Joseph Manuel Ruiz

PRO

Joseph Manuel Ruiz

5.0
231 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 21 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Houston, TX
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury

1100 W. 23rd Street, Suite 220, Houston, TX

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Joseph

Biography

Secure your future today with a trial-tested Houston DWI lawyer with over 350 jury trials, more than 1000 dismissals, and 18 years of litigation experience. Call Joseph Ruiz today to get the results you need. Watch our video to learn about our story and what drives us.

I've tried over 335 jury trials. I trust juries and they trust me. Let me fight for your future!

Entrust your DWI defense with a trial-tested and proven warrior. Free in-person consultations.

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 60%

DWI is probably the most common criminal allegation that the typical person will face. The intersection of science and law is constantly in flux, which is why I work tirelessly to stay ahead of the curve on all the changes in this specialized area of the law. By continuously learning the science and honing my skills in trial, I'm able to provide a formidable defense for my clients. I've also been able to save countless clients' driver's licenses in the process.

22 years | 2,000 cases

60%
Criminal Defense 35%

I've successfully represented clients from all walks of life, facing all types of different criminal charges. The only way to ensure that someone accused of a crime is treated fairly is to be represented by a lawyer that the prosecutors know will be willing to exercise their client's right to a jury trial. I take pride in obtaining the best possible results for my clients and in having a reputation for fighting and winning in the courtroom if necessary.

22 years | 1,200 cases

35%
Personal Injury 5%

Over the years the firm has also successfully represented individuals injured due to the negligence of others in order to help make them whole.

4 years | 5 cases

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Silver Client Champion
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating
Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2022 2021 2020
...
+ 6

Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 21 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 2004

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Location

Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC

1100 W. 23rd Street, Suite 220, Houston, TX, 77008

josephruizlaw.com

Joseph Manuel Ruiz's Reviews

5 star

(226)

4 star

(1)

3 star

(0)

2 star

(0)

1 star

(0)

Posted by anonymous | July 17, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Amazing

Mr. Ruiz is a miracle worker.. Without going into too many details , I had 5 state jail felonies and multiple misdemeanor charges that I’m not proud of and with the help of Mr. Ruiz I did not have to go to prison or be on probation.. got me time served for the 3 days of the initial arrest .. He works... very hard , is very organized and professional and is a great guy all around. I would highly recommend him to anyone

Posted by Reggie | August 12, 2023 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

DWI? Hire him now and you’ll never regret your decision.

Let’s start with the short version: •I was stopped by police in the early morning hours on a Saturday and arrested in Harris County for a first-offense DWI. •I hired Mr. Ruiz on Wednesday morning ahead of a Friday court hearing. •On Friday morning, Mr. Ruiz walked into the courtroom and used... his extensive knowledge of DWI law, resulting in my case being DISMISSED!! Bottom line: In 3 days, he had my case dismissed! More detail: Mr Ruiz is experienced—18 years of specializing in criminal defense and DWI law; his fees are very reasonable for his caliber—you won’t find a tried-and-true superstar lawyer at his rates in Harris or surrounding counties; he is a true professional who understands his clients’ stress and aims to communicate with you as needed. If you’ve never needed a lawyer of any kind before, you should know that there are lawyers who are in it for financial gain, but have little to no heart invested in what they do; that’s not Joseph Ruiz. He loves what he does, and he cares about his client’s lives and future. Hire him. You won’t regret it!

Posted by Maryann | December 14, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

2 CASES DISMISSED!

I found myself in an unfortunate situation facing a felony and a misdemeanor charge both of which were my first criminal offenses. Initially I didn’t know where to turn; so I googled Criminal Attorney Houston, Texas. I called dozens of attorney’s on the list but none of them made me feel confident th...ey could get both charges dismissed, additionally almost all wanted to charge me upwards of $25,000 or more for both cases. Thankfully I came across Mr. Joseph Ruiz! I read all his 5 star reviews of previous clients testimony and like me they faced serious charges that Mr. Ruiz was able to get dismissed! Today I write this review to add my own testimony to the list. As of today my felony and misdemeanor charges have both been DISMISSED!!!!!!! I am glad I trusted Mr. Ruiz through this process. He treated me like a human being during my unimaginable ordeal, he has restored my reputation, and has given me my life back. I am forever grateful to Mr. Ruiz. He makes it look so easy upfront, but behind closed doors he is advocating on your behalf fighting your battles in court and coming out victorious! There’s no better lawyer than Mr. Ruiz! His fees are affordable (he gave me a discount and allowed a payment plan). His service is impeccable. I can not recommend Mr. Ruiz more! Mr. Ruiz thank you for your unrelenting work ethic and for helping me get the best outcome for my cases.

Posted by Cassandra | September 23, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

A lawyer who answers his cell phone on Saturday!

I had to find an attorney for a mutual client in another state on a Saturday. I left several messages for different attorneys and was pleasantly surprised when Joe immediately called me back. He showed great professional courtesy to me as a fellow attorney as well as his new client. His performance... on the case was stellar. Of course, all cases are different, but in this instance he obtained a dismissal for the client and she didn't have to appear in court after initial appearance!

Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Knowledgeable and professional

I am proud to say Joseph Ruiz assisted me in my legal matters. He communicated every step of the way to me in a professional manner. I believe Joseph personally, went above and beyond in providing me with answers to my questions. If you are looking for a lawyer to provide you with the results you are... seeking, l highly recommend Joseph Ruiz. Thank you again for providing pristine communication and results!

See All Client Reviews

Joseph Manuel Ruiz's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Joseph
Mark Metzger III headshot
Mark Metzger

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Joseph for several years and I can say without hesitation that he is one of the most well-spoken and prepared attorneys that I know. There are not nearly as many lawyers out there who look the part, and exceed expectations. Joseph is one of those lawyers. He is also an attorney that I turn to when I have questions regarding criminal defense. I've never seen him unprepared. He's a good man and a great advocate for his clients."

Lisa Ann Londergan headshot
Lisa Londergan

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph is a top notch trial attorney. He zealously advocates for his clients and will take on any prosecutor in order to fight for justice for his client. I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer."

Sam Serrano headshot
Sam Serrano

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph is without a doubt a top-notch, high quality lawyer and knows the law very well. If you find your self needing assistance with a criminal law matter I would not hesitate to recommend Joseph Ruiz."

Harold J. Landreneau headshot
Harold Landreneau

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 18

Relationship: Co-worker

"I highly endorse and recommend Joseph Ruiz when you need representation on DWI/ DUI and Criminal Matters. He is highly knowledgeable and skilled in Criminal Procedure and Trial tactics and he leaves no stone unturned when helping people. Joseph works hard and fights each day for his clients and he will help you resolve your case in the best manner possible."

Matthew Alan Elwell headshot
Matthew Elwell

Criminal defense lawyer | May 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph is a bright, thorough, and effective advocate for his clients. Joseph recently started his own practice after working for a larger firm for many years. I'm happy for Joseph but I'm even more happy for his new clients who will only benefit from his new boutique criminal defense firm. I endorse this lawyer."

Roy Mario Rolong headshot
Roy Rolong

Criminal defense lawyer | May 02

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer. Joseph is a amazing lawyer who isn't afraid to fight hard for his clients. He does an awesome job evaluating his cases and keeps his clients informed on the status of their case. Hire Joseph if you want a honest attorney who works extremely hard for his clients."

Jonathan Pierre Lacour headshot
Jonathan Lacour

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"One of the best around. I endorse this lawyer."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Apr 15

Relationship: Other

"Top notch lawyer in this field and one of the best lawyers in the state. I endorse this lawyer."

Russell Allen Neumann headshot
Russell Neumann

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Joseph to be a thorough lawyer. He is not afraid to try a case and he is good at it. He cares about each and every client and will always do what is right."

Abel Izaguirre headshot
Abel Izaguirre

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jose Antonio Ceja headshot
Jose Ceja

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Joseph is an extremely talented trial lawyer who fights and wins for his clients on a daily basis. His knowledge, trial skills and work ethic are all top-notch. Anyone charged with any criminal offense would be lucky to have Joseph in their corner."

Mana Yegani headshot
Mana Yegani

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph is an excellent lawyer. I have seen him in trial on a DWI case and he was relentless. He gets many Not Guilty verdicts and he leaves no stone unturned when representing his clients. Anyone would be lucky to have Joseph on their side. He is one of the best. I endorse this lawyer."

Matthew Alan Fass headshot
Matthew Fass

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 13

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I strongly endorse Mr. Ruiz. I was opposing counsel on a case with him recently. He was a consummate professional throughout the entire trial. He was very knowledgeable on the law and a very effective advocate for his client. Any client who retains him will be given the diligent and zealous representation they deserve."

Anthony James Lazzaro headshot
Anthony Lazzaro

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 03

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse Joseph Ruiz. Joseph is an excellent trial attorney with an impressive track record. Joseph works diligently for his clients to obtain the best possible results. I would recommend Joseph to any person charged with a serious crime, including a DWI, drug possession, assault, prostitution, or theft crime."

William W Housley headshot
William Housley

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."

Mario Madrid headshot
Mario Madrid

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph is a diligent and hard working attorney who truly cares for his clients. Hie obtains great results as result of his preparation, thoroughness and willingness to fight. Joseph"s record includes a stellar trial record with a number of not guilty verdicts. I strongly recommend Joseph Ruiz."

Joaquin Jimenez headshot
Joaquin Jimenez

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph fights relentlessly for his clients. Even facing tough odds against the government, Joseph manages to win for his clients. Joseph also freely gave his time in assisting me when I had issues in a trial. I have no reservations in recommending Joseph Ruiz as a Criminal Defense Attorney!"

Edward C. Okwueze headshot
Edward Okwueze

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 17

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Joseph is a very pleasant person he epitomizes everything you would want to be in a criminal defense attorney. He passion, hes fight and hes commitment to seeking justice for hes clients is second to none. plain and simple hes a great lawyer."

Michael Joshua Rubin headshot
Michael Rubin

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 07

Relationship: Family member

"Mr. Ruiz's extensive criminal law experience hours in the court room are what give his clients the best odds of success. I refer all criminal law cases to Mr. Ruiz and I do so without hesitation."

Mark Ryan Thiessen headshot
Mark Thiessen

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 04

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Joseph is a top young trial lawyer. He is skilled in all types of criminal cases and is proving that he is a fearless trial warrior. Clients should absolutely hire Joseph. He is the top 5% that will fight for you and not just plead you out."

View All Endorsements
Cassandra Ann Rodriguez headshot
Cassandra Rodriguez

Immigration lawyer

James Michael Magown headshot
James Magown

Criminal defense lawyer

Sam Serrano headshot
Sam Serrano

Immigration lawyer

James Gregory Rubin headshot
James Rubin

Criminal defense lawyer

Jacqueline Okwueze headshot
Jacqueline Okwueze

Immigration lawyer

Jose R. Garcia Jr. headshot
Jose Garcia

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Matthew Alan Elwell headshot
Matthew Elwell

Criminal defense lawyer

Roy Mario Rolong headshot
Roy Rolong

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Harold J. Landreneau headshot
Harold Landreneau

Criminal defense lawyer

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Family lawyer

Russell Allen Neumann headshot
Russell Neumann

Criminal defense lawyer

Jennifer Carpenter headshot
Jennifer Carpenter

Criminal defense lawyer

Jed Ross Silverman headshot
Jed Silverman

Criminal defense lawyer

Abel Izaguirre headshot
Abel Izaguirre

Criminal defense lawyer

Edward Andres Casanova headshot
Edward Casanova

Criminal defense lawyer

Jose Antonio Ceja headshot
Jose Ceja

Criminal defense lawyer

Marcos Adolfo Adrogue headshot
Marcos Adrogue

Criminal defense lawyer

Mana Yegani headshot
Mana Yegani

Immigration lawyer

Matthew Alan Fass headshot
Matthew Fass

Criminal defense lawyer

Anthony James Lazzaro headshot
Anthony Lazzaro

Employment and labor lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

AV Rated - Preeminent, Martindale-Hubbell®

2021

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2020

Top Lawyers, Houstonia Magazine

2019

Top Lawyers, Houstonia Magazine

2019

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2018

Top Lawyers, Houstonia Magazine

2018

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association

2017

Top Lawyers, Houstonia Magazine

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2016

Top Lawyers, Houstonia Magazine

2011

Attorney of the year, Sullo & Sullo, L.L.P.

Work Experience

2016 - Present

Trial Lawyer & Owner, Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC

2006 - 2016

Trial Lawyer, Sullo & Sullo, L.L.P.

2005 - 2006

Associate, The Fredrickson Law Firm

2004 - 2005

Associate, Emmons & Jackson, PC

Associations

2021 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2016 - Present

National Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2015 - Present

College of the State Bar of Texas

Member

2015 - Present

DUI Defense Lawyers Association

Member

2011 - Present

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

Member

2011 - Present

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Member

2004 - Present

State Bar of Texas

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

.26 Blood Draw

Dismissed on trial day

State v. V.Z.

Dismissed

State v. A.C.

NOT GUILTY

State v. R.M.

Dismissed

State v. S.L.

Dismissed

State v. N.B.

Dismissed

State v. S.L.

Dismissed

State v. M.W.

Dismissed

State v. E.R.

Dismissed

State v. E.C.

Dismissed

State v. R.P.

Dismissed

State v. J.C.

Reduced from 3rd degree felony to misdemeanor

State v. J.C.

Dismissed

State v. C.D.L.

Probation and 2 Dismissals

State v. A.L.

Dismissed

State v. Y.A.

Dismissed

State v. D.M.

Dismissed

State v. J.M.

Reduced

State v. M.I.

Dismissed

State v. S.C.O.

Dismissed

State v. R.C.

Dismissed

State v. A.H.

Both Dismissed!

State v. J.O.M.

Dismissed

State v. J.S.

Dismissed

State v. G.M.

Felony reduced to misdemeanor

State v. J.R.

Dismissed

State v. C.R.

Dismissed

State v. G.C.

Dismissed

State v. J.P.

Reduced

State v. F.O.

Dismissed

State v. T.P.

Dismissed

State v. J.S.S.

Dismissed

State v. G.J.

Dismissed

State v. H.H.

Dismissed

State v. M.R.

Dismissed

State v. C.G.

Dismissed

State v. N.P.

Dismissed

State v. M.W.

Pre-Trial Diversion Granted

State v. A.A.

Dismissed

State v. E.C.

Dismissed

State v. D.Y.

Dismissed

State v. R.T.

Dismissed

State v. V.L.

Dismissed

State v. R.J.

Dismissed

State v. F.B.

Dismissed

State v. V.R.

Dismissed

State v. J.G.

Dismissed

State v. P.G.

NOT GUILTY

State v. R.B.

Dismissed

State v. E.L.

NOT GUILTY

State v. R.L.

Dismissed

State v. G.P.

Dismissed

State v. V.M.

Dismissed

State v. R.R.

Dismissed

State v. E.G.

Dismissed

State v. B.L.

Dismissed

State v. K.K

Dismissed

State v. M.F.

Dimissed

State v. H.S.

Dismissed

State v. J.V.

Dismissed

State v. E.T.

Dismissed

State v. C.O.

Dismissed

State v. S.P.

Dismissed

State v. F.E.

Dismissed

State v. P.C.

Dismissed

State. M.J.

Dismissed

State v. P.G.

Dismissed

State v. J.R.

Dismissed

State v. J.S.

Dismissed

State v. A.P.

Dismissed

State v. J.G.

Dismissed

State v. H.R.

Dismissed

State v. J.H.

NOT GUILTY

State v. D.M.

Dismissed

State v. F.B.

Dismissed

State v. P.H.

Dismissed

State v. V.D.

Dismissed

State v. J.B.

Dismissed

State v. N.S.

Dismissed

State v. W.A.

Dismissed

State v. K.L.

Dismissed

State v. O.B.

Dismissed

State v. J.S.

Dismissed

State v. G.M.

Dismissed

State v. I.T.

Dismissed

State v. L.M.

Dismissed

State v. R.N.

Dismissed

State v. H.V.

Dismissed

state v. E.R.

NOT GUILTY

State v. J.G.

Dismissed

State v. J.B.

Dismissed

State v. C.D.

Dismssed

State v. T.R.

Dismissed

State v. J.H.

Dismissed

State v. E.M.

Dismissed

State v. F.N.

Dismissed

State v. T.K.

Dismissed

State v. A.V.

Dismissed

State v. J.P.

Dismissed

State v. M.J.

Dismissed

State v. J.A.

Dismissed

State v. B.F.

Dismissed

State v. A.G.

Dismissed

State v. N.D.

Dismissed

State v. E.G.

Dismissed

State v. M.S.

Dismissed

State v. Salazar

Dismissed

State v. Mackey

Reduced to misdemeanor

State v. Nguyen

Dismissed

State v. Pratt

NOT GUILTY on assault and DISMISSED on resisting arrest

State v. Martin

Dismissed

State v. Olivares

Dismissed

State v. Owen

Dismised

State v. Edwards

Dismissed

State v. Trujillo

Dismissed

State v. Gonzalez

Dismissed

State v. Mackey

Reduced to misdemeanor

State v. Garza

Dismissed

State v. Valencia

Dismissed

State v. Ramos

Dismissed

State v. Rodriguez

Dismissed

State v. Lopez

Dismissed

State v. Vasquez

Dismissed

State v. Neal

Dismissed

State v. Maradiaga

Reduced to misdemeanor

State v. Bucheli

Dismissed

State v. Gupta

Both cases dismissed

State v. Paz

Dismissed

State v. Young

Dismissed

State v. Hogard

Dismissed

State v. Singh

Dismissed

State v. Rosas

Dismissed

State v. Wekesa

Dismissed

State v Varini

Dismissed

State v Martinez

Dismissed

State v. Hernandez

Dismissed

State v. Hightower

Dismissed during pre-trial negotiations

State v. Pereira

Dismissed prior to trial date

State v. Valverde

Dismissed

State v. Prince

Dismissed on morning of trial

State v. H.R.

Dismissed

State v. N.C.

Dismissed

State v. T.S.

Dismissed

State vs. S.W.P.

Dismissed

State v. B.H.

Not Guilty by Jury

State v. J.V.

Not Guilty by Jury

State v. B.N.

Not Guilty by Jury

State v. K.C.

Not Guilty by Jury

State v. J.G.

Not Guilty by Jury

State v. L.A.H.

Not Guilty by Jury

State v. J.W.

Not Guilty by Jury

State v. E.G.

Not Guilty by Jury

See More Legal Cases

Education

2004

St. Marys University School of Law

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

2001

Vanderbilt University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2018

12th Annual Rene Gonzalez Practical Skills Seminar

Advanced Trial Tactics

2016

Reasonable Doubt Television Show Judge grievances and police body cams

2011

Monthly CLE

Winning Trial Tactics

Publications

2019

The Defender, (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) Persuading Jurors to Accept a Disconnect Defense

2016

The Defender, (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) Less is More: Simplicity & Reasonable Doubt

2014

The Defender, (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) Prostitution Trial Tactics

Languages

Spanish

English

Activity

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Avvo Rating Levels
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