Mari Carella

Biography

Mari Carella is a seasoned and tenacious attorney at Drake Law Firm, specializing in Personal Injury Law and licensed to practice in both California and Texas. Her comprehensive legal career includes extensive experience across all phases of personal injury- from case preparation and negotiation to settlement and litigation.

Mari's approach to law is deeply influenced by her unique ability to empathize with her clients during some of the most challenging periods of their lives. She ensures that her clients are well-supported and informed, helping them navigate the complexities of legal processes with compassion and personal attention.

Her tactical acumen in negotiations is backed by a profound understanding of both the minutiae and broader implications of each case. Mari approaches every case with the understanding that obstacles are opportunities to skillfully execute a vision, creating unique solutions that drive both revenue and value for her clients. Mari’s skill as a negotiator comes from a deep engagement with her clients’ stories combined with medical expertise, enabling her to advocate effectively and secure favorable settlements that often circumvent the need for lengthy trials. She has successfully negotiated multiple 6 and 7-figure settlements, helping many clients avoid costly litigation while ensuring their best interests are met.

Her international experience is equally impressive, having studied abroad in Spain and worked in Milan, Italy where she honed her skills in Intellectual Property at a prestigious law firm. Mari’s travels across six continents have elevated her ability to communicate effectively with diverse personalities and client backgrounds, enhancing her natural talent to manage complex situations with sophistication.

Before her tenure at Drake Law Firm, Mari garnered significant experience in Entertainment Law, working with industry giants such as Fox Television, DreamWorks, and Interscope Geffen A&M. Her shift from entertainment to personal injury law was catalyzed by her involvement in a landmark case against the Regents of the University of California, where she played a pivotal role in achieving a historic settlement and confirmed her passion for advocating on behalf of those harmed by negligence.

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

Outside the courtroom, Mari is passionate about giving back to the community, 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 and first responders. This role complements her accreditation as an attorney with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Mari's personal life is as dynamic as her professional one. An avid practitioner of Krav Maga and a former competitive gymnast and professional soccer player, Mari believes in the power of discipline and teamwork, both in her personal and professional life. Her passions extend to travel, photography, and cooking, further enriching her broad perspective on life and law.

Mari is now poised to transition into a new leadership role as Chief Operations Officer at Drake Law Firm, where she will leverage her wealth of experience and visionary approach to overseeing the firm's operations, aiming to enhance the firm’s growth and success across all departments.

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