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Javier Demetrio Rios

Criminal defense Attorney at San Jose, CA

4.9   38 reviews

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About Javier

Learn Javier’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    45%
    If a Santa Clara County Prosecutor can charge it, I can defend against it. There is always something Mr. Rios can do to make the case better. Sometimes that involves going to trial; sometimes that involves working out a settled disposition.

    35 years

  2. DUI and DWI
    15%
    Mr. Rios has tried many DUI cases, everything from first time misdemeanor DUI to Double Murder DUI. He is highly qualified to negotiate a settlement and just as able to take it to trial.

    35 years

  3. Domestic violence
    11%
    Javier Rios has represented hundreds of people for domestic violence: felony, misdemeanor, homicide, injuries, no injuries, cooperative witnesses, uncooperative witnesses. He has also won this type of case in jury trial.

    35 years

  4. Sex crime
    11%
    Mr. Rios has represented many people for rape, child molest, solicitation, child pornography and other sex charges. He has favorably settled many such cases. He has taken many sex cases to trial. Some of his not guilty verdicts were for cases involving the accusation of rape and child molest.

    33 years

  5. Violent crime
    11%
    VIOLENT CRIMES & HOMICIDE Javier Rios has extensive trial experience in just about any kind of violent charge a county prosecutor can charge. Mr. Rios has worked out beneficial settlements and also tried many cases involving everything from misdemeanor battery to torture murder. Some of his biggest victories involved accusations of violence.

    35 years

  6. Child abuse
    1%

    35 years

  7. Credit card fraud
    1%
    THEFT CHARGES Mr. Rios has been handling theft charges since 1988, everything from alleged shoplifts at Macy’s to complicated employee embezzlement accusations. If you need an experienced attorney to advise you and defend your rights then consider contacting Javier Rios. Remember, you are presumed innocent. That’s the law.

    35 years

  8. Expungement
    1%

    8 years

  9. Identity theft
    1%

    33 years

  10. Insurance fraud
    1%
    THEFT CHARGES Mr. Rios has been handling theft charges since 1988, everything from alleged shoplifts at Macy’s to complicated employee embezzlement accusations. If you need an experienced attorney to advise you and defend your rights then consider contacting Javier Rios. Remember, you are presumed innocent. That’s the law.

    33 years

  11. State, local, and municipal law
    1%

    35 years

  12. White collar crime
    1%
    THEFT CHARGES Mr. Rios has been handling theft charges since 1988, everything from alleged shoplifts at Macy’s to complicated employee embezzlement accusations. If you need an experienced attorney to advise you and defend your rights then consider contacting Javier Rios. Remember, you are presumed innocent. That’s the law.

    33 years

Award winning attorney

Over 25 Years Experience

Some of my work has been featured on the San Jose Mercury News Front Page,

 

First office consultation is always free. Call me right now. You have nothing to lose in speaking with me.   Give me a call, a text or email.  If I can help, I will.

 

Sucessfully tried cases involving DUI, murder, rape, child molest, domestic violence as well as other types of criminal cases. I have also reached many favorable settlements on cases that did not go to trial.

 

I only handle criminal cases.

 

I know and have known many Santa Clara County  judges and prosecutors for many years. I have a solid reputation in the legal community. In this business credibility counts for a lot.

 

No case is beyond hope.  I can help a client with any kind of criminal case  that a county prosecutor can charge.

 

 

I practice law in Santa Clara County (The courts in San Jose, Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, and Morgan Hill).

 

I work very hard and I tell it straight, no gimmicks.

 

I also have years of experience in dealing with the mentally ill. 

 

When I address a jury, I believe in my cause, my case and I believe the jury will do the right thing.   

 

 It is a high honor to represent someone in court and my work reflects that. 

Licensed for 35 years
State CA
Status Active
Acquired 1987
Updated 12/03/2022

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

Contact Javier

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Javier Rios, San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney
1010 West Taylor Street
San Jose, CA, 95126

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  38 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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3%
Posted by anonymous | April 23, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Highly Experienced
HIGHLY QUALIFIED Very Experienced Works hard Knows the local courts Easy to communicate with
Posted by Jeff | August 31, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Extremely knowledgeable and compassionate!
I feel really lucky to have stumbled across Javier while looking for lawyers for a bad DUI case. He helped me get the ball rolling on what I needed to do to help my chances at a more favorable outcome. He was very straight forward with me about what he could possibly do for me given the case and didn't try to sell me any fantasies. Very easy to talk to and listens to your whole story. Kept me up to date at every step and was able to reach him at any time with near immediate responses. In the end we were able to get the best possible outcome and I am extremely grateful for all of his help.
Read less
Posted by Yuan | February 19, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Javier Rios is the best!
I secured a huge victory in my domestic violence case, all because of Javier's excellent work. For my case initially I worked with a lawyer who tried to rob me bailout fees where in fact I was released without a bail. After that I did a lot of research online and was fortunate to have chosen Javier as my lawyer. Javier is very responsive, transparent, and provides me every pieces of information I need in order to make informed decisions.
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Posted by Irfan | February 19, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Above and beyond, and exceptional is a great description.
I did nowhere near expect the level of engagement, professionalism and responsiveness I received from Mr. Rios. I hope to never need the services again, but if I ever do Mr. Rios will always be my first choice. Thank you for everything you have done!! I recommend you and your exceptional services to anyone.
Posted by Wanyi W | February 5, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional, Informative, and Effective
Javier was hired on my case in 2020. He is very knowledgeable about all kinds of situations of Domestic Violence cases so that he gives me very clear instructions to gather paperwork and resources. Javier is very responsive. He always responded immediately to either my text, calls or email and was proactive in helping me get my case resolved. He was able to get details from the court for me that helped move my case along faster than I would have done myself. He informed every step of the way until the task was completed. Our communication was always smooth and professional. I would definitely recommend the individual that needs help with their legal issues to use Mr. Javier! He is also bi-language that can speak Spanish very well. Thank you so much for your support! Hope you all the best.
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Posted by anonymous | January 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the best!!
Mr Rios is so amazing. I dont know how to say it but this attorney helped me stand on my feet from out of nowhere. He is very helpful , understanding , patient and most of all can answer any questions , and query that i have. Thank you so much Mr Rios without you i dont know what to do. I will definitely recommend him.  
Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you sir.
Javier Rios represented me in a very serious child molest case. It was a bogus accusation. But I know that the court wants to “believe the kid” no matter how crazy the accusation. I met him and he impressed me with all of his experience in sex cases. He has an impressive record of wins in very difficult sex cases. I signed him up. He was not cheap. But I did not want cheap. I wanted the best. Well, he won my case. That’s right, dismissed, all gone, in the win column. I and my family will forever be grateful to Mr. Rios for his dedication and skill. I saw him cross examine the accuser and he is one highly skilled trial attorney. It sure helped me get justice when I really thought my world was over. Thank you sir.
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Posted by anonymous | August 30, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
One of the Best
I would advise anyone who find themselves in a situation to call this lawyer 1st. He is the real deal. Very knowledgeable attorney. I thank him for all he has done for us. PAA
Posted by Dave | July 30, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very knowledgeable and helpful!
Very knowledgeable about potential scenarios, what prosecutor will need, what can happen in my case, what I should do vs not. I had someone extorting me and the attorney advised me on how to approach. Excellent consultation!
Posted by anonymous | May 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Javier gets it done!!
Javier took my initial call and spent easily an hour and some listening to the details of my impending case. He did this without a hard-sell to hire him, was willing to talk to the cops for me, and put me at ease instantly. After having such a positive first impression of him on this call, I hired him. During the entire time—which was a waiting game with the courts—he proved himself to be patient, clear and honest, direct and encouraging, and in the end a success. This guy has a load of experience and a huge heart as well. It would do you well to hire him without a second thought. I highly recommend Javier without any reservations.
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Posted by anonymous | April 26, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Hire Mr. Rios!
Mr. Rios was very accommodating and generous with his time during our consolation. He answered all my questions, address my concerns and provided excellent advice. Even though my case was in the early stages, I wanted another opinion and find out his perspective on my situation. He is very honest, straight forward, NOT looking to take your money, but rather to genuinely help you. I highly recommend hiring him for any type of criminal case.
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Posted by Kevin Peterson | April 23, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
I give Mr. Javier 5 stars because he is a most fine attorney. We are most pleased with his work. We also like him as a person.
Posted by anonymous | September 22, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Experienced and knowledgeable...
Javier was initially contacted for a consultation on a legal case. He was attentive, professional, knowledgeable in criminal law, and addressed our concerns. Javier will definitely be our choice for defense in the future.
Posted by anonymous | September 15, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
All my questions answered with a call!
Javier was extremely helpful. Even though I am in San Bernardino County he was able to answer all my questions and concerns. Very genuine person and was happy to help me. He guided me through the full process of how to proceed with my case. Would definitely recommend him if you are in his area!
Posted by Raj | September 13, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent service noble man, helped me without even charging me
Javier is not only and excellent, intelligent, knowledgable lawyer but a man hat supports the community without any selfish motives. I called him up to get a consult and thought I probably couldn't get my questions answered unless I pay him. But he actually answered all of my questions in as much detail he could possibly do without charging me anything for his time and precious advice ( legal information related to my matter). I really think we need more lawyers and even more professionals in general with this type of noble attitude. Everything Javier advised me of and warned me of related to my case was true and accurate. Most lawyers I consulted did not know enough to help me with my case but Javier knew the matters pertaining to my case and his systematics and thoughtful reasoning process allowed him to give me very valuable and accurate advice. He is honest and upfront. He is always looking in the best interest of his client without any intention to harm anyone for any personal benefit. Good lawyers these days are not dime a dozen and I am confidentially say that Javier is one the best attorneys I have met throughout the many I have talked to and worked with. If you want an intelligent and experienced, yet also humble and noble lawyer, Javier is the one to go to. And if Javier doesn't know about soenthing or is not his expertise, he will tell you honestly he doesn't know and help you get referred to someone well versed in that area. He is a loyal person, very good attorney and will guide you in the right direction at the very least !
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Posted by Jose | September 7, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Looking ahead
Had a a great talk really helpful awsome guy... Really trying to help..
Posted by anonymous | September 2, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Exellent
Answered all my question, really easy to talk to and freindly. I reccomend him
Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Accomodating and Honest
It was exactly what I need to know. It was direct on point guidance. Got to know the value of less is better in a really positive way and for this I am thankful.
Posted by anonymous | August 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Lawyer
I am a financially secure older gentleman. I met a "sugar baby", who at one point decided she wanted to extort me for money by filing a rape charge against me. Since this was such a serious accusation, I immediately hired Javier Rios as my lawyer. Javier was great!.. not only was he personable and friendly, but he was very savvy and experienced in this area. He was able to meet with me the day I first called. He listened to my situation, and answered all my questions. He gave me expert advice on how to move forward. He explained the possible outcomes, and courses of action to take. He had me gather information to help support my case. After only a couple of meetings with Javier, he was able provide enough information to the DA, to get my case dismissed before any cyharges were filed. I would definitely recommend Javier Rios as an attorney to anyone in a similar situation.
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Response from Javier Rios August 5, 2017
This client was a pleasure to work with. Together, we helped the DA see that filing charges would be a mistake. I believe this fellow was innocent and I'm glad that he did not have see these accusations turn into criminal charges in a criminal court room.
Posted by anonymous | April 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thanks
Mr. Rios went the extra mile, combing through the law, working late, talking to me on weekends, to find for me a solution to my predicament. Thanks to the to his dedication and tenacity we were able to get a fine result.
Response from Javier Rios April 3, 2017
I was happy work work on this person's case. But it was not just me that worked hard; this client also worked hard. We were a good team and that is the way it should always be with an attorney and client. --Jav
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Deputy Public Defender
  • Santa Clara County Public Defender
  • 1988 - 2015

Education

  • Univ of Michigan Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1986
  • Univ of California Berkeley
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1983

Legal Cases

  • People v. Confidential
  • All sex charges, all felonies dismissed after trial. Client settled for a misdemeanor ,no more jail, court probation with a small fine, no sex registration. I just shook hands with him and he walked out of courthouse a free man.
  • People v. Confidential
  • Jury Trial: Not Guilty all counts, client walked out of the courthouse, a free man.
  • People v. Confidential
  • Jury Trial: Not Guilty of the Felony, a Possession of Stolen Property Charge
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • California Public Defender's Association
  • Member
  • N/A

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Jose
  • Expertise.com
  • 2017
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2017
  • AV - Preeminent
  • Martindale.com Rating
  • 2017
  • America's Most Honored Professionals 2016 - Top 10%
  • Americas Most Honored
  • 2016
  • Brian R. Schechmeister Achievement Award
  • Santa Clara County Public Defender
  • 2015
  • Client Review Rating: Preeminent 4.9 out of 5
  • Martindale.com Rating
  • 2015
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • PowerPoint for Trial
  • Trial Techniques
  • 2004

Attorney endorsements

Received (15)
Given (28)
Endorse Javier
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Rios is knowledgeable, articulate, aggressive, and effective. His clients are well-served at every stage of a case."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Javier Rios is an exceptional attorney who is greatly respected by peers and clients. A client would do well to have Javier Rios in their corner."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A consummate attorney and superb advocate for his clients in and out of court."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Outstanding Attorney!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I without question endorse this lawyer. I have had the opportunity to witness his work in the courtroom. I have found him to be hardworking and very well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Javier Rios is one of the most dedicated lawyers that I know. He is always looking for creative solutions to the problems his clients face."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I've known Javier for nearly 20 years and, year after year, he distinguishes himself as a highly skilled, experienced attorney and a vigorous advocate for his clients. I have the utmost respect for him and endorse him wholeheartedly."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 09
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Jav is by far one of the most skilled advocates I have had the privilege of working with. On top of being an excellent attorney, he is also a great mentor; the skills I learned from him during law school have certainly translated into my practice, and all for my client's benefit."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Co-worker
"Javier Rios is a very talented and experienced trial lawyer. He has tried more than 150 cases. many lawyers in my office seek his advice as I have when in trial. He has the respect of the court and opposing counsel. He is extremely hard working and devoted to his clients. I highly recommend him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Javier. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 25
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly endorse Javier Rios. He's a well-know, highly respected, local criminal defense trial attorney. If you are lucky enough to get him -- as he is a public defender -- you're in very good shape. Javier fights for his clients, as evinced by his 90+ criminal jury trials. He's not scared to go to trial / will not "truck" a client to take a deal. Sincere, very smart, and meticulous -- top flight all-around."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Javier is a smart, ethical and effective advocate for his clients. He understands the law and the criminal justice system and gets the best result for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Javier Rios is one of the hardest working lawyers I have ever had the pleasure of working with. His effort on behalf of his clients is tireless. Anyone who finds themselves facing a criminal charge in Santa Clara County would be lucky to have Javier as their lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have had the opportunity to both work with Mr. Rios as co-counsel as well as have cases where we were in opposition. I have found him to be diligent, hardworking and very well respected in the legal community"
View more endorsements
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San Jose Criminal defense Lawyer Javier Demetrio Rios
Javier Demetrio Rios
Criminal defense Attorney
San Jose, CA
Licensed for 35 years