His practice extends across both state and federal courts, where he provides appellate services including direct appeals, petitions for review, and petitions for writ of certiorari. He frequently appears in courts across California, and is a recognized member of the Criminal Justice Act appellate panels for multiple U.S. District Courts in California. In civil matters, he is well-versed in representing clients at every stage of the litigation process—from trial court motions to the highest appellate forums. Whether assisting trial counsel or leading the case himself, Mr. Haller brings diligence, strategic insight, and a thorough understanding of legal precedent to each matter he handles.

Mr. Haller’s academic achievements reflect his intellectual rigor and lifelong commitment to excellence. A graduate of Princeton University, he earned his bachelor of arts in history with the highest honors, graduating summa cum laude. While at Princeton, he was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Society and led the American Whig-Cliosophic Society as its president. He then earned his juris doctor at Stanford Law School, one of the nation’s top legal institutions, laying the foundation for his specialization in litigation and international legal matters. His educational background equips him with the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for complex casework that spans multiple jurisdictions and legal systems.
In addition to his courtroom work, Alexis Haller frequently assists other attorneys with complex legal motions in state and federal courts. His peers often seek his guidance in FSIA litigation, where his knowledge of immunity defenses, diplomatic law, and sovereign representation makes him a valued collaborator. Though he primarily represents sovereign defendants, he is equally capable of supporting plaintiffs’ attorneys in navigating the procedural and substantive hurdles that define international litigation.
Alexis Haller’s bar admissions reflect his broad legal reach. He is licensed to practice law in California, Washington, and the District of Columbia, and is admitted before the United States Supreme Court as well as the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Second, Sixth, Seventh, and Ninth Circuits. These credentials support his nationwide and international practice, allowing him to litigate effectively across a wide variety of venues and jurisdictions. His legal acumen, bolstered by years of real-world success, places him among the more respected practitioners in the field of international and appellate law.
Beyond his professional life, Mr. Haller maintains a balanced lifestyle that includes spending time with his family, enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and surfing, and cheering on the New York Yankees. These personal interests reflect his commitment not only to professional excellence but also to living a well-rounded and grounded life. Clients often find that his approachability, combined with his sharp legal instincts, makes for a highly effective and reassuring legal advocate.
His affiliations with professional organizations such as the American Bar Association and the American Society of International Law further reflect his ongoing engagement with legal scholarship and his dedication to staying at the forefront of his field. Whether handling a high-stakes appeal or advising on a sensitive international matter, Alexis Haller brings a level of dedication, expertise, and professionalism that makes a significant difference for the clients he serves.
Over the years, Alexis Haller has become a trusted name for those facing challenging appellate or international legal issues that demand precision, discretion, and a mastery of procedure. His clients include individuals, corporations, foreign states, and diplomats, all of whom rely on his thorough legal analysis and tactical approach to safeguard their rights and interests. Mr. Haller’s strategic litigation style combines deep legal knowledge with a clear understanding of international relations and court protocol, making him especially adept in matters involving sensitive diplomatic contexts or overlapping jurisdictions.
His role in criminal litigation is equally formidable. Mr. Haller regularly represents clients in post-conviction proceedings, including petitions for habeas corpus and motions under 28 U.S.C. § 2254. These cases often involve reviewing trial records, identifying constitutional violations, and crafting persuasive appellate briefs that bring fresh scrutiny to trial court decisions. His ability to distill complex legal arguments into compelling narratives has made him an essential advocate in high-stakes appellate matters, particularly when clients are fighting for their liberty or seeking relief from unjust convictions.
In trial court settings, Mr. Haller lends his expertise in crafting major motions—such as motions to dismiss, motions to suppress, or motions in limine—that frequently shape the course of a case. His support is especially valued by trial counsel facing technically demanding legal questions or unfamiliar FSIA-related issues. In many instances, his contributions behind the scenes are pivotal in determining whether a case advances or is halted at an early procedural stage. Whether leading a case or working collaboratively, he approaches every legal challenge with thorough research, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence.
Mr. Haller’s work in the international legal sphere often involves advising on matters of jurisdiction, immunity, and enforcement of foreign judgments. His deep understanding of the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act allows him to evaluate whether a foreign government or its entities can be sued in U.S. courts and under what exceptions. He has not only defended sovereign clients against such claims but has also assisted plaintiffs’ attorneys in building legally sound arguments for when jurisdiction is appropriate. In these matters, he operates at the intersection of law, diplomacy, and policy—navigating the intricacies of treaties, executive agreements, and customary international law with the same confidence he brings to courtroom litigation.
Clients who turn to Alexis Haller often do so after encountering significant legal obstacles or following unfavorable rulings at the trial level. His ability to analyze an entire case history, identify reversible errors, and present those issues to appellate courts is a hallmark of his practice. He meticulously evaluates trial transcripts, court filings, evidentiary rulings, and jury instructions, searching for the points that can sway appellate judges. His legal writing is known for its clarity, precision, and authoritative tone—qualities that resonate strongly with reviewing courts and contribute to his high success rate in appeals.
What also distinguishes Mr. Haller is his adaptability across jurisdictions and procedural systems. Whether appearing in the California Court of Appeal, the United States Courts of Appeals, or the U.S. Supreme Court, he tailors his arguments to fit the forum, always mindful of the standards of review and the preferences of the judiciary. His approach to each case is both individualized and comprehensive, ensuring that no detail is overlooked and that every legal avenue is explored. This disciplined attention to detail, combined with his calm, focused demeanor, earns him the trust of clients navigating the most uncertain phases of their legal journey.
With an academic foundation rooted in two of the nation’s top universities, Alexis Haller continues to reflect the scholarly discipline and intellectual integrity that defined his time at Princeton and Stanford. His background in history informs a broader contextual view of legal systems, while his legal education instilled the practical skills required to argue persuasively, reason soundly, and write with clarity and impact. These traits have earned him not just victories in courtrooms, but also long-term professional relationships and the respect of colleagues across the legal community.
Professionally, Mr. Haller remains engaged with developments in international law and appellate practice through his membership in esteemed legal associations. His participation in the American Society of International Law keeps him connected to global legal trends and academic discourse, while his role in the American Bar Association provides a platform for continued professional development and collaboration. Through these networks, he both contributes to and benefits from the ongoing evolution of the legal field, staying ahead of emerging challenges in both domestic and international litigation.
In addition to his legal work, Mr. Haller's life outside the courtroom reflects a strong commitment to balance and well-being. His enjoyment of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and surfing not only rejuvenates his mind but also reflects the resilience and focus he brings to his legal practice. These personal pursuits, combined with his love of reading and quality time with family, ground his professional life in a sense of purpose and perspective that resonates with many of his clients. For those seeking not only legal expertise but also a trusted advisor during difficult times, Alexis Haller offers a steady, knowledgeable, and principled voice.
Clients who work with Alexis Haller often note his responsiveness, clear communication, and the confidence he instills through every phase of litigation. Whether advising a client facing a long appellate process or helping a foreign official navigate complex immunity challenges, Mr. Haller ensures that legal strategies are tailored, understandable, and rooted in the strongest legal precedents available. He approaches each client relationship with discretion and integrity, understanding that many of the cases he handles involve sensitive personal, political, or international dimensions. In doing so, he establishes trust not just through outcomes, but through the thoughtful, deliberate process by which those outcomes are achieved.
His commitment to appellate excellence is visible in the way he prepares his briefs, often anticipating counterarguments and addressing them with logical, well-researched points. Mr. Haller is known for taking the time to understand the broader implications of his cases—not just for the parties involved, but for how the outcomes might shape legal standards moving forward. This foresight is particularly vital in cases involving FSIA and international law, where rulings may influence diplomatic relations and future court interpretations. His fluency in multiple languages enhances his ability to review foreign-language materials without relying solely on translation, often giving him an edge in crafting more nuanced arguments.
Mr. Haller’s appellate work also includes petitions for writs of certiorari to the United States Supreme Court, a process that demands precision, clarity, and a deep understanding of constitutional and federal law. Although few cases are granted review by the nation’s highest court, the petition itself must be compelling, built on significant legal questions that warrant national attention. In crafting these petitions, Mr. Haller combines his extensive research capabilities with persuasive legal reasoning, offering his clients a strong chance at having their voices heard in the most consequential legal forum in the country.
Within the criminal justice system, Alexis Haller has proven to be a powerful advocate for those seeking post-conviction relief. His habeas corpus petitions often address serious constitutional violations—ineffective assistance of counsel, prosecutorial misconduct, or wrongful admission of evidence—and aim to rectify miscarriages of justice. For many clients, these proceedings represent their last chance at freedom or a fair trial, and Mr. Haller meets the weight of that responsibility with diligence and empathy. His command of constitutional law, especially the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Fourteenth Amendments, equips him to challenge unjust convictions with both technical precision and moral clarity.
Alexis HallerIn federal district courts, Mr. Haller’s litigation experience under the FSIA is among the most extensive in private practice. He has represented sovereign entities and diplomatic officials in lawsuits seeking to assert jurisdiction over foreign governments, often defending the legal principle that sovereigns are immune from such proceedings under international law. These cases frequently involve not only legal complexity but also a delicate understanding of international relations. Mr. Haller’s ability to argue sovereign immunity protections while respecting the larger diplomatic context has earned him recognition from peers and clients alike.
Attorneys throughout California and beyond frequently turn to Mr. Haller for help with drafting motions and appellate briefs in especially challenging cases. His reputation as a “lawyer’s lawyer” stems from his capacity to make sense of intricate legal problems and present them in a clear, authoritative voice. He is equally comfortable arguing before a three-judge appellate panel as he is assisting behind the scenes to strengthen a trial team’s legal footing. His contributions often make the difference between success and failure in litigation involving high stakes and limited margins for error.
As a legal strategist, Alexis Haller is deeply attuned to changes in both domestic appellate standards and evolving international legal doctrines. He continually studies new rulings and legislative developments that might affect the application of FSIA, diplomatic immunity, or habeas procedure. This ongoing engagement with the law allows him to offer fresh, up-to-date insights that clients can rely on. His work is not confined to what has worked in the past; he remains alert to new trends, emerging arguments, and evolving judicial attitudes, positioning his clients for success even in uncharted legal territory.
With a practice that spans trial, appellate, and international courts, Alexis Haller brings a rare combination of versatility and depth to his legal services. Each matter he handles benefits from his comprehensive view of the legal process—from initial filings to final appeals—and his understanding of how seemingly minor procedural decisions can have major implications down the line. Whether defending a sovereign nation, fighting for the wrongly convicted, or arguing complex civil appeals, Mr. Haller offers unwavering dedication, legal clarity, and a results-driven approach that consistently earns the trust of those he represents.
Throughout his career, Alexis Haller has demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance rigorous legal advocacy with the sensitivity often required in international and post-conviction cases. His work frequently touches lives in deeply personal ways—whether helping a foreign diplomat avoid improper legal entanglement or guiding an incarcerated individual toward the hope of freedom. This dual capacity to navigate both the intellectual and human dimensions of legal disputes is a defining feature of his practice. He treats each case not as just a legal challenge, but as a real-life story with stakes that demand both legal brilliance and personal care.
His proficiency in French, Italian, and Spanish has proven to be more than a convenience—it’s a valuable asset in a field where cross-border communication, foreign legal documents, and international diplomacy play critical roles. In cases involving evidence or testimony originating outside the United States, Mr. Haller can engage directly with clients, officials, or legal professionals without the delays or inaccuracies that often come with translation. This multilingual ability enhances not only the efficiency of his practice but also the accuracy and depth of his legal strategy, especially in litigation where the precise meaning of foreign statutes or correspondence can be decisive.
Mr. Haller’s standing in the legal community is reinforced by his affiliations with prestigious professional bodies such as the American Bar Association and the American Society of International Law. Through these networks, he maintains a dialogue with scholars, judges, and fellow practitioners who are shaping the future of the law. His involvement ensures he remains informed about both the theoretical developments and the practical shifts in legal interpretation that can influence the outcome of complex litigation. He is not merely a participant in the legal field—he is an active contributor to its advancement.
At the state level, his service on appellate panels in California’s First and Sixth Appellate Districts reflects the judiciary’s confidence in his legal judgment and advocacy. This work involves reviewing lower court rulings, identifying legal errors, and presenting arguments that not only serve his clients but also help shape California law. In the federal arena, his role on Criminal Justice Act appellate panels for multiple U.S. District Courts underscores his commitment to ensuring fair representation in even the most difficult federal criminal cases. These appointments are reserved for attorneys with the highest levels of skill and ethics, and Mr. Haller’s inclusion is a testament to his reputation.
The clients Mr. Haller serves are diverse in background and legal need, ranging from private individuals facing federal charges to foreign governments navigating U.S. litigation. Despite this diversity, all share a common interest: they seek clarity in a complex legal environment, and they find that clarity in Mr. Haller’s calm, analytical approach. His process begins with a comprehensive understanding of the facts and applicable law, followed by the construction of a tailored strategy that considers legal precedent, procedural posture, and judicial temperament. Each case is managed with the same meticulous attention to detail, whether it’s a high-profile appeal or a quiet consultation for co-counsel on an immunity issue.
His earlier years at Swanson, McNamara & Haller LLP provided the foundational experience that continues to shape his legal style. As both an associate and later a named partner, he honed his skills in white-collar defense, constitutional litigation, and complex international disputes. His successes there—such as protecting foreign nationals under the Hague Evidence Convention or achieving key evidentiary rulings in federal fraud cases—demonstrate a career-long pattern of delivering results in legally challenging environments. These formative experiences are carried forward into his solo practice, where they inform every decision and argument he crafts.
Even outside of the courtroom, Alexis Haller remains a sharp and thoughtful observer of legal and political developments, often using his free time to read, reflect, and study historical contexts that give deeper meaning to modern laws. His academic grounding in history from Princeton University enables him to interpret legal doctrines not just in isolation, but within the broader narrative of judicial evolution, societal values, and international customs. This perspective allows him to draw connections that others might miss, adding another layer of strength to his litigation strategies.
In a legal landscape that increasingly demands specialization, Mr. Haller’s practice offers something rare: a holistic command of both domestic appellate systems and international legal mechanisms. He moves effortlessly from the granular review of a trial record to high-level discussions about treaty interpretation or sovereign immunity standards. This breadth of competence makes him an invaluable resource not only for clients, but for fellow attorneys who turn to him for collaboration or strategic insight. In every role—advocate, strategist, consultant—he brings the same dedication to justice, the same respect for the law, and the same belief in the power of advocacy to change lives.
Clients seeking appellate or international representation often discover that Alexis Haller brings more than just legal expertise to their cases—he brings foresight. Before entering a courtroom or drafting a motion, Mr. Haller conducts a rigorous evaluation of the legal landscape, anticipating potential challenges from opposing counsel and identifying procedural or jurisdictional angles that could decisively influence the trajectory of the case. This proactive approach means that clients are not just reacting to developments—they’re staying ahead of them. It’s a strategy informed by years of experience, but also by Mr. Haller’s unshakable belief in preparation as the cornerstone of legal success.
In matters involving head-of-state immunity or diplomatic protection, the margin for error is virtually nonexistent. These are cases that unfold in the intersection of international law, domestic procedure, and geopolitical sensitivity. Alexis Haller understands the legal nuance as well as the broader context in which these cases exist. He has argued motions that touch upon executive branch prerogatives, sovereign consent, and the limits of judicial authority in foreign relations. His ability to persuade both trial judges and appellate panels to honor the protections afforded to foreign dignitaries has not only served his clients well, but also contributed to the integrity of international legal standards within U.S. courts.
When collaborating with other attorneys, particularly in high-stakes litigation, Mr. Haller’s role often becomes that of a legal architect. Trial counsel may turn to him to craft a dispositive motion, shape an appellate strategy, or troubleshoot an evidentiary issue that requires deep knowledge of constitutional principles. He works seamlessly with co-counsel, respecting the voice and role of the lead attorney while offering insights that can strengthen the case at critical junctures. Whether contributing behind the scenes or stepping into the spotlight, Mr. Haller consistently elevates the caliber of the legal effort.
In the field of habeas corpus, few attorneys navigate the terrain as thoroughly as Alexis Haller. Post-conviction relief is governed by complex statutory requirements, evolving Supreme Court doctrine, and strict procedural deadlines. Yet it is in these difficult, often uphill battles where Mr. Haller’s legal acumen truly shines. He carefully constructs petitions that meet the high threshold required for federal relief, marshaling both the facts of the case and constitutional law in support of claims that challenge the fairness of the original trial. In doing so, he offers clients more than legal advocacy—he offers hope, rooted in sound and persuasive argumentation.