Meet Mari Carella, Esq.

Mari Carella is a formidable and dedicated attorney at Drake the Lawyer, with a strong focus on Personal Injury Law. She is licensed to practice in both California and Texas, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients. Mari's legal career spans all aspects of personal injury, from meticulous case preparation and strategic negotiation to achieving settlements and successfully navigating litigation.

Mari’s approach is characterized by her deep empathy for clients who are often facing some of the most difficult times in their lives. She prioritizes support and clear communication, ensuring her clients feel understood and confident throughout the legal process. This compassionate approach is paired with sharp tactical skills, allowing her to negotiate effectively and craft innovative solutions tailored to each case.

Her proficiency in negotiations is underpinned by a comprehensive understanding of case details and broader legal implications. Mari views each challenge as an opportunity to implement strategic visions, driving both value and successful outcomes for her clients. Her exceptional negotiation skills, combined with medical insights, have led to multiple high-value settlements, often bypassing the need for protracted trials. Mari has secured numerous 6 and 7-figure settlements, consistently prioritizing her clients’ best interests.

Mari’s international legal experience is extensive. She studied abroad in Spain and worked in Milan, Italy, where she specialized in Intellectual Property at a top-tier law firm. Her travels across six continents have honed her ability to interact with diverse clients and navigate complex situations with finesse.

Before joining Drake the Lawyer, Mari gained substantial experience in Entertainment Law, collaborating with major entities like Fox Television, DreamWorks, and Interscope Geffen A&M. A pivotal moment in her career was her involvement in a landmark case against the Regents of the University of California, which solidified her commitment to personal injury law and advocating for those affected by negligence.

Mari holds a Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine University School of Law and graduated Cum Laude from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts. Her academic excellence was marked by her participation in an Advanced Honors program and consistent recognition on the Dean’s List.

Beyond the courtroom, Mari is devoted to community service, particularly supporting veterans and military families. She co-founded and serves as Vice President of the National Warrior Foundation, focusing on mental health support for military personnel and first responders. Additionally, she is accredited as an attorney with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Mari’s personal interests are as dynamic as her professional endeavors. She practices Krav Maga, and her background includes being a competitive gymnast and professional soccer player, underscoring her belief in discipline and teamwork. Her hobbies also include travel, photography, and cooking, enriching her perspective on life and her legal practice.

Mari is set to assume a new leadership position as Chief Operations Officer at Drake the Lawyer. In this role, she will draw on her extensive experience and innovative mindset to oversee the firm’s operations, driving growth and success across all departments.

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