Associate Attorney
Marianela Smale is an attorney dedicated to serving clients in criminal, family, and immigration law. Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, she offers a valuable perspective shaped by her own experience as an immigrant who arrived in the United States in 2000, learned English as an adult, and rebuilt her career with determination and resilience.
Marianela is a licensed attorney in Wisconsin and holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, an MBA from Alverno College, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Superior. Her legal foundation includes early work in Venezuela, where she clerked for a Family Court judge for two years—a role that strengthened her commitment to helping individuals navigate sensitive and complex legal issues.
Before practicing law in the United States, Marianela held leadership roles in Human Resources with a focus on employee relations, compliance, and organizational strategy. She worked closely with corporate legal departments at Grainger, SC Johnson, and Dairy Farmers of America, gaining extensive experience with legal compliance, conflict resolution, and high‑level decision‑making.
As an immigrant herself, Marianela understands the challenges many of her client’s face—learning a new language, navigating unfamiliar systems, and working to secure stability for themselves and their families. This lived experience allows her to connect with clients on a meaningful level, explain legal concepts clearly, and approach every case with empathy and respect. Her combination of legal training, professional experience, and personal journey allows her to advocate effectively for individuals and families working to protect their rights and build a stronger future.
