Rachel Anne Stern, Criminal Defense Attorney in Sacramento, California

Rachel concentrates on criminal defense and general. Each area below outlines the kind of case Rachel handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

  View other Criminal Defense attorneys

• General

  View other General attorneys

Rachel's primary office is at Sacramento, CA, 95812-4036. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Rachel usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Rachel discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Rachel for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Rachel walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Rachel offer a free consultation?

  Rachel charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Rachel's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Rachel's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in California typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Rachel gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Rachel take my case if I'm outside Sacramento?

  Rachel is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Rachel will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Rachel?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Rachel will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Rachel accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Rachel's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.