia, Montgomery, Chester, Delaware, and Bucks counties.
Since becoming an attorney in 2000, Dave has helped thousands of clients secure the compensation they deserve after suffering life-changing work injuries. His approach is aggressive, compassionate, and always client-centered. He understands the emotional and financial stress that comes with being out of work — and he fights to make sure no one goes through the process alone.
Recognized for Excellence
Dave’s track record has earned him consistent recognition from both peers and the legal industry. His honors include:
Super Lawyers (2012–2025)
Best Lawyers in America, listed for 10+ consecutive years
Top 100 Lawyers in both Philadelphia and Pennsylvania
“Best of the Bar” by Philadelphia Business Journal
Named among the Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers in Pennsylvania by The National Trial Lawyers
Education and Background
Dave’s academic background laid the foundation for his career as a top-tier trial lawyer. He brings both knowledge and real-world experience to every case.
University of Pittsburgh School of Law, J.D., 2000
University of Delaware, B.A., 1997
Leadership and Involvement
Beyond his work in the courtroom, Dave is deeply engaged in the legal community. He regularly speaks at continuing legal education (CLE) seminars and has authored several publications on workers’ compensation law.
His professional involvement includes:
Philadelphia Bar Association (Workers’ Compensation Section)
Pennsylvania Bar Association
Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association (former board member)
Pennsylvania Association for Justice (Board of Governors)
Workers’ Injury Law & Advocacy Group (WILG)
He’s also committed to giving back. Dave volunteers with the Philadelphia Volunteers for the Indigent Program and was named to the First Judicial District’s Pro Bono Honor Roll. Outside of work, he remains active with local charitable organizations throughout the Philadelphia area.
First Admitted: 2000, Pennsylvania
Professional Webpage: https://sterncohenlaw.com/david-stern/
Bar / Professional Activity
- Pennsylvania Association for Justice, Amicus Curiae Committee, Member
- Philadelphia Bar Association, Member
- Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association, Member
- Pennsylvania Association for Justice, Membership Committee, Member, Board of Governors
- Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association (PTLA), Future Leaders Section
- Pennsylvania Bar Association, Member
- Pennsylvania Association for Justice, Workers’ Compensation Section, Eastern District Chair, 2011
- Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association (PTLA), Board Member, 2013
- Pennsylvania Association for Justice, Member
Verdicts / Settlements (Case Results)
- $875,000 settlement for a union insulator who was electrocuted and fell from a ladder while working., 2025
- $185,000 settlement for a union worker who suffered a shoulder, hip, and back injury after a slip & fall accident while on the job., 2025
- $2,250,000 settlement for a driver who suffered a catastrophic accident while on the job., 2025
Pro bono / Community Service
- Public Justice
- Workers Injury Law Advocacy Group (WILG)
- Philadelphia Volunteers for the Indigent Program (Philly VIP)
Honors
- Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers in Pennsylvania by The National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- Top 100 Lawyers in both Pennsylvania and Philadelphia
- Philly VIP’s Volunteer of the Month, September 2011
- Best Lawyers, 2013-2016
- Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Stars
- First Judicial District of Pennsylvania Pro Bono Roll of Honor, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012 and 2013
- Super Lawyers, 2012-2016
Educational Background
- University of Delaware, Major: Finance, Honors: Division One athlete, 1997
Selections
- Super Lawyers: 2012 - 2026
- Rising Stars: 2007 - 2008, 2010 - 2011
Top Lists
Top 100: Philadelphia Super Lawyers: 2013 - 2016, 2018, 2023 - 2026- Top 100: 2026 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2025 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2024 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2023 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2018 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2016 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2015 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2014 Philadelphia Super Lawyers
- Top 100: 2013 Philadelphia Super Lawyers