Rafaela P.

Castells

Barred in Florida, California, and Washington, Rafaela focuses on domestic and international maritime claims, having earned a master of law in international law. She represents ship owners, cruise lines, resort operators, and other travel and hospitality industry clients in federal and state courts as well as domestic and foreign arbitrations, including matters involving the enforceability of arbitration agreements and forum selection clauses.

Rafaela has regularly handled pre-litigation investigations, litigation, appellate, and arbitration matters for companies operating in the maritime, travel, and hospitality sectors. She has also successfully defended clients against class action claims and matters involving novel communicable diseases, catastrophic injury, and death. Drawing on experience across multiple jurisdictions, she helps clients navigate disputes efficiently while managing legal and business risk.

Originally from Spain and raised in Puerto Rico, Rafaela is fluent in English and Spanish. She is also conversational in French and Italian and brings an international perspective to cross-border matters.