Aaron Palley is a relentless advocate for the accused, bringing nearly two decades of legal experience and an unwavering commitment to justice. A UC Berkeley graduate with a degree in psychology, he has a deep understanding of human behavior—an invaluable tool in criminal defense, whether it’s analyzing witness credibility, crafting persuasive arguments for a jury, or navigating the complexities of mental health in the justice system.
While earning his law degree from UC Davis in 2008, Palley quickly distinguished himself as a fierce and strategic defender. He was a standout on the national mock trial team and a key member of the Prison Law Clinic, where he handled complex cases that reinforced his passion for constitutional rights. He also worked on criminal and immigration appellate cases alongside Professor James F. Smith and spent a summer with the Sacramento Public Defender’s Office, gaining hands-on experience in high-stakes defense work. His legal talent led to a post-law school position there as research and writing attorney on a major murder death penalty case. Though he explored other legal fields during the economic downturn, his dedication to criminal defense never wavered.
Now, Palley is back in the courtroom where he thrives—zealously representing clients, challenging the system, and ensuring that justice is not just a principle, but a reality. Outside of the law, he’s a passionate rock climber, avid reader, chess strategist, and guitar player, pursuits that reflect the same focus, patience, and problem-solving mindset he brings to every case. Whether scaling a rock face or dismantling a prosecution’s argument, he knows that success comes from strategy, precision, and an unshakable will to win.
