With more than a decade of experience in urban planning and regional policy, Raya Esmaeili brings a unique perspective to land use and real estate law. Raya’s prior career was in progressing roles at the Metropolitan Council, where she was an authority on the 2040 Comprehensive Planning Process and a sector representative for communities in Carver, Scott and Washington counties.   

As an attorney, Raya leverages her planning expertise and relationships to help clients navigate development challenges. She is particularly adept at identifying needs for comprehensive plan amendments, zoning and land use analysis, and environmental reviews. Raya brings technical acumen and collaborative skill to her work with developers and municipalities across Minnesota.

  • Mitchell Hamline School of Law (J.D., magna cum laude, 2025)
  • University of Minnesota (2011)
    • Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Master of Urban and Regional Planning
  • University of Tehran (B.A., 2009)

  • Minnesota, 2025

American Planning Association, National and Minnesota Chapters

  • City of Minneapolis Planning Commission, 2020-2022
    • President, 2021-2022
  • City of Minneapolis Capital Long-Range Improvement Committee, 2018-2020
  • American Planning Association- Minnesota Chapter
    • President, 2021-2022
    • Vice President, 2019-2020

  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certified
  • Conflict Resolution Theory and Practice Certificate- Dispute Resolution Institute at Mitchell Hamline School of Law