Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
5.0 /5.0
231 Client Reviews
Free Consultation
$0 first 60 minutes
PRO
Joseph Manuel Ruiz
Virtual Consultation Available
Free Consultation
About Joseph
Biography
I've received the designation of Super Lawyer after earning dismissals in thousands of criminal cases and trying over 350 jury trials. I'm also one of only 110 lawyers in the entire nation to earn the Lawyer-Scientist designation from the American Chemical Society. This background and technical training allows me to level the playing field for my clients. 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.
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%
22 years | 2,000 cases
Criminal Defense
35%
22 years | 1,200 cases
Personal Injury
5%
4 years | 5 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2022 2021 2020
...
+
6
Licenses
Licensed in Texas for 21 years
State: Texas
Acquired: 2004
No misconduct found
Location
Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC
1100 W. 23rd Street, Suite 220, Houston, TX, 77008
josephruizlaw.comGallery
Joseph Manuel Ruiz's Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (227)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Case Results (184)
Advocacy (94)
Recommendation (89)
Professionalism (70)
Communication Style (60)
Responsiveness (51)
Practice Area Knowledge (30)
Trustworthiness (27)
General Knowledge (26)
Character & Conduct (24)
Cost of Services (17)
Compassion (15)
Punctuality (10)
Payment Plans (5)
Free Consultations (3)
Showing 1 - 5 of 15 reviews | Compassion
Posted by Maryann | December 14, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
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...
Posted by anonymous | May 25, 2021 | Criminal Defense
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 Ca...
Joseph Ruiz
Replied last May 25, 2021Thank you so much for the kind words. Congrats again on your amazing outcome!
Posted by Keith | September 17, 2020 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
A GREAT ATTORNEY AND TRUE PROFESSIONAL
Mr.Ruiz saved my livelihood. I was facing the possibility of having my CDL license suspended and losing my income. He fought the courts/ DA and kept me informed every step of the way . Mr Ruiz showed a tremendous amount of empathy and compassion for my family and I during the entire process. When I...
Joseph Ruiz
Replied last September 17, 2020Representing you has been my honor and privilege. I love helping all clients, but when the stakes are even higher as they were for you (since you have a commercial driver's license), this victory is all the sweeter! Congratulations on getting your 2nd DWI and ALR cases both dismissed, thereby saving your CDL and ability to earn a great living! God bless you and your family.
Posted by vanessa | September 02, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Excellent lawyer
This is the first time i had ever been in any trouble and i thought looking for an attorney was going to be hard but Mr.Ruiz was the first attorney i consulted with and honestly didn't even feel the need to keep looking. Mr. Ruiz was so understanding of my situation and reassured me with the whole pr...
Joseph Ruiz
Replied last September 02, 2020Thank you for the kind words. It's been my pleasure. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Posted by Trung | August 01, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Services
Mr Ruiz, was very professional and extremely kind and understanding about the issues. Worked thoroughly to resolve all matter and got my case dismissed.
Joseph Ruiz
Replied last August 01, 2019Congrats on getting your DWI case dismissed on the eve of trial! Thank you for trusting me with your defense!
Joseph Manuel Ruiz's Lawyer Endorsements
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"One of the best around. I endorse this lawyer."
"Top notch lawyer in this field and one of the best lawyers in the state. I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."
"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."
"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!"
"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."
"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."
"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."
Cassandra Rodriguez
Immigration lawyer
James Magown
Criminal defense lawyer
Sam Serrano
Immigration lawyer
James Rubin
Criminal defense lawyer
Jacqueline Okwueze
Immigration lawyer
Jose Garcia
Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer
Matthew Elwell
Criminal defense lawyer
Roy Rolong
Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer
Harold Landreneau
Criminal defense lawyer
Judd Nemiro
Family lawyer
Russell Neumann
Criminal defense lawyer
Jennifer Carpenter
Criminal defense lawyer
Jed Silverman
Criminal defense lawyer
Abel Izaguirre
Criminal defense lawyer
Edward Casanova
Criminal defense lawyer
Jose Ceja
Criminal defense lawyer
Marcos Adrogue
Criminal defense lawyer
Mana Yegani
Immigration lawyer
Matthew Fass
Criminal defense lawyer
Anthony Lazzaro
Employment and labor lawyer
Experience
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 DefenseMember
2016 - Present
National Trial Lawyers AssociationMember
2015 - Present
College of the State Bar of TexasMember
2015 - Present
DUI Defense Lawyers AssociationMember
2011 - Present
Harris County Criminal Lawyers AssociationMember
2011 - Present
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMember
2004 - Present
State Bar of TexasMember
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
Education
2004
St. Marys University School of Law
Doctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor (J.D.)
2001
Vanderbilt University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2019
17th Top Gun DWI
Persuading Jurors to Accept a Disconnect Defense
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
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
What's the difference between a deferred disposition and a dismissal for a public intoxication charge in Texas?
27 Feb 2015
Q&A
Do I have a chance to get out of this ticket?
24 Nov 2014
Q&A
Grocery store is going to press charges for shoplifting. Sherriff said I have until Thursday to make a statement.
10 Nov 2014