Alana Yakovlev

Alana Yakovlev

School of Professional Advancement

Biography

Alana Yakovlev is an accomplished trial attorney, legal analyst, and founding partner of Walk Free Law, a multistate law firm with offices throughout Florida, California, New York, and New Jersey. With nearly two decades of legal experience, her practice focuses on complex business litigation and defense, white-collar criminal defense, civil litigation, and trust and estate litigation.

An academically driven individual from an early age, Attorney Yakovlev began attending college at just 16 years old and graduated with honors. She attended the University of California, Berkeley and the University of California, Los Angeles, earning her bachelor's degree in Political Science before obtaining her Juris Doctor from New York Law School. She has received numerous academic honors and is admitted to practice law in California, New York, New Jersey, and Florida, as well as multiple United States District Courts.

Throughout her career, Attorney Yakovlev has represented clients in complex, high-stakes litigation, including nationally recognized criminal cases, sophisticated business disputes, and white-collar criminal matters. 

Before founding Walk Free Law, Attorney Yakovlev served as a trial attorney at several law firms, a legal analyst for Bloomberg, a judicial clerk for a New York Supreme Court justice, and an intern with a District Attorney's Office. She previously served as a partner at the national litigation firm Lydecker LLP and as Of Counsel to Bochner Law Firm and currently, Cooper Levenson. She continues to serve as outside general counsel to various business organizations and as of counsel to other law firms, including handling trust and estate litigation matters.
Attorney Yakovlev's professional recognitions include Super Lawyers and Rising Stars honors spanning 2013 through 2026, selection to The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and recognition among the Top 40 Under 40 trial lawyers. These distinctions reflect her professional accomplishments and dedication to the practice of law.

In addition to her litigation practice, Attorney Yakovlev has appeared frequently as a legal commentator on Court TV, Fox News, and Newsmax, providing legal analysis of prominent national and international cases.

Known for her strategic approach to litigation, Attorney Yakovlev particularly enjoys complex legal challenges and cases that require innovative thinking. She believes that effective advocacy requires not only a thorough understanding of the law but also creativity, preparation, persistence, and the willingness to challenge conventional approaches.

Beyond the courtroom, Attorney Yakovlev is deeply committed to public service and community involvement. She has served on the boards of nonprofit organizations supporting lone soldiers and individuals affected by cancer. She also maintains a commitment to pro bono representation assisting incarcerated individuals and their families. 
Attorney Yakovlev speaks fluent Spanish and Russian and has a working knowledge of Italian and Hebrew.  Her international experiences and appreciation for diverse cultures complement her multijurisdictional legal practice.
As an educator, Attorney Yakovlev is passionate about bridging the gap between legal theory and real-world practice. Drawing upon her extensive courtroom experience, she strives to inspire students to think critically, approach legal problems creatively, and develop the confidence and practical skills necessary to become effective advocates.

What is the best advice you have ever received?
“Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible!’” This advice has stayed with me throughout my life, reminding me that determination, perseverance, and a willingness to think outside the box can turn even the most daunting challenges into opportunities.

What are your favorite activities when you are not working?
When I'm not practicing law or teaching, my favorite activity is spending quality time with my husband and children. Whether we're enjoying family outings, traveling, or simply spending time together, family is always my greatest priority. I also enjoy practicing yoga, which helps me recharge, stay centered, and maintain balance in an otherwise very busy life.

What is your favorite app?
Google Translate! I spent four months living in Japan, and Google Translate quickly became my most valuable travel companion. From navigating unfamiliar neighborhoods and deciphering menus to communicating with locals, it made everyday adventures much easier. Living in Japan was an incredible cultural experience that reinforced my love of travel, languages, and exploring different parts of the world.