Mariana Rueda Santana is a skilled Associate Solicitor within the Criminal Defence Department at our Princes Risborough office, taking on both private and legal aid cases in Buckinghamshire. With experience representing clients at both the police station and the Magistrates’ Court, Mariana provides expert legal assistance across a wide range of criminal offences. She has developed a strong passion for youth court work, with a particular focus on advocating for young and vulnerable clients, ensuring they receive the attention and legal representation they deserve during challenging times.
Before qualifying as a solicitor, Mariana worked at Reeds Solicitors as a legal secretary and trainee solicitor, gaining valuable experience in criminal law. Her previous background in corporate communications has given her the ability to adapt to clients’ needs and communicate complex legal issues in an understandable and approachable manner.
Mariana’s reputation for being approachable, empathetic, and compassionate allows her to create a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable and understood—essential qualities when dealing with serious legal matters. Her ability to provide legal services in both English and Spanish ensures that she can assist a diverse range of clients in their time of need.
Whether you’re facing allegations at the police station or need defence in court, Mariana is committed to offering personalised, professional legal support that puts your best interests first.
Recent and notable cases
Represented a juvenile defendant at the youth court for Public Order and Assault Emergency Worker offences. Was able to successfully mitigate following a guilty plea securing a six-month conditional discharge for the defendant.
Represented a defendant with severe mental health difficulties for one count of theft, two counts of criminal damage and one failure to appear offence. After a guilty plea, Mariana mitigated on the defendant’s behalf, addressing the court on the defendant’s mental health state at the time of the offences. She was able to secure a sentence of compensation only for the theft and criminal damage offences and no separate penalty for the failure to appear.
Represented a neurodivergent juvenile at the youth court for an offence of sexual assault by touching. Following a guilty plea by the defendant, Mariana was able to successfully mitigate securing an 11-month youth referral order.
Testimonials
Mariana delivered a highly professional and compassionate service to our son, helping to mitigate the complexities of his situation. In parallel, she provided clarity and understanding for us as parents, her knowledge and expertise helped us all to navigate a difficult situation.
Parents of a Client
Very professional and pleased with the outcome of my case. Thank you Paola and Mariana!
Client
Mariana provided a 1st class service right from the start. She was diligent, professional and worked behind the scenes on my behalf.
Client
Mariana, you have been simply incredible, passionate and a huge support. Thank you so much.
Client
Mariana delivered a highly professional and compassionate service to our son, helping to mitigate the complexities of his situation. In parallel, she provided clarity and understanding for us as parents, her knowledge and expertise helped us all to navigate a difficult situation.
Parents of a Client
Very professional and pleased with the outcome of my case. Thank you Paola and Mariana!
Client
Mariana provided a 1st class service right from the start. She was diligent, professional and worked behind the scenes on my behalf.
Client
Mariana, you have been simply incredible, passionate and a huge support. Thank you so much.
Client