Desirae Sanchez

Desirae Sanchez is a passionate criminal defense attorney and associate attorney at Shnider Law Firm in San Jose, California, focusing in post-conviction relief as well as misdemeanor and felony cases. With experience in the public defender's office, she has assisted clients with parole board preparation, conducted research on resentencing relief under laws like the Racial Justice Act, and worked extensively on Franklin motions for youthful offender parole hearings. Known for her strong research, writing skills, and empathetic approach, Desirae is a dedicated advocate for justice.
 

Fluent in Spanish, she brings cultural awareness to her practice, addressing the unique challenges faced by diverse communities in the legal system. Desirae earned her JD with a focus on Trial & Appellate Advocacy from McGeorge School of Law and holds a BA in Chicano and Latino Studies from Sonoma State University. Her commitment to her clients and dedication to equity make her an invaluable member of the Shnider Law Firm team.

Impact of Chicano and Latino Studies:

Desirae's background in Chicano and Latino Studies (CALS) has played a crucial role in shaping her career as a criminal defense attorney. The CALS department not only helped her learn about herself but also provided invaluable insights into:

• Immigration laws and movements

• Civil rights legislation

• Generational trauma affecting Latino communities and marginalized groups

This knowledge has been instrumental in understanding the complex factors contributing to the U.S. mass incarceration crisis. By studying the historical and societal contexts that have affected generations of Latinos, Desirae gained a deeper understanding of the challenges her clients face in the legal system.
 

Her CALS education continues to inform her practice, allowing her to approach cases with a nuanced perspective that considers the intersectionality of race, culture, and law. This unique insight enables Desirae to provide more effective and culturally sensitive representation to her clients, particularly those from marginalized communities who are disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system.

At Shnider Law Firm, Desirae applies this comprehensive understanding to her work, striving to address the root causes of legal issues while providing zealous advocacy for her clients.