Rachel Shinville

Rachel's unwavering dedication to justice and compassion is deeply rooted in her upbringing in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. Raised by parents immersed in academia, her formative years instilled in her a profound love for learning, empathy, and equity. From an early age, Rachel's strong ethical principles and a genuine desire to assist others paved the way for her eventual career in the field of law and criminal defense. Her ability to forge meaningful connections and empathize with her clients' unique needs and broader aspirations is a hallmark of her success in representing the individuals we serve. Rachel's professional journey commenced as a legal assistant at a personal injury firm in Chicago, Illinois. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into the synergy between attorneys and legal assistants. It was here that she grasped the importance of teamwork dynamics, knowledge that continues to underpin her accomplishments as a valued member of the Reynolds Defense Firm. Subsequently, Rachel transitioned from her role as a legal assistant to pursue a legal education at Lewis & Clark Law School. Her initial two years as an attorney, working in public defense, significantly shaped her identity as a lawyer. During this time, Rachel witnessed the profound impact an arrest could have on a person's life, realizing the tremendous stakes faced by individuals entangled in criminal charges. Her tenure in public defense also solidified her belief that the majority of individuals navigating the criminal justice system—whether innocent or having made a regrettable decision—often find themselves ensnared due to underlying issues in their lives. This philosophy seamlessly aligns with the ethos of the Reynolds Defense Firm, making it a natural fit for Rachel to join our ranks. Our firm is dedicated to helping clients comprehend the underlying causes of their arrests and empowering them to address the root problems in their lives.