This was my first arrest and I was freaking out. Mr. Rael and his staff were great. I was able to call and ask any questions or if I was just having anxiety; very patient. They took care of my case and me. I would recommend everyone hire him.
Mr. Rael and his paralegal Marlene helped me immensely with an issue that I felt would make or break my entire future. These two individuals worked as a team to educate me, keep me informed, and advocate for me throughout my entire experience with the legal system in Humboldt County. Most importantly, they treated me with the utmost respect throughout the entire ordeal. My case involved a petition for factual innocence, which unfortunately is a process that is largely unheard of in this area. Through my initial consultation with Mr. Rael, I realized that he had knowledge of this subject area. As we proceeded with my case, Greg utilized every legal resource in existence to ensure thorough and ethical advocacy in my case. Greg and Marlene truly went the extra mile to do all of the extensive research needed for my case. They treated me fairly, communicating in an efficient and honest manner throughout all of our interactions. I feel that my decision to seek their counsel was the most influential decision in my life, and I am thrilled to say that the outcome was favorable.
Practice devoted to criminal defense and juvenile law since 1976 as well as related regulatory, governmental and civil rights matters.
I have practiced law in Eureka, Humboldt County, California since being admitted to the Bar in 1976. I received my Bachelor's degree in sociology from Stanford University in 1972. After spending a year working for the U.S. Department of Labor I returned to Stanford to study law and received my doctor of jurisprudence degree from Stanford Law School in 1976. My practice focuses on all aspects of criminal and juvenile law as well as related regulatory, governmental and civil rights matters. I also accept cases in Del Norte and Trinity Counties.  I have served as a consultant to the California Continuing Education of the Bar and was a contributing author to their seminal texts on juvenile and criminal law procedure and practice.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great criminal defense lawyer
This was my first arrest and I was freaking out. Mr. Rael and his staff were great. I was able to call and ask any questions or if I was just having anxiety; very patient. They took care of my case and me. I would recommend everyone hire him.
Posted by anonymous | February 1, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended
Mr. Rael and his paralegal Marlene helped me immensely with an issue that I felt would make or break my entire future. These two individuals worked as a team to educate me, keep me informed, and advocate for me throughout my entire experience with the legal system in Humboldt County. Most importantly, they treated me with the utmost respect throughout the entire ordeal. My case involved a petition for factual innocence, which unfortunately is a process that is largely unheard of in this area. Through my initial consultation with Mr. Rael, I realized that he had knowledge of this subject area. As we proceeded with my case, Greg utilized every legal resource in existence to ensure thorough and ethical advocacy in my case. Greg and Marlene truly went the extra mile to do all of the extensive research needed for my case. They treated me fairly, communicating in an efficient and honest manner throughout all of our interactions. I feel that my decision to seek their counsel was the most influential decision in my life, and I am thrilled to say that the outcome was favorable.
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Response from Gregory RaelFebruary 2, 2016
Thank you so much for your kind words. It is always my priority to work hard for the best results for each and every client. Thank you!
Posted by anonymous | December 2, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
Mr. Gregory Rael and his paralegal Marlene, have been kind, helpful and very knowledgeable. They have both gone above and beyond in helping me to understand what is going on with my case in this very scary and uncertain time. I feel like they have guided and helped me as they would their very OWN family, they have been straight forward, honest and fair with me, they have treated me with great care and respect, and taken the time to be through and explain anything I did not understand without making me feel less than, or foolish. I feel very comfortable with them and also in very capable hands. I cannot recommend this criminal defense team more, they are at the top of their game and the very best that Humboldt county has to offer. Iam extremely greatful for their support, and feel lucky to have found them.
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Response from Gregory RaelDecember 2, 2015
What wonderful words - thank you so much for this wonderful review.
Posted by Kerry | September 16, 2014
EXCELLENT CRIMINAL DEFENSE
I have known Mr. Rael for 37 years. I was represented by him 30 years ago and have worked professionally with him for many years, currently as an investigator. I have worked within the criminal justice system for years and know that Mr. Rael is highly respected throughout the legal community and considered one of the finest criminal defense attorneys in Humboldt County. Whether through representation, working together, or our friendship over many years, I know Mr. Rael to be extremely knowledgeable about the law and deeply committed to providing the best legal defense to his clients in the most cost effective way. He is extremely thorough and takes time to explain the court process, expectations, and limitations to his clients. Working with him is a pleasure. I admire his intellect, thoroughness, thoughtfulness, honesty and compassion. I have witnessed these traits for many years in both his professional and personal life. I never hesitate to highly recommend him to those in need of his services as I know Mr. Rael's competency and honesty to be authentic. Mr. Rael has a tremendous work ethic and expects the same from his staff. I cannot emphasize enough how Mr. Rael and his paralegal, Marlene, perform their duties to the highest standard while at the same time making their clients comfortable during an extremely difficult time in their lives. They make a terrific team and that reflects the professionalism that their clientele deserve. Opposing counsel's respect for Mr. Rael's fine mind and integrity more often than not result in a favorable disposition for his clients. Mr. Rael's extensive experience, knowledge, and professionalism equate to excellence in every way. Humboldt County citizens are fortunate to have access to such a fine attorney.
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Posted by Leslie | August 19, 2014
Very HIGHLY Recommended
My husband and I had the privilege of having Greg as my husband's attorney during an extremely tough time in our life, legally and personally. He was a God-send. Very caring, easy to talk to - just an all-around wonderful human being. Of course we hope we never need an attorney again, but we would not hesitate to go back to Greg if the need arises. If there were a higher rating than "Excellent" and five stars, he would deserve it.
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Posted by anonymous | August 19, 2014
An honest lawyer!
I hired Greg to represent me on a petty theft matter. He was able to walk me through it and at the end of my probation he filed the appropriate papers to get it dismissed/expunged. It may not have been the biggest case for him but he didn't treat me any less special. I would definitely recommend Greg to anyone who is in trouble.
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Posted by Cory | June 10, 2014
Highly Recommended!
I met with Greg about 2 years ago. It was the first time I ever had a problem. He was great! He explained everything to me, kept me apprised of everything going on and even helped me when I was off probation to get my matter dismissed. I highly recommend him to anyone!
Posted by anonymous | March 19, 2014
I would highly recommend Mr. Rael.
I would highly recommend Mr. Rael and his staff. They are very nice and professional. They made me feel very comfortable during a uncomfortable situation.
Posted by Beth | January 9, 2013
Top Criminal Attorney
Greg and staff were easy to work with and always there for me every step of the way. My first time having to hire a criminal lawyer and they made it easier.
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Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 27
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. In the more than 35 years that I have known Greg, he has always worked above and beyond expectations, striving and accomplishing amazing results for clients. He has also devoted much effort in volunteer actions on behalf of those needing appointed lawyers for criminal charges, setting the highest and most protective standards. I strongly encourage you to seek his representation for your case."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gregory Rael should have a 10.0 avvo rating. He has spent 38 years practicing law. Has contributed and helped author legal publications for attorneys who use them on a daily basis through continuing education of the bar books. He is an expert on criminal and juvenile law. For potential clients look no further. This will be your attorney, they don't get any better. Hire him! KUDOS"
Criminal defense Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked closely with him over the past fifteen years, and admire his work ethic, his comprehensive knowledge of criminal and juvenile law and, and a strong commitment to his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Mr. Rael for over 15 years and he is one of the best criminal defense attorneys and one of the brightest legal minds on the North Coast. I have worked with him on a couple of matters and his experience, hard work, and winning attitude always make me glad he is on my client's side. He ranks a solid ten out of ten in my book!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Beyond question, Greg Rael is one of the most highly regarded criminal defense lawyers in Northern California. His zealous representation of clients is consistently delivered in an ethical and highly professional manner. Based on reputation and years of experience he is a "10" lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I've known Greg and practiced with him on numerous cases over 30 years. He is one of the finest legal tacticians there is. The best endorsement I can give is to say that he would be the one representing me or my family members if there was ever a need."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 18
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Greg is an extremely knowledgeable and experienced practitioner but what distinguishes him from many other lawyers is his thoroughness and attention to detail. I would not hesitate to recommend him."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have worked with Mr. Rael on several cases and in each case his knowledge, experience and reputation have made a positive difference in the outcome of the case for his clients. Greg truly cares about his clients and excels at his profession."