Rachel M. Self

PRO

Rachel M. Self

5.0
131 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 21 years

Immigration Lawyer at Boston, MA
Practice Areas: Immigration, Criminal Defense

6 Beacon Street, Suite 825, Boston, MA

Virtual Consultation Available

About Rachel

Biography

Located in downtown Boston, I specialize in criminal defense and immigration law.

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

Arraignment and bail hearings Post conviction relief Narcotics Violations Money Laundering Theft Sexual Assault Domestic Violence Assault & Battery Alien Smuggling Illegal re-entry after deportation Juvenile Criminal Defense Driving under the influence

50%
Immigration 50%

The firm specializes in all aspects of immigration law and dedicates itself to honest and communicative representation while providing you with all possible resolutions for your immigration problem.

50%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2022
...
+ 11

Licenses

Licensed in Massachusetts for 21 years

State: Massachusetts

Acquired: 2004

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Rachel M. Self, P.C.

6 Beacon Street, Suite 825, Boston, MA, 02108

attorneyself.com

Rachel M. Self's Reviews

Showing 11 - 15 of 30 reviews | Compassion

Posted by Majlinda | September 24, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

Top-Notch Immigration Lawyer

I found atty Rachel Self here on avvo.com.I was looking for a top-notch immigration lawyer.I was denied twice and I needed someone who was really strong to win my case.Since the first time i met Rachel,i could tell that she is very knowledgeable , she is very compassionate,and has your back every ste...p of the way ,.,,,and is a difficult one.Rachel was realistic,my case was difficult ,but not impossible.She worked so hard and the day of my interview she was there to support me ,defend me and make sure that i get the best of the situation.And i did.My case was approved ,i won ,she won for me.Rachel changed my life and the life of my family,I don't even know how to start being normal ,having rights,planning future,work,,,i am still numb.It is unbelievable,For all of you out there ,that are in the same situation ,i was till last week,no legal status,go to Rachel,tell the truth and breath.Leave it to her.She will do it all,she will call,she will work with you ,because she cares.I never seen any of my previous lawyers tearing for me,,,i saw tears on her eyes for ME.I bless her,she is a Godsend.She will change your life too!

Posted by Joao | March 23, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

One of the very tip top #1 BEST Lawyer I know

First of all, I have to say that Rachel is very amazing at what she does. I've been dealing with Rachel for years and with many different cases and not 1 time I felt anything would had went wrong. My final case was involved with immigration and I was facing possible deportation. With Rachel by my si...de, fighting for me with all the hard work and dedication she gives to her clients, she does not fail you. She cares for you like you're her family. She wants to help you! With that being said, I am no longer facing deportation and about a month from finalizing my case and process of my citizenship I AM NOW AN AMERICAN CITIZEN and that's with most thanks to Rachel and all of her support. Hire her and you will NOT regret it.

Posted by MohamedB | February 13, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

If you need a Smart, Caring, Empathetic, professional, more importantly dependable Lawyer; Attorney Self is the ONE.

Maybe you are reading this review because you are wondering if Attorney Self is the right choice for your case. YES without a doubt she is. Believe me, if there is a path for you, no matter how arduous or difficult to navigate the stumbling blocks, she will find a way and carefully guide you toward t...he best outcome possible. When I went to see Rachel in March 2014, I was in despair and hopeless as I almost had given up fighting for my immigration status. My asylum case was denied and referred to an immigration judge who also denied me. My appeals to the BIA and fifth circuit were denied as well. Then I was placed in deportation proceedings. After spending thousands of dollars with 3 other lawyers, the only thing I got was a voluntary departure. One day while watching CNN, a panelist briefly mentioned Rachel’s name as very smart and knowledgeable Boston lawyer about complicated immigration cases. I rewinded the TV, took her name, googled it, but I didn't do anything about two weeks. Then I decided to call and try my luck for one last time. Best Decision Ever. The same day she called me back and I asked to meet with her as my case could not be explained over the phone. When I went to meet with Rachel, I was surprised how personable and down to earth she was despite being a very reputable and obviously a great lawyer. Right way my gut told me she might be the one and here I am today with a green card. Rachel was very honest yet empathetic. She told me there was still a chance, but a small one and it would take time and it would be difficult. However, Rachel said to me, "if I you are willing to try, I will be on your side, fighting for you till the end". God Knows she did as my GREEN CARD Just got approved. Rachel treated me with respect and care. Whenever I sent her a text/email or call her, she promptly got back to me which is very important when you are desperate or anxious about immigration issues. Honestly words cannot express my gratitude toward Attorney Self and her team as I just admire them all. Do you still need convincing? Read below, this is me she was talking about on Facebook. Please check the whole posting on FB. I hired Rachel to be my immigration lawyer, in the end she became my lawyer and therapist at the same time and I can say, I also found a friend for ever. Rachel M. Self, P.C. Page Liked · February 8 · Last night I got this text from one of the sweetest clients I have ever had. The battle has been long. Many, many years. There has been heartbreak and tears and stress and anxiety. But through it all he never lost hope. I first met him in 2014. He came to my office and he had already been in the immigration process for a long time. We talked about his case and I came up with a game plan. It would be long. It would be hard. There could be no guarantees. But if he wanted to try to fight his case, I would help him. We would do it together. He was always patient, humble and kind. Whenever he came to the office his smile lit up his face and the entire room. I straight up adore him and his amazing family. Last night he finally learned his Lawful Permanent Resident card is on the way. We won! I am so thrilled for them.#immigration #nobannowall #istandwithmigrants

Posted by Tilma | April 05, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

The lawyer you want by your side!

Rachel is absolutely amazing. She is a brilliant attorney and an unbelievable human being. There are no two cases the same when it comes to immigration law, her thorough knowledge of the law and the procedures, as well as her calming personality are two of the strongest assets one will need in a ...lawyer who represents your immigration case. Rachel was there for me and my husband during our panic attacks, our uncertainties and so much more. She handheld me and my employer while my case was submitted to Immigration Court. We couldn't have wished for a better lawyer. Even when we didn't believe in ourselves, we never lost our trust in Rachel and her capabilities. If you want a lawyer that would go the extra mile for you, hire Rachel. She will give you the piece of mind you didn't know you could have. My husband and I are eternally thankful to Rachel and there are no words we could show our gratitude.

Posted by Mike | January 28, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

The BEST Immigration Attorney

Rachel Self is a great immigration attorney in Boston. She was highly recommended by one of my friend and we are glad she took my immigration case. The previous attorney was no help and instead made my case worse. She is honest and thorough with my case and never gave up hope but instead ensured me t...hat thing will be alright. She was always prepared for upcoming court dates and made sure all the paperwork were complete. I highly recommend Rachel Self to anyone seeking immigration assistance. Thank you very much Rachel.

See All Client Reviews

Rachel M. Self's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Rachel
Melanie Shapiro headshot
Melanie Shapiro

Immigration lawyer | Jul 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Rachel is an exceptional lawyer and human being. Rachel is not only very smart but also compassionate. She does not hesitate to take charge of a situation. For instance, when Governor DeSantis sent immigrants on a plane to Martha's Vineyard, Rachel stepped up and took charge, organizing legal efforts. She is one of the few attorneys I'd trust referring a client to."

Jeffrey M. Miller headshot
Jeffrey Miller

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Self does and excellent job defending her clients in criminal defense cases. Over the years, i have seen Attorney Self achieve great results for her clients. I endorse her for criminal defense matters."

Daniel L. Kron headshot
Daniel Kron

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Simply said, Rachel is a great criminal defense lawyer."

Jennifer Wallace Marcus headshot
Jennifer Marcus

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Rachel is extremely knowledgeable, tenacious and incredibly hard working. You would be very lucky to have her in your corner."

Christopher B. Coughlin headshot
Christopher Coughlin

Immigration lawyer | Oct 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Rachel is an excellent lawyer and even better person. I endorse this lawyer."

Seena A. Pidani headshot
Seena Pidani

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 22

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Rachel M. Self is a remarkably effective trial attorney. Her contributions to the fields of Immigration and Criminal Defense are surpassed only by her commitment to her clients. I endorse this lawyer."

Claudia Lagos headshot
Claudia Lagos

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Stefanie Fisher headshot
Stefanie Fisher

Immigration lawyer | May 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

J. Denise Carter headshot
J. Denise Carter

Immigration lawyer | Apr 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer.very well respected advocate in the legal community"

Paul Christopher Hannaford headshot
Paul Hannaford

Immigration lawyer | Apr 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have listened to Attorney Self speak at various events and she is an extremely knowledgeable and well versed attorney. I strongly endorse her."

Courtney C. Linnehan headshot
Courtney Linnehan

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Randall Drew headshot
Randall Drew

Immigration lawyer | Nov 19

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Rachel and I have worked together on immigration matters in the past involving issues in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She knows how to work under pressure and still interact with clients, judges and other lawyers with professionalism and care. I endorse this lawyer."

Michael L. Tumposky headshot
Michael Tumposky

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

William Roa headshot
William Roa

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Haven headshot
Michael Haven

Unknown lawyer | May 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

R. Scott Oswald headshot
R. Scott Oswald

Immigration lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Rachel Self co-counseled with me on many matters. Her responsiveness, creativity, and work product is of the highest caliber. Rachel is truly an exceptional lawyer."

Leonard Eugene Milligan III headshot
Leonard Milligan

Immigration lawyer | Feb 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work."

Michael J. Bace headshot
Michael Bace

Immigration lawyer | Feb 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work."

Keith Durden headshot
Keith Durden

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work."

Vikas S. Dhar headshot
Vikas Dhar

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work."

View All Endorsements
Holly B. Smith headshot
Holly Smith

Child support lawyer

Christopher B. Coughlin headshot
Christopher Coughlin

Criminal defense lawyer

Seena A. Pidani headshot
Seena Pidani

Litigation lawyer

Michael Haven headshot
Michael Haven

Divorce and separation lawyer

Michael L. Tumposky headshot
Michael Tumposky

Criminal defense lawyer

R. Scott Oswald headshot
R. Scott Oswald

Immigration lawyer

Michael J. Bace headshot
Michael Bace

Contracts and agreements lawyer

Leonard Eugene Milligan III headshot
Leonard Milligan

Criminal defense lawyer

Keith Durden headshot
Keith Durden

Criminal defense lawyer

Steven Kim headshot
Steven Kim

Criminal defense lawyer

Dmitry Lev headshot
Dmitry Lev

Criminal defense lawyer

William Roa headshot
William Roa

Criminal defense lawyer

Myong J. Joun headshot
Myong Joun

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2025

Best Lawyer in Immigration Law, Best Attorneys in America

2025

Super Lawyer in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Best Lawyer in Immigration Law, Best Lawyers in America

2024

Super Lawyer in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Honorable Mention Bostonian of the Year, Boston Globe

2022

Super Lawyer in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

SuperLawyer in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2017

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2017

Rising Star in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2017

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2016

Rising Star in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2016

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2016

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2015

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2015

Rising Star in Immigration Law, SuperLawyers

2015

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2014

Top 40 under 40, National Trial Lawyers Association

2014

Rising Star in Immigration Law, Massachusetts Super Lawyers

2014

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2013

Top 40 under 40, National Trial Lawyers Association

2013

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2013

Rising Star in Immigration Law, Massachusetts Super Lawyers

2012

Rising Star in Immigration Law, Massachusetts Super Lawyers

2012

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

Top 40 under 40, National Trial Lawyers Association

2011

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2011

Rising Star in Immigration Law, Massachusetts Super Lawyers

2010

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2010

Rising Star in Immigration Law, Massachusetts Super Lawyers

2009

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2009

Rising Star in Immigration Law, Massachusetts Super Lawyers

Work Experience

2005 - Present

Owner, Rachel M. Self, P.C.

Associations

2006 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

2005 - Present

American Immigration Lawyers Association

2005 - Present

Association of Trial Lawyers of America

2005 - Present

Massachusetts Bar Association

2005 - Present

American Bar Association

Sample of Legal Cases

Motion for New Trial for KL

Victory for KL

Commonwealth v HO

Victory for HO

Commonwealth v. EG

Victory for Mr. G.

Commonwealth v. MO

Victory for Mr. O.

Commonwealth v. HM

Victory for Mr. M.

Commonwealth v. DB

Case Dismissed

Commonwealth v. JM

Not Guilty

Commonwealth v. ML

Case dismissed

Commonwealth v. JC

Not Guilty All Counts

Commonwealth v. RV

Not Guilty

Commonwealth v. Gina Kindell

New Trial Ordered

Commonwealth v. MP

Not Guilty

DHS v. Lemus

Victory for Mr. Lemus

Commonwealth v. Elliot Rivera

Victory for Mr. Rivera, Motion Granted.

Commonwealth v. Jorge Grullon

Not Guilty

DHS v. Hernandez

Victory for Ms. Hernandez

Souad Belcaid v. Michael Mukasey, et al.

Victory for Ms. Belcaid

See More Legal Cases

Education

N/A

Suffolk University Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

N/A

Bentley College

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2020

Immigration Basics Plus

Immigration Court Practice

2018

Crimmingration 101 Crimmigration 101

2016

Crimmigration 101 Crimmigration Breaking News

2016

Crimmigration 101 AILA's Crimmigration

2015

What Every Practitioner Needs to Know Categorical Approach to Crimes in Immigration Proceedings

2015

Immigration Basics Plus Immigration Court Practice

2014

How to get Citizenship without Getting Deported Pitfalls for the Unwary

2014

Crimmigration 101 Crimmigration

2013

Zealous Advocacy in the District Courts

How to Do A Closing Argument

2013

Immigration Basics Plus Immigration Court Practice

2013

Immigration 101

Introduction to the Law

2012

Immigration Basics

Removal Proceedings

2011

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Immigration Basics

2011

Judicial Conference

Immigration Consequences of Criminal Conduct

2011

AILA New England Immigration Law Conference

Advanced Immigration Litigation Practice

2011

AILA New England Chapter

From Cuffs to Court - What Happens when ICE Detains Your Client? - Presenter

2010

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Immigration Basics

2010

AILA New England Immigration Law Conference

Advanced Issues in Litigation

Languages

Spanish

English

Activity

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