Overview
Ariel Schneller is a trial lawyer at the firm. His practice focuses on helping people who have been harmed by corporations seek justice and recover what they are owed.
Ariel graduated Yale University (B.A., 2006) and Harvard Law School (J.D., 2013). Following college, Ariel pursued a successful career as a professional poker player, competing and winning in some of the toughest games in the world. He also coached other professional players.
In 2009, Ariel chose to attend law school to pursue a more fulfilling career. After graduating, he began his law career as a public defender, advocating for those in need. For thirteen years, Ariel represented people accused of crimes who could not afford an attorney, working with the Legal Aid Society in New York (in Queens and Manhattan) and later with the Maryland Office of the Public Defender in Prince George’s County. Along the way, he argued countless motions to dismiss and suppress, conducted over 20 jury trials, and developed a reputation as a fierce advocate for his clients.
Ariel joined Dovel & Luner in 2025.
Education
- Harvard Law School, (J.D., cum laude, 2013)
- Yale University, (B.A., 2006)
Personal Facts
- Ariel’s birthday is February 29, and he has always wondered why so many people say “that explains so much” when they find out he’s a leap-day baby.
- Ariel grew up in Blacksburg, Virginia and is a diehard Virginia Tech Hokies fan.
- Despite having no connection to anyone on the team, Ariel managed to get into the Cleveland Cavaliers locker room after their Game 7 win in 2016 and celebrated the victory with them.
Joining Dovel & Luner
When my wife had our second child, I needed a break from practicing law. I loved being a public defender, but it was stressful enough without a toddler and a newborn. So, I left my job and went back to playing poker at the local casino.
My time playing poker was a lot of fun: I had a flexible schedule, no stress, and I love the game. I was in no rush to get back to being a lawyer, but things changed when Dovel & Luner offered me a job. The opportunity to work with elite attorneys who are deeply committed to doing righteous work was too exciting to pass up. And my confidence in the firm was rewarded: every day our mass torts team seeks justice for people who, through no fault of their own, suffer terribly from corporate greed and wrongdoing. Plus, I get to work for a cause I care about, with attorneys who care about their clients and each other.