Rachael represents individuals and entities in criminal proceedings and appeals. A seasoned appellate lawyer who began her career working under the former appellate chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, she is well-versed in the art of written and oral advocacy. Rachael pairs keen analytical instincts with in-depth experience to protect and enforce her clients’ rights at all levels of the judiciary, from state courts to the United States Supreme Court. Whether seeking relief from an appellate judge, defending a critical win, or creating an airtight record at trial, she charts a clear route to victory when the stakes are highest.
Rachael regularly drafts briefs and argues before the Ninth Circuit and the California Courts of Appeal. She has also drafted petitions for and oppositions to petitions for writ of certiorari in the Supreme Court. At the trial level, Rachael engages in pre-trial advocacy efforts, including pre-indictment investigations and negotiations with the government. She has also served as the lead law and motions attorney in numerous federal criminal jury trials, contributing her expertise to help clients maximize their chances of success.
Rachael’s practice is defined by rigor, precision, and unflagging dedication. She uses every tool in her arsenal to cultivate a command of the record and the applicable case law—from determining appropriate standards of review to sifting through thousands of pages with a fine-tooth comb. When faced with trial proceedings that contain a mass of competing facts, she excels at extracting crisp, well-formulated legal questions. Her briefs build credibility by effectively framing the issues and presenting clear arguments that persuade judges at all levels of the judiciary.
Prior to joining Cohen Williams, Rachael was an associate at a California-based litigation boutique, where she handled criminal appeals and civil business litigation.
Rachael is a member of the Ninth Circuit indigent defense panel. She also sits on the board of Rainbow Services Ltd., a nonprofit organization that provides shelter and support to people impacted by domestic violence.