Behind the Scenes at Conroe Criminal Defense Attorney, Brian Foley Law: Meet Legal Assistant Rachel Cantu

Conroe Criminal Defense Attorney - Brian Foley

Behind the Scenes at Brian Foley Law: Meet Legal Assistant Rachel Cantu

At Brian Foley Law, we believe it's important for our clients to get to know the people behind the scenes who help make their legal experience as smooth as possible. Today, we’re excited to introduce Rachel Cantu, a key member of our team who serves as a legal assistant at our office. Here’s a closer look at her role and insights into her work.

What Does a Legal Assistant Do?

As a legal assistant, Rachel plays a crucial role in supporting the firm’s operations both in and out of the office. From assisting with court dates to managing documentation, her tasks are diverse and vital for the smooth functioning of the firm.

"A typical day includes going to court, assisting with hearings, and working with clients to ensure they meet any requirements set by the court," Rachel explains. "Whether it’s securing new court dates or helping clients with mitigation classes, I work closely with both the attorney and the court to make sure everything runs smoothly."

Embracing Technology: The E-Filing System

In recent years, the legal industry has moved away from paper documents and embraced technology—something Rachel particularly enjoys.

"My favorite part of the job is probably e-filing," she says. "I love learning how to navigate the e-filing system, whether it’s filing petitions or submitting documents related to occupational licenses. It’s exciting to be part of this transition from paper to electronic filings."

Rachel elaborates on the shift: "Back in the day, offices used paper for everything, and it often felt chaotic. But with an electronic system, it’s so much easier to organize, save, and retrieve documents. It’s definitely made things much more efficient."

The Adjustment to a Paperless Office

Rachel came from a background where paper was still very much part of the workflow, so adjusting to a paperless system was a significant change. "It’s been an amazing difference. There used to be paper files everywhere, and by the end of the year, cleaning them out was a nightmare. Now, everything is stored digitally, which makes it easier to find what you need without the clutter."

Of course, while the shift has its advantages, Rachel notes there are still moments when paper is necessary. "When we go to trial, for example, we need printed documents to present to a jury, but for the most part, we rely on digital tools."

The Challenges of a Fully Digital System

While technology has made many tasks easier, there are still challenges, particularly when it comes to client interactions. "The hardest part of being fully digital is dealing with clients who aren’t as tech-savvy," Rachel shares. "Sometimes we have to walk them through how to sign documents electronically. It’s a process, but we make sure they understand everything before moving forward."

Going to Court: What to Expect

For clients facing their first court date, the process can be intimidating. Rachel describes what it’s like going to court in Montgomery County: "It can be overwhelming. There are so many people, and it’s easy to feel lost. Montgomery County’s courthouse is large with two entrances, and sometimes clients don’t know where to go. But when you work with Brian Foley Law, you can rest assured that we’ll be there early to guide you through the process."

On the first court date, Rachel is often the first point of contact for clients. "We always make sure to call clients about 10–15 minutes before court to ensure they’re on their way and haven’t encountered any last-minute issues. Once you arrive, we help you get settled and make sure you feel secure."

Handling the Jury Box: A Common Misunderstanding

While the first court appearance is often anxiety-inducing, Rachel reassures clients that it’s rare for someone to be sent to jail during this time—unless there’s a bond violation. "If a client ends up sitting in the jury box, it can be concerning. But there are many reasons this could happen, like missing documentation or administrative errors."

Rachel explains further: "For instance, clients who have failed to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle may find themselves in the jury box. An ignition interlock is a device that requires drivers to blow into it before their car starts. If it’s not installed or functioning properly, it could result in a violation."

While it may seem alarming, Rachel emphasizes that not all situations are as serious as they might first appear. "We always work quickly to address any issues, and if there’s been a misunderstanding, we do our best to resolve it as soon as possible."

What Makes Clients Happy?

At the end of the day, Rachel says that what makes clients happiest is responsiveness. "Clients light up when they receive a prompt response from us. They feel heard, and that’s what matters most to us. We’re here to answer any questions and make sure clients feel supported every step of the way."

We’re proud to have Rachel as part of our team at Brian Foley Law. Her dedication, attention to detail, and passion for her work ensure that our clients receive the highest level of service. If you’re looking for a team that goes above and beyond to help you navigate your legal journey, Rachel and the rest of our team are here for you.