About Joseph Manuel

Joseph Manuel Ruiz practices criminal law in Houston, Texas. He is the founder of the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, where he focuses on a variety of criminal defense matters. His primary areas of practice include DUI and DWI offenses, domestic violence cases, and white collar crime. With a commitment to defending the rights of his clients, he navigates the details of the Texas legal system with skill and determination. He earned his Juris Doctor from St. Mary’s University School of Law in 2004.

Prior to that, he graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 1997. His educational background provides him with a unique perspective on the psychological aspects of criminal behavior, which he often applies in his practice. This foundation has proven invaluable in understanding the motivations and circumstances that lead individuals into legal trouble. Since beginning his legal career, he has accumulated significant experience in the field. He worked as an associate lawyer in various capacities starting in 2005, before becoming a managing trial lawyer in 2016. His experience in trial settings has equipped him to handle cases effectively, whether negotiating plea deals or representing clients in court.

Most of his cases involve defending individuals against serious charges, where the stakes are high and the consequences can be life-altering. His active membership in several legal associations reflects his dedication to ongoing education and professional development. He is a member of the National College of DUI Defense and the National Trial Lawyers Association, among others. These affiliations keep him informed about the latest developments in criminal law and provide him with valuable resources to better serve his clients. He also participates in local organizations such as the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association and the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, further establishing his presence in the legal community. Cases typically involve navigating various legal stages, from initial consultations to trial proceedings.

He approaches each case with a understanding of the law and a strategic mindset. His clients appreciate his straightforward communication style and his ability to explain complex legal concepts in an accessible manner. He is known for his tenacity in the courtroom and his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for those he represents. In addition to his legal practice, he is involved in community outreach initiatives aimed at educating the public about their rights and the legal process. He believes that informed citizens are better equipped to navigate the criminal justice system. As he continues to build his practice, Joseph Manuel Ruiz remains focused on providing high-quality legal representation to individuals facing criminal charges in Texas.

Education

St. Mary s University School of Law

Doctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor (J.D.)

2004

Vanderbilt University

B.A. (2001) | Psychology

1997

Languages

English (Spoken, Written) Spanish (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Managing has membership/Trial Lawyer

Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC
2016

Associate Lawyer

Sullo & Sullo, LLP
2006

Associate Lawyer

The Fredrickson Law Office
2005

Associate Lawyer

Emmons & Jackson, PC
2005

Accepted Jurisdictions

Texas

Court Admissions

Texas State Courts State Trial Court

Types of Cases Handled

Criminal Law DUI & DWI Domestic Violence White Collar Crime

Legal Services Scope

Initial consultations Trial proceedings

Professional Associations

National College of DUI Defense

has membership 2021 - Current

National Trial Lawyers Association

has membership 2016 - Current

College of the State Bar of Texas

has membership 2015 - Current

DUI Defense Lawyers Association

has membership 2015 - Current

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

has membership 2011 - Current

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

has membership 2011 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 733 E 12th 1/2 St Houston TX 77008

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