Attorney Profile
Rachel M. Self
Rachel M. Self is the founding member of Rachel M. Self, P.C., and appears regularly as a legal analyst for the Fox News Channel and CNN. She provides criminal defense and immigration law representation to clients throughout the area. In her immigration practice, she assists individuals in a variety of matters, including people who are seeking asylum as well as those who are facing deportation. Ms. Self also helps people who are attempting to qualify for permanent resident visas, including family-based petitions, and she provides representation to those who are seeking to become naturalized citizens. Her fluency in Spanish is a benefit in this particular part of her practice.
Ms. Self provides defense representation to people who have been charged with state or federal offenses. The types of cases that she has handled in this regard have included driving under the influence, domestic violence, sex crimes, money laundering, assault and battery, drug possession and distribution, and juvenile crimes.
Since obtaining her Juris Doctor in 2004, Ms. Self has earned the respect of her colleagues for her dedication to her clients and high degree of ethics. The holder of a 10.0 "Superb" peer review rating through Avvo, she has also been named to The National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 Under 40 for several consecutive years. Admitted to practice before all Massachusetts state courts, Ms. Self is also admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Immigration Lawyers Association and the Massachusetts Bar Association.
Practice Areas:
Criminal Defense: 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
Immigration: 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.
Honors/Awards:
Super Lawyers: 2019 - 2022
Super Lawyers Rising Stars: 2009 - 2017
AVVO Client's Choice Award, AVVO, 2013-2022., Client's Choice Award, AVVO
Top Immigration Attorney, Boston Magazine and Superlawyers, 2009-2017
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyer, 2017
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers, 2016
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers, 2015
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers, 2014
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers, 2013
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers, 2012
Representative Cases - Verdicts and Settlements:
Rachel obtains approval in I-601A case for client. Lawful permanent residence granted., 2017
Rachel wins Motion for New Trial in Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon case. All charges against client dismissed. Citizenship granted., 2017
Rachel obtains favorable outcome for client charged with 2 counts of Rape. All Rape charges dismissed., 2017
Rachel obtained a Nolle Prosequi in a drug trafficking case. All charges against the client dismissed., 2017
Rachel wins Motion for New Trial on DUI charges. Case dismissed. Lawful Permanent Residence Granted., 2017
Rachel wins Motion for New Trial in larceny case. Lawful permanent residence restored to client. Deportation proceedings terminated., 2016
Rachel obtains a Not Guilty jury verdict for client wrongfully accused of several counts sexual assault., 2016
Rachel wins Motion for New Trial in Drug Possession case. Charges dismissed. Citizenship granted., 2016
Rachel wins Motion for New Trial in Drug Trafficking case. Charges dismissed., 2016
Rachel received a Not Guilty in a Reckless Driving trial., 2016
Rachel received a Not Guilty in an OUI second offense jury trial., 2015
Rachel obtained a Not Guilty in an Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon case., 2014
Rachel recently obtained a Not Guilty verdict in a sexual assault trial., 2014
Rachel obtained a Not Guilty in a Threats and Assault and Battery Trial., 2013
Rachel obtained a Not Guilty in a Assault and Battery and Assault and Battery of a Police officer trial., 2013
Rachel obtained a Not Guilty in a Threats and Assault and Battery trial., 2012
Rachel obtained a Not Guilty in an Assult and Battery trial., 2012
In the News:
In response to the Trump anti-immigrant era, Massachusetts developed a strong legal and advocacy muscle., Boston Globe 9-23-2022
Rachel discusses the case of immigrants flown to Martha's Vineyard., Boston Globe 9-21-2022
Lawyers for migrants flown to Martha’s Vineyard seeking nationwide injunction against Florida Governor DeSantis to halt further transfers, Boston Globe 9-21-2022
Perla, the woman migrants say enticed them onto planes, reflects an ugliness we must contend with, Boston Glove 9-17-2022
Immigration attorney says migrants are free to leave Joint Base Cape Cod, CBS News 9-17-2022
As many Central European nations begin voicing concerns that they’re reaching capacity to house the influx of Ukrainian refugees, there are reports of some Ukrainians trying to make their way into the U.S. across the Mexican border. Rachel discusses the issues in this article., Ukrainian Refugees Eye Mexican Border for U.S. Entry
Rachel discusses how in anticipation of the Supreme Court’s upcoming ruling on Mississippi’s 15-week abortion ban, conservative state legislatures are making plans now to hold special sessions later this Spring and Summer, to weigh eliminating or restricting abortion rights while liberal states are making preparations to become “safe havens” against abortion bans., Red, Blue States Gear Up Ahead of Supreme Court's Abortion Ruling
Rachel discusses the leaked opinion from the US Supreme Court., Upcoming Abortion Ruling Could Threaten Privacy Rights
In the most direct challenge to Roe v Wade in decades, the Supreme Court is expected to rule on Mississippi’s new abortion law in June or July. While the 6-3 conservative-leaning Supreme Court Justices signaled a willingness to uphold the Mississippi case back in December when they heard oral arguments, some legal minds say the door may not be shut on Roe v Wade just yet., Does a Conservative Court Mean the End of Roe v. Wade
President Biden’s proposed immigration bill devotes resources to cure the root causes of why people flee their homes in the first place," Self said. "No border can stop people from trying to save their families from gang violence or starvation. Until their homes are safe and prosperous, people will always migrate. President Biden’s bill does far more to address migration to the U.S. than President Trump’s unbuilt wall ever did or could., What will President Biden's Immigration Overhaul Mean for National Security?
It may be impossible to overstate the complexities of the immigration crisis playing out along the U.S. southern border. There are the legalities associated with the apprehension of hundreds of thousands of migrants during a surge this year that overwhelmed border facilities, along with changes in the asylum application process. The immigration system itself is facing unprecedented pressures, and all of this is playing out in a politically polarized environment., Reflecting on the Challenges of Immigration Law
Ms. Self said she urges people to seek out accurate information and know their rights., National Policies Spread Fear Among Vineyard Immigrants
Video Appearances (See Media for more):
Rachel discusses the case of the immigrants flown to Martha's Vineyard., Rachel Self CNN Tonight 9-22-2022, 2022
Rachel discusses the case of immigrants flown to Martha's Vineyard., Rachel Self 9-15-2022 Press Conference , 2022
Rachel discusses the murder of Mr. Rayshard Brooks in Atlanta, Georgia., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 6-14-2020, 2020
Rachel discusses legal liability for social media companies., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 2-23-2020, 2020
Rachel Self discusses the recent release of recordings by President Trump's former attorney, Michael Cohen., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 7-28-2018, 2018
Rachel discusses President Trump's travel ban orders., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 1-29-2017, 2017
Rachel discusses the Mueller Report., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 3-23-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses the redacted Mueller report., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 4-21-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses the sentencing of Paul Manafort., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 3-10-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the asylum policy recently enacted by President Trump., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 9-15-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses Michael Flynn's firing of his legal team and possible next steps., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 6-8-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses the recent Supreme Court rulings regarding gerrymandering and the 2020 census., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 6-30-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses Illinois charges for murder against 9 year-old child., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 10-12-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses immigration and due process rights., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 4-28-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses the next steps in the President Trump impeachment hearings., Rachel Self Fox News Channel 11-30-2019, 2019
Rachel discusses the Oscar Pistorius murder trial., 2014
Rachel recently appeared on the Fox News Channel to discuss the Maine Ebola quarantine case., 2014
Rachel recently appeared on CNN Newsroom to discuss the Boston Bombing case and the Utah Soccer Referee case., 2013
Rachel discusses the Mayor Filner lawsuit., 2013
Rachel Discusses the SUV/NY Biker case, 2013
Rachel discusses the latest testimony in the Jodi Arias case., 2013
Rachel discusses how to protect yourself if you have the winning lottery ticket., 2012
Rachel discusses the Supreme Court hearings scheduled on President Obama's health care law., 2012
Rachel discusses SSA benefits for children born after their father's death., 2012
Rachel discusses how to protect yourself if you have the winning lottery ticket., 2012
Rachel discusses a possible insanity defense for James Holmes., 2012
Rachel discusses Charlie Sheen's $100M lawsuit against Warner Brothers., 2011
Rachel discusses the bizarre homicide of motivational speaker Jeffrey Locker and the assisted suicide defense., 2011
Rachel discusses the "hot sauce mom" case., 2011
Rachel discusses the Supreme Court's recent decision in Connick v. Thompson., 2011
Rachel discusses the DOJ's investigation into the mortgage industry., 2010
Scholarly Lectures and Writings:
In light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s rulings in Moncrieffe v. Holder, Descamps v. United States, and Mathis v. United States, a well-structured plea bargain can make all the difference to your immigration case. What can you do to ensure your clients receive the best plea bargain? How can you improve communication with defense counsel? The panelists will provide insight and tips on coordinating the plea process with defense counsel, increasing your chances for the best possible outcome. Featured Topics Documents: What Comprises the "Criminal Disposition"? Sentences and Enhancements: When Do Misdemeanors Equal a Felony? Educating the Prosecutor Don't Ask Too Much: Knowing Where Defense Counsel Will Draw the Line Knowing Your Jurisdiction, Panelist, The Perfect Plea Bargain: What Defense Counsel Wants You to Know, AILA, 2017
“You who are so-called illegal aliens must know that no human being is illegal. That is a contradiction in terms. Human beings can be beautiful or more beautiful, they can be fat or skinny, they can be right or wrong, but illegal? How can a human being be illegal?” —Elie Wiesel, writer, Nobel Prize winner, and holocaust surviver. “Help! My husband has just been detained by ICE. I don’t know what to do!” Now, more than ever, immigrants are being taken into custody by ICE. A mother, brother, husband, or child has just been detained by Immigration and the family has no idea what do to next. Where is the client? Where will they be taken? What happens next? What are the client’s rights? In this new era, we need to be ever vigilant in how we zealously advocate for our clients. How has the new administration and its policies affected representation of immigrants and immigrants with criminal issues? Is it a crime in itself to be “illegal”? “Hey counsel, just so you know, that guy has a detainer from ICE.” Hearing this at the arraignment could change your entire strategy for how to argue bail and how to effectively and zealously protect your client’s interests. Should you argue to have him held in state custody, or try to get him into federal immigration custody? What should your analysis be?, Chair, Crimmigration, MCLE, 2017
Immigration Law: MCLE BasicsPlus!® is an intensive program of lectures and discussion sessions that covers both family- and employer-based immigration law. Experts give you a practical introduction to the concepts and practice of immigration law, with updates and real-world strategies for successful lawyering. Over a series of two days, they provide you with an overview of laws, regulations, and agency policies and teach you how to spot issues and assess the immigration options for your clients. There is simply no better way to get the nuts-and-bolts training you need to kick-start your immigration practice., Panelist, Immigration Basics Plus, MCLE, 2016
Dealing with ICE and how to Find your Client - What is a Detainer? - Challenging ICE Detainers in State Court - Federal Immigration Custody v. State Custody - To Bail or Not to Bail? Reasons why Posting Bail is Not Always the Best Choice - Basics of Bond Hearings - Motions for New Trial and Sentence Reductions, Chair, Crimmigration, MCLE, 2016
Crimmigration—the intertwining of criminal and immigration law—can affect the noncitizen during every stage of his or her immigration status. This seminar discusses how to identify, analyze, and minimize the effect of a criminal conviction on your noncitizen client. Featured topics include: Overview of the Grounds of Inadmissibility and Removability Most Common Criminal Grounds of Removability and Inadmissibility; Importance of Determining the Immigration Consequences of a Criminal Conviction; How to Determine If a Conviction Is a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude, an Aggravated Felony, or a Crime of Violence; Minimizing the Effect of a Criminal Conviction on Your Client's Immigration Status, Panelist, Crimmigration 101, AILA, 2016
What is the categorical approach and how is it relevant to your client? This seminar focuses on recent case developments and practical approaches in removal defense. Learn how to use recent case law to contest removability or to argue eligibility for forms of relief. The panel gives practitioners an understanding of the authority behind the categorical approach and provides clear guidance on the concepts. In addition, the speakers offer practical suggestions on how to utilize the analysis in practice. Key Topics include: Identifying the Difference Between a Singular Offense (Which May Be Committed in Various Ways) vs. a Divisible Statute that Provides Alternative Offenses; Essential Holdings in Moncrieffe and Descamps; Extending Moncrieffe Past the Determination of Removability and into Available Relief; Recent Activity Involving the Categorical Approach and How It May Save Your Client; Practical Tips to Implement into Your Practice, Panelist, Categorial Approach - What Every Practitioner Needs to Know, AILA, 2015
Seminar focusing on some of the fundamentals of what to do when your client encounters the immigration consequences of criminal charges., Chair, Crimmigration 101, MCLE, 2014
Rachel is on a panel discussing the ins and outs of practicing before the Boston Immigration Court., Panelist, MCLE Basics Plus Immigration Law, MCLE, 2014
Rachel participated on a panel which conducted a mock Motion for New Trial based on issues under Padilla v. Kentucky., Panelist, Mock Trial: Current Issues Under Padilla v. Kentucky, Massachusetts Bar Association, 2014
Chaired a seminar focused on fundamentals of what to do when ICE issues detainers against your client and what to do when the murky waters of criminal law and immigration consequences intersect., Program Chair, Crimmgration 101, MCLE, 2014
Rachel was a panelist for this program sponsored by the Massachusetts Bar Association. Topics to be highlighted include information-gathering for the client's immigration file, qualification status for permanent residence, selective service issues, the effect of previous deportation/unlawful presence in U.S., and criminal issues., Panelist, MBA Pitfalls for the Unwary - How to get citizenship without getting deported, Massachusetts Bar Association, 2014
Rachel did a seminar in the Zealous Advocacy class on how to do your best closing argument., Panelist, MCLE Zealous Advocacy in the District Courts, MCLE, 2014
Rachel was a panelist discussing Immigration Court practice tips., Panelist, MCLE Basics Plus in Immigration Law, MCLE, 2013
Rachel guest lectured at Harvard University's Introduction to the Law class and discussed the history of immigration law and present issues facing people wanting to immigrate to the US., Guest Lecturer, Harvard University Introduction to the Law, 2013
Rachel presented to members of the MBA how to effectively prepare an affirmative asylum application., Panelist, Preparing Successful Affirmative Asylum Applications, Massachusetts Bar Association, 2013
Rachel presented on the MCLE panel regarding criminal defense and immigration and the immigration consequences of criminal activity., Panelist, Criminal Defense and Immigration, MCLE, 2012
Rachel was the moderator at the 2011 AILA New England Immigration Law Conference in Advanced Immigration Strategies for the EOIR panel. Topics discussed included prosecutorial discretion, criminal consequences, Padilla v. Kentucky, and recent case law in Removal Proceedings., Moderator - EOIR Advanced Practice Stragies, 8th Annual New England AILA Advanced Immigration Strategies Conference, 2011
Rachel presented on the basics of Removal Proceedings before the immigration court., Panelist for Immigration Court Procedure and Relief from Removal, MCLE Immigration Basics, 2010
Rachel lectured on the immigration consequences of criminal activity and post conviction relief issues., Lecturer - Advanced Topics in Litigation, AILA New England Immigration Law Conference, 2010
Selected teaching engagements:
Immigration and the Law, UMASS Dartmouth School of Law, 2012
Mexican Judiciary Exchange Program on Criminal Law, Judicial Conference, 2012
Criminal Law and Immigration Law Training, Massachusetts Bar Association Conference, 2012
Immigration Basics, Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc, 2011
Immigration Consequences of Criminal Conduct, Judicial Conference, 2011
Advanced Immigration Litigation Practice, AILA New England Immigration Law Conference, 2011
From Cuffs to Court – What Happens when ICE Detains Your Client? – Presenter, AILA New England Chapter, 2011
Immigration Basics, Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc., 2010
Advanced Issues in Litigation, AILA New England Immigration Law Conference, 2010