Aaron Palley

Attorney Aaron Palley is a criminal defense attorney who represents clients in California state courts. Since being admitted to the California Bar in 2008, he has built a practice focused on strategic, client-centered defense, combining thorough legal research, strong motion practice, and practical problem solving to pursue the best possible outcomes for his clients.

Mr. Palley focuses on criminal defense matters including DUI cases, domestic violence allegations, theft and fraud offenses, and gun and weapons charges. He also represents clients in civil harassment and domestic violence restraining order matters and assists individuals seeking post-conviction relief such as expungements and sentence reductions. In addition, he has experience helping clients pursue mental health diversion programs when appropriate.

His approach to criminal defense is grounded in careful analysis of the prosecution’s evidence and a strong commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of individuals accused of crimes. Depending on the circumstances of the case, this may involve negotiating a favorable resolution or aggressively challenging the case through motions and trial advocacy. Mr. Palley focuses on identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and developing a thoughtful strategy tailored to the specific needs of each client.

Early in his career, Mr. Palley worked as a research and writing attorney on a capital murder defense case at the Sacramento County Public Defender’s Office, where he assisted in the preparation of complex legal motions and trial strategy. He also interned with the Sacramento County Public Defender’s Office while in law school. These experiences helped shape his analytical approach to criminal defense and strengthened his foundation in constitutional criminal procedure.

Mr. Palley later entered private practice and now serves as an associate attorney with Summit Defense Attorneys. His background in legal research and writing, combined with his academic training in criminal law and constitutional issues, supports a strategic and detail-oriented approach to defending clients facing serious criminal charges.

Outside of his legal practice, Mr. Palley enjoys rock climbing, reading, playing chess, and playing guitar.

Education

• UC Berkeley graduate with a degree in psychology
• UC Davis in 2008

Awards & Membership

• Member, State Bar of California
• Admitted to the California Bar, 2008

Practice Areas

Case Results

• Client Charged with Illegal Firearm Possession & Probation Violation; After challenging the prosecution's case and negotiating with the district attorney, the charges were dismissed, allowing the client to avoid custody and additional penalties.
• Cross-Complaint Domestic Violence Restraining Order Matter; Successfully obtained a restraining order protecting the client while defeating the opposing party's request for a reciprocal restraining order.
• Client Charged with Felony Conspiracy & Organized Retail Theft; Negotiated resolution allowing the client to remain out of custody, resulting primarily in probation and electronic monitoring instead of jail, with the return of most seized property.
• Client Charged with Felony Animal Abuse; Client successfully completed Mental Health Treatment Court. The felony charge was reduced to a misdemeanor and the conviction was expunged.