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Aaron A Pelley

Litigation Attorney at Seattle, WA

4.9   45 reviews

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About Aaron

Learn Aaron’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Litigation
    50%
    Litigation in the areas of Intellectual Property, Partnership, Contracts and Employment.

    17 years

  2. Administrative law
    30%
    Strategic defense and planning for the marijuana industry. Successfully negotiated and defended multiple WSLCB revocations.

    17 years, 100 cases

  3. Cannabis Law
    20%
    Strategic defense and planning for the marijuana industry. Successfully guided multiple companies, large and small, through the complexities and shifting landscape that makes up the cannabis industry.

    17 years

A founding member of the Cannabis Defense Coalition Legal Committee and a lifetime member of the NORML Legal Committee.  Aaron has been a tireless advocate in the War on Drugs and the legalization movement. In addition to representing cannabis clients and their business strategies, Aaron has also earned a reputation for effectively handling high profile litigation, defending both individual and corporate clients. Aaron’s representative cases convey his capacity to handle a diversity of complex and serious legal matters. Aaron has been repeatedly named a "Rising Star" by Super Lawyers and Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers.  He has been invited to speak on Legal Education Seminars and Cannabis Conferences throughout the United States. 



 

Photos and videos

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Licensed for 16 years
State WA
Status Active
Acquired 2006
Updated 03/18/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  45 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by RODNEY | January 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best friend you're gonna find in this rough as hell WA State weed game...
I've known that Aaron Pelley is one of the best attorneys in Seattle for nearly 10 years. Even when he wasn't representing me, I was able to ride the coattails of his legal victories and success. Back when I first started in 2014 with my cannabis retail shop on First Ave S, I hit a zoning obstacle in the licensing process. We were stuck in the mud, and my lawyer at that time had no idea what to do. And then we got a call from the LCB telling us that attorney Aaron Pelley, working on matters unrelated to us, had won such a compelling victory against the State of WA that it was forcing the LCB to re-work how they were measuring zoning from restricted entities. This was a groundbreaking and game-changing legal victory that not only threw a lifeline to hundreds of small businesses like mine, but it also truly facilitated and made permanent vastly easier cannabis access for customers and MMJ patients. So given that I already knew how good he was at his line of work, I was thrilled when he took on my case years later. I knew I was in the best hands that I could be in professionally. What I didn’t know then, but have sense come to understand, was how great of a human being that Aaron is. He has been one of the best friends that I could imagine these last few years when I have been at some of my roughest moments in life. I am beyond lucky to have Aaron Pelley in my life. The entire team at Cultiva has always done an amazing and outstanding job for me. Most of all Ken. I have worked with Ken in depth for two years now. Ken has helped me see my case in ways that I never expected to see it. And he has been patient with me as we navigated through some extremely choppy waters. Ken has been a remarkable source of wisdom and discretion, and his involvement with my life has brought significant improvements. I recommend Cultiva Law to anyone in need of litigation services.
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Posted by Emilio | February 17, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Worth Every Penny
Aaron saved my life, and helped me change. He gave me a second chance to learn from my mistake and not affect my future. Aaron is great and will fight for you. He is honest and upfront. I'm very thankful I was able to walk out with a slap on the wrist. You get what you pay for. He is worth what I paid. Highly recommend Aaron.
Posted by anonymous | January 6, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Straight shooter
Mr. Pelley made time to provide me with a free consultation several weeks ago about a matter of concern. His thoughts were candid, informed, to-the-point and highly useful. Much appreciated.
Posted by wayne | February 1, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended
I would recommend Aaron to all of friends. I ran into some legal issues, call around and research. Pelley Law has great ratings. Set up an appointment and thinking it will cost an arm and leg. Found out rate was very reasonable. Got to work right away. Aaron is a very knowledgeable lawyer, and follow up on case till close. Highly recommend.
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Posted by Mike | January 8, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Professional and Straight Shooter....
Arron Pelley is the Man!! He is very professional and is a straight shooter. He will give you a straight answer, without all of the BS.. I had a few different situations that i had to call him on. He was ready and willing to handle the situation and walked me through what i needed to do to handle it.
Posted by Carianne | November 30, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
STOP! LOOKING! You just found your lawyer.
Within the first 2 minutes of talking with Aaron I knew my husband and I found our attorney. Words can't express how thankful I am that we he was put into our path. We were up shi+ creek in a canoe full of holes. And somehow he got us out of it. I've heard of almost exact same situations where people I know we're recommended to take a plea from their attorney. Not once did those words come out of his mouth. He said, " I will stand in your corner and fight for you." If there is a way, Aaron has the will. As corny as that sounds, it's the truth. Thank you so much Aaron! Truly the best in the industry.
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Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Criminal Defense lawyer
I have nothing but great things to say about Aaron Pelley. He will stand by your side and guide you through the complexities of our legal system. He is trustworthy, honest, and professional. Thank you Aaron for all your hard work!
Posted by anonymous | August 28, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
S
Aaron put us at ease amidst extreme stress. He gave us practical advice and made us feel extremely safe and that he'd have our backs in the event things got ugly. He didn't even charge us for the half hour of extremely useful advice. We'll definitely hire him if the need arises.
Posted by anonymous | November 13, 2014
Best MMJ attorney in washington
As I was at work I received a call that the police were at my house conducting a raid on my mmj collective garden in my detached garage (mind you, this happened in the most strict, anti-marijuana county in washington). Upon my return to house, the police had proceeded to rip up my entire garden, minus a few seedlings that were about an inch tall, taking all my flowering and veg plants. At the time I was over my plant count limit. They proceeded to go into my house and confiscate my money, cannabis and guns. I called Aaron Pelley and hired him. He was able to get the search warrant for my house deemed illegal and all was able to get me all of my possessions back. On top of this, he was able to argue my case pre-trial and have the search warrant for my garage/garden deemed illegal as well, dismissing me from all charges. His work has helped my family more than words could ever say. He made good on every promise he made me, and spared me from a minimum of 18 months (gun enhancement) as well as the minimum 2 years they were trying to give me. He is with a doubt the best investment into my future I have ever made, without him, My family would have suffered while I sat in jail/prison for growing a few plants.
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Posted by Joe | August 5, 2014
Highest Recommendation
I would not hesitate to recommend Aaron to anyone who has a cannabis related problem (In fact, I did). I was thoroughly impressed with his professionalism. Joe
Posted by Drew | June 24, 2014
Popped for pot? Call Aaron.
Aaron Pelley is a splendid defense attorney. With how screwed up pot laws are in Washington state currently, Aaron is a very reassuring, informative and honest lawyer to work with. I was stuck dealing with a pot related DUI and was floating around the system for about 2 years. Aaron was there for me the entire time, he isn't one of those lawyers who tack on multiple fees for multiple reasons. 1 contract, 1 lump sum, that's it. I don't make very much money and Aaron was able to help me out greatly in figuring out a reasonable payment plan. I truly believed I was going to get screwed early on but we won.
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Posted by anonymous | June 23, 2014
WOW
Well lets just say I was knee deep in trouble from being too wild on New Years Eve. I supposedly did something very dumb and had no one to turn to for help. I was out of state and felt like I was never going to be able to get back to my home here in California. Luckily I was able to leave jail because of my clean record. Considering I had never had more than a speeding ticket, I felt so scared to be in the situation I was in. I got in contact with Aaron and he had my back since the first time I talked to him. This guy went above and beyond to get me out of the trouble that I was in. He made me feel like everything was going to work out and it did. He got me out of trouble and did it for a very reasonable price. I owe Aaron and his team a lot. If you have never been in trouble or even if you have make sure to go to Aaron, he's got your back through the whole process and he's not only a lawyer, he is a man of his word.
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Posted by Jamie | April 6, 2014
I was innocent and Aaron stood by me 100 %. Two years dedication and my MMJ case was dismissed!
Aaron and his team were definitely a blessing in my life. They kept in contact with me and gave me hope to not give in to the pressure of facing half of a decade away from my children. Aaron is very knowledgeable and kept me informed of the laws regarding my case. I met with two other layers before Aaron and they basically told me to prepare for the worst. When I got to meet with Aaron he believed in my innocence and began pointing out flaws in the case immediately. This man definitely knows how to do his job and I will recommend him to anyone who needs good representation and the results they deserve according to our rights. Thank you for everything Aaron Pelley!
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Posted by anonymous | January 14, 2014
Excellent criminal defense!!
Aaron is a great advocate for medical marijuana patients and was able to get my charges dismissed in federal court. I couldn't have asked for a better result and I chalk it up to Aaron's experience and professionalism. I highly recommend his services!
Posted by anonymous | January 7, 2014
Outstanding Lawyer who fights for YOU; A+ rating!
Aaron is an AMAZING attorney...I had an issue that needed court clarification relative to my 2nd amendment rights. Throughout our engagement, Aaron was able to not only keep sensitive medical records sealed, but affirm my superior and rightful position through the seemingly (at-times) ambiguous court process. His positive relationship with prosecutors enables him to work both seamlessly and efficiently. I feel like I had a true advocate on my side who was advising / working for me -- and most importantly -- working in my best interests; his results speak for themselves. If you need someone who will fight for you - trust Aaron. Chris (his paralegal) is a true pleasure to work with as well!!
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Posted by anonymous | February 20, 2013
An Attorney That Will Fight For You And Who Actually Cares!
I hired Aaron on a medical marijuana related issue after the first attorney that I had hired, I didn't feel like was looking out for my best interest. Aaron was the total opposite. He spent as much time as needed talking to me in his office to get a clear picture as to what had happened and I was able to tell that he was really looking out for me. On my subsequent visits to his office, I was always amazed at how much more time and care he took with my case. My first attorney on this case just wanted to settle and told me that he didn't feel it would be wise to fight it. Well my gut instinct told me he was wrong and Aaron helped me prove my case and in the end we got an out of court settlement in my favor that got me everything that I wanted. This is the first attorney I've ever hired where I actually feel did his job and got my moneys worth so I highly recommend him to anyone with a medical marijuana issue.
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Posted by Derek | April 16, 2011
Aaron is the MAN
Aaron is a very honest and competent attorney he goes above and beyond the call of duty. His knowledge of the law is excellent. His most valuable asset is his ability to call you back. When it comes to getting a hold of attorney's I have sat and waited, and waited, and waited. Not with Aaron it’s always a same day response or sooner. Thanks Aaron
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Posted by Chelsea | February 11, 2011
Seattle Best Attorney.
Aaron took a Speeding ticket and reduced it to a "inattentive driving". This charge is not reported to your insurance. I'd recommend his services to anyone in a similar situation!! What a nice guy. He goes above and beyond what any other lawyer would normally do.
Posted by Bill | February 2, 2011
Excellent skills & actually cares. Helped me to the Federal level.
Aaron is sharp, knows the law, how the system really works and will be candid and honest with you. He also actually cares about your psychological health when enduring intense stress and troubling aligations. He also knew his skill set well, and had no ego involved in helping me find the best representation at the Federal level. I continue to seek his opinion and counsel when needed, and now always have his contact information on my person.
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Posted by Jessika | February 2, 2011
Top notch Attorney
Aaron Pelley is a respectable, top notch attorney. I have been working with Aaron for 3 years on various legal matters - with each case Aaron has not only proven his expertise of the law, but also treats me and my cases with integrity and respect. Aaron always responds to assist me anytime I call/email in a timely manner. I feel confident with Aaron representing my best interest. Additionally, Aaron will take time free of charge to speak over matters, that most attorneys would charge for. Aaron Pelley is a fair, knowledgeable steward of the law. I greatly appreciate the professionalism Pelley Law exhibits on my behalf.  Aaron and team are fantastic to work with.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Cultiva Law PLLC
  • 2018 - Present
  • Managing Partner
  • 7 Point Law
  • 2016 - 2018
  • Owner
  • Pelley Law, PLLC
  • 2007 - 2016

Education

  • Willamette University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2005
  • Willamette University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2002

Associations

  • National Cannabis Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws
  • Legal Committee Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2006 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Western District of Washington
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2006 - Present
  • King County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2004 - 2009
  • American Bar Association
  • Advisory Panel
  • 2004 - 2009
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer
  • Thomson Reuters Super Lawyer
  • 2020
  • Top 30 Litigators in Cannabis
  • MG Magazine
  • 2019
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Top Cannabis Trial Attorneys
  • MG Magazine
  • 2019
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2017
  • Top Lawyer
  • Seattle Metropolitan Magazine
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014
  • Top Attorneys in Washington
  • Seattle Metropolitan Magazine
  • 2014
  • Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • 2011
  • Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • 2010
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Pro Bono Publico Service
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • 2009
  • Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • 2008
  • Certificate for Completion: International Crim. Law and Policy
  • South Western Law School
  • 2005
  • Willamette University Public Interest Law Fellowship Grantee
  • Willamette University College of Law
  • 2004
View all awards

Publications

  • Washington State Bar Association Litigation News
  • Up in Smoke? Marijuana Law
  • 2013
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • The Academy of Cannabis Science
  • Compliance & Cannabis Licensing
  • 2021
  • 2018 Willamette Law Review Symposium: US v. Oregon: Examining the Role of Federalism Under the Trump Administration
  • Marijuana Law & Federalism
  • 2018
  • MJBA Business Bootcamp
  • Intellectual Property Litigation
  • 2017
  • Benton Franklin County Bar Association
  • Case Law Update on Cannabis Law and Litigation
  • 2015
  • TruTV's Best Defense
  • Navid Haq Trial
  • 2008
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (35)
Given (60)
Endorse Aaron
Business Attorney | Jul 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Aaron is an excellent attorney. He pioneered the area of representation for legal marijuana operations and continues to provide superb support for individuals and business involved with this new industry. It is a area fraught with legal dangers and Aaron navigates it smoothly."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Pelley is an experienced and aggressive defense attorney. He is highly regarded and respected by his peers and clients. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 29
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Aaron is extremely intelligent and gets results. I routinely call him to consult on situations that are within his expertise, and refer clients to him without hesitation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr.Pelley is one of the most exemplary and extraordinary attorneys that I have encountered in 24 years of practice. Despite being a judge, magistrate, prosecutor, and private attorney for nearly two and a half decades, I continue to learn valuable information from his posts every day. I would highly recommend."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Aaron is a hard working, intelligent attorney who has a great track record in the criminal defense community. I would recommend him to anyone facing a criminal charge in Western Washington."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"In addition to being a skilled professional, Aaron is a truly compassionate attorney who is willing and able to step in and help a person in need of competent and knowledgeable representation. I most certainly endorse Aaron!"
Criminal defense Attorney | May 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Aaron is experienced, professional, and effective. I had the pleasure of working with him on a case with 14 co-defendants. I endorse him, I would refer him to anyone, and I would hire him if I ever needed representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Aaron is a meticulous, compassionate attorney who zealously fights to protect his clients' interests. He does not back down and he consistently gets great results. Aaron has also proven himself to be one of the go-to attorneys for any medical marijuana issue. I highly recommend Aaron."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Aaron is an outstanding attorney, who works tirelessly for his clients. Aaron leaves no stone unturned in his pursuit of the best resolution for clients, and his results speak for themselves. I give this attorney my strongest endorsement."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I regularly refer cases to Aaron that are beyond my area of expertise. To say he is a sharp lawyer is an understatement. Aaron dedicates himself 100% to each case he takes on. And I endorse his work 100%."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Aaron is very honest and hardworking. And if there's a creative legal solution out there, Aaron will find it."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse Aaron Pelley, an attorney who has achieved tremendous results for his clients in very challenging cases. I have referred cases to Aaron, knowing that he will do an outstanding job for his clients. In addition, Aaron is well thought of by his colleagues, and is very generous with his time."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Aaron is very professional and I would feel comfortable referring any client to him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have worked with Mr. Pelley in the past and have found him to be a personable, skilled and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. I know that he is dedicated to his practice and committed to his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I recently met Mr. Pelley at a continuing learning education course focused on trial work, and was amazed by his understanding of criminal defense. Mr. Pelley has dedicated himself to the defense of persons charged with crimes, and I will refer people to him without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Aaron Pelley for a while and Aaron is a very dedicated and hard working advocate for his clients. Mr. Pelley is very well versed in the law and I would recommend him to anybody."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Aaron is an amazing attorney and highly respected among his peers. He is articulate and well-versed in trial advocacy."
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Intellectual property
Contracts and agreements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Criminal defense