Licensed for 18 years

State TX

Acquired 2004

Status
Eligible to Practice in Texas No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Joseph Manuel Ruiz

Criminal defense Attorney at Houston, TX

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

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 they 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.

CASE DISMISSED!!

About Joseph

Learn Joseph’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

51%

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.
... Read more
500 cases
DUI and DWI

49%

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.
... Read more
750 cases

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 obtained dismissals on over 1,000 criminal cases and 1st chaired over 350 jury trials. After working on my craft at a large law firm for nearly a decade, I founded my own boutique DWI and criminal defense law firm, taking on fewer clients in order to form closer attorney-client relationships. I take pride in providing personalized, responsive customer service and obtaining the best outcomes possible for my clients. If you or a loved one are caught in the unfortunate position of being prosecuted for alleged criminal wrongdoing, call or text me today at for a free consultation. Put my nearly two decades of trial experience and reputation amongst judges and prosecutors to work for you. Please visit my website at for more information.

Awards

Client's Choice

2022 2021 2020 + 6 ...

Photos and videos

Contact Joseph

Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC

(281) 717-6520 Mobile

733 E. 12 1/2 Street

Houston, TX, 77008

josephruizlaw.com

Chat Now Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

226 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by Maryann | December 14, 2022

2 CASES DISMISSED!

Read less

Posted by anonymous | July 30, 2021

CASE DISMISSED!!

Joseph Ruiz is truly a life saver! I am a wounded warrior with PTSD and he fought to the bone to get me the best justice and verdict. DISMISSAL!! He communicated with me weekly and kept me abreast with my case the whole way through. He is very thorough in his goals and intentions to give you the best representation one could ask for. Joseph Ruiz is the BEST DWI Lawyer in Houston!

Read less

Posted by Reggie | August 12, 2023

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!

Read less

Posted by Cassandra | September 23, 2022

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!

Read less

Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2022

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!

Read less

Posted by anonymous | July 2, 2022

Highly recommend Joseph Ruiz

I was arrested and charged with my 1st (and last!) DWI earlier this year. I researched and consulted with several reputable attorneys and ultimately hired Joseph Ruiz due to his extensive experience, assured demeanor, and concise communication. I've been racked with fear and trepidation regarding the outcome of my case and its impact on my record and career. Mr. Ruiz kept me informed throughout the whole process and was able to negotiate a deferred adjudication on a charge of obstruction of a public highway rather than a DWI. I’m pleased with the outcome of my case and highly recommend Mr. Ruiz for others who may be facing their own dark night of the soul.

Read less

Response from Joseph Ruiz July 9, 2022

Congratulations on your fantastic outcome and thanks for being an active participant in the process from start to finish. I couldn't be happier to get a great result for such a nice person. I wish you continued success in your career. I know you're going to help a lot of people!

Posted by anonymous | January 5, 2022

Best Lawyer to fight for you

Mr. Ruiz managed my DUI case and got it dismissed like a champ!!! When I got pulled over and was subjected to the procedure, it built a lot of nervousness, anxiety and fear. I talked to a few law firms and found Mr. Ruiz as extremely knowledgeable and best in class. Mr. Ruiz walked me through the case with his approach and got me comfortable. He was responsive 100 % of the time when I texted or called. He was very professional in the dealings and kept me in the loop on progress of my case. I would highly recommend Mr. Joseph Ruiz to fight for you.

Read less

Posted by Cannon | November 17, 2021

Case Dismissed

Before contacting Mr. Ruiz I had no idea what the outcome of my case would be. He made sure I understood everything that was going on throughout the entire legal process and was easy to reach whenever I had questions. Most importantly, Mr. Ruiz turned what should have been a guilty verdict into a case dismissal. His hard and honest work is greatly appreciated !

Read less

Posted by anonymous | July 30, 2021

CASE DISMISSED

Read less

Response from Joseph Ruiz August 2, 2021

Thanks for the kind words and congratulations on your outstanding and well-deserved outcome!

Posted by anonymous | July 11, 2021

Traffic

I highly recommend Joseph Ruiz, he helped me so much with my case and kept me updated throughout the process until everything was taken care of. He always responded to my calls and was available to speak to me.

Response from Joseph Ruiz July 21, 2021

It's my pleasure to be of service. Thank you for endorsing my law firm.

Posted by anonymous | June 2, 2021

Thank You For Everything!!

I was arrested in October for Evading and even though I felt like I lost everything Mr.Ruiz came through for me and made a deal with the court that lets me enjoy life once again.

Response from Joseph Ruiz June 8, 2021

They were coming hard for prison time, but not on my watch. Congrats on the great outcome!

Posted by anonymous | May 25, 2021

Highly recommend Joseph Ruiz

Joseph was very thorough in everything he did. He kept us informed, answered all our questions and took care of our situation. He did not sugar coat anything. Great guy and his assistant Yuri is great too. Highly recommend him!!!

Response from Joseph Ruiz June 2, 2021

Thanks for your endorsement. I wish you all the best with your future endeavors.

Posted by anonymous | May 10, 2021

Felony (3rd) DWI Case

I would highly recommend The Joseph Ruiz Law Firm for any criminal defense especially DWI cases. I was recommended to this particular law firm from highly top ranked law firms in the Harris County just because they couldn't travel outside Harris County Lines. Joseph Ruiz Law Firm took my (3rd) DWI Case even though my BAC was .29 & I was looking at 4 Years in prison with 2 prior DWI's a 3rd being a felony. My attorney fought for me & my family never losing visual of the importance this meant to the well being of my families' future & my work status! After examining all the evidence & cross examining officers the County had no choice but to order a DISMISSAL of my case. NEVER GIVE UP! I feel my attorney did his best & is more than knowledgeable of all the new cases & laws in present time to help anyone win their own case!

Read less

Response from Joseph Ruiz May 25, 2021

Thank you so much for the kind words. Congrats again on your amazing outcome!

Posted by Ignacio | April 8, 2021

Highly Recommend

Mr. Joseph Ruiz helped me so much with his expert advice and knowledge. I was relieved and felt confident in every step of my case. Very good communicator either by email or phone calls. I would highly recommend Mr. Ruiz.

Response from Joseph Ruiz April 26, 2021

Thank you for recommending my law firm!

Posted by Maria | March 30, 2021

Best attorney

Joseph is an excelent attorney, very helpful and gives great results i was very satisfied with the result on my case he is a very attentive person you can trust him

Response from Joseph Ruiz April 8, 2021

Thanks for endorsing my firm! I truly enjoy representing, and obtaining great results for, the people of Texas one client at a time.

Posted by Stephanie | March 12, 2021

Hire Him!

After contacting numerous attorneys in the area regarding a fairly new law for sealing a past conviction and being told I had no chance, I am so glad I found Joseph Ruiz! He was immensely knowledgable, answered the phone himself, and was extremely patient in answering all of my questions. Not only was he informed and up to date with the latest Texas laws, other attorneys deemed my case impossible and Joseph was confident with his knowledge of Texas law. Not only was my trial date set within the month, I WON MY CASE! I cannot recommend him enough, hire him!

Read less

Response from Joseph Ruiz March 14, 2021

When someone says it can't be done, I try to figure out how to prove them wrong. I'm glad I was able to do that in your case and I wish you all the best!

Posted by Kyle | March 5, 2021

DUI Dismissed and Expunged via PreTrial Intervention Program

Mr. Ruiz is excellent to work with. I have a 100% success rate with him as my counsel. 11/10 - Would recommend.

Response from Joseph Ruiz March 12, 2021

Thanks for the kind review, sir. It's been my pleasure to be of assistance. Good luck with everything!

Posted by Mario Acosta | February 9, 2021

Great Atorrney

Excellent !! Job would recommend him..100 % he did a great job with my dwi case

Posted by Carlos | October 27, 2020

Racing charge

I contacted Joseph for my misdemeanor case which was a racing on highway charge. As soon as we got off the phone he started the process of getting this case dismissed. Joseph was very fast with the process and in a matter of no time he had my case dismissed. Joseph made my case very easy to deal with, I definitely recommend him, I will definitely use him for any issues I have in the future. He was very professional and alert of my case. I appreciate Joseph’s work and I’m glad I was able to work with him.

Read less

Response from Joseph Ruiz October 28, 2020

Congratulations on your dismissal and good luck with all your future plans! I look forward to also getting this case expunged from your record.

Posted by anonymous | October 21, 2020

Excellent Criminal Justice Attorney

Attorney Ruiz is a great criminal justice lawyer who is very professional. He has great communication skills, easy to talk to, and makes the process less stressful. He did not disappoint or underachieve by any means. He guided me through the process and we got my case dismissed. I would highly recommend to family and friends.

Response from Joseph Ruiz October 22, 2020

Congratulations on your fantastic outcome!

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Trial Lawyer & Owner
Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC
2016 - Present

Trial Lawyer
Sullo & Sullo, L.L.P.
2006 - 2016

Associate
The Fredrickson Law Firm
2005 - 2006

Associate
Emmons & Jackson, PC
2004 - 2005

View all work experience

Education

St. Marys University School of Law
Doctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor (J.D.)
2004

Vanderbilt University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
2001

Legal Cases

.26 Blood Draw
Dismissed on trial day

State v. V.Z.
Dismissed

State v. A.C.
NOT GUILTY

View all legal cases

Associations

National College of DUI Defense
Member
2021 - Present

National Trial Lawyers Association
Member
2016 - Present

College of the State Bar of Texas
Member
2015 - Present

DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Member
2015 - Present

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association
Member
2011 - Present

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Member
2011 - Present

State Bar of Texas
Member
2004 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

Spanish

English

Honors and Awards

AV Rated - Preeminent
Martindale-Hubbell®
2021

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2021

Top Lawyers
Houstonia Magazine
2020

Top Lawyers
Houstonia Magazine
2019

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers Association
2019

Top Lawyers
Houstonia Magazine
2018

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers Association
2018

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers Association
2017

Top Lawyers
Houstonia Magazine
2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2016

Top Lawyers
Houstonia Magazine
2016

Attorney of the year
Sullo & Sullo, L.L.P.
2011

View all awards

Publications

The Defender, (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association)
Persuading Jurors to Accept a Disconnect Defense
2019

The Defender, (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association)
Less is More: Simplicity & Reasonable Doubt
2016

The Defender, (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association)
Prostitution Trial Tactics
2014

Speaking Engagements

17th Top Gun DWI
Persuading Jurors to Accept a Disconnect Defense
2019

12th Annual Rene Gonzalez Practical Skills Seminar
Advanced Trial Tactics
2018

Reasonable Doubt Television Show
Judge grievances and police body cams
2016

Monthly CLE
Winning Trial Tactics
2011

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (22)

Given (30)

Endorse Joseph

Mark Metzger

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Londergan

Criminal defense Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Landreneau

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Elwell

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Rolong

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Lacour

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Judd Nemiro

Unknown Attorney | Apr 15
Relationship: Other

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

Russell Neumann

Criminal defense Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jose Ceja

Criminal defense Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Fass

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Lazzaro

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Housley

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Mario Madrid

Criminal defense Attorney | 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

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Okwueze

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Rubin

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 Thiessen

Criminal defense Attorney | 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 more endorsements