The Woodlands Criminal Defense Lawyer
Trusted The Woodlands Criminal Defense Attorney
The Woodlands Defense Attorney Who Actually Takes Cases Before a Jury
What matters most right now isn’t the charge on the page. It’s what happens with it in the next few weeks, long before anyone sees a jury. Prosecutors build their strongest position early, and so should your Woodlands criminal defense lawyer.
Texas courtrooms have seen Joseph Ruiz try more than 350 cases to a jury. He represents people facing criminal charges throughout The Woodlands and the surrounding region, and he treats a plea as the fallback, never the plan. Clients who came to him with a record on the line have left the courthouse with that record intact and their next chapter still theirs to write.
Walk us through your charge and we’ll lay out what the next 30 days might look like.
| Super Lawyers 2023-2026 | Avvo 10.0 Rating | AV Preeminent Rated | 350+ Jury Trials |
Criminal Charges We Defend Throughout The Woodlands
The charge on your paperwork rarely tells the whole story. We build your defense around the real facts of your case, not a generic script.
- DWI and DUI charges: from a first offense through felony habitual DWI, including blood and breath test cases.
- Assault and family violence: Class C disputes through felony aggravated assault.
- Drug possession and distribution: marijuana, controlled substances, and felony possession with intent to deliver.
- Theft and property crimes: shoplifting, credit card abuse, burglary, and felony theft.
- Probation and bond violations: motions to revoke and missed court date hearings.
- Record clearing: expunction and nondisclosure for eligible arrests and dismissals.
Not sure if our Woodlands criminal defense attorney can help? Contact us to learn more.
The Lasting Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
A conviction does not stay in the courtroom. It shows up on background checks for years afterward. Many employers and licensing boards ask about it directly.
A Class A misdemeanor in Texas can carry up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine under Texas Penal Code § 12.21. A felony conviction can follow you even longer, affecting jobs, housing, and where you can live.
Not every charge becomes a permanent record. Arrests that end in dismissal, no-bill, or acquittal often qualify for expunction under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55A. We walk clients through that process as soon as their case allows it.
350 Jury Trials Deep: How This Defense Gets Built
Joseph Ruiz has been licensed in Texas since 2004 (State Bar No. 24046770) and has personally tried more than 350 cases to a jury.
In 2023, he earned the Forensic Lawyer-Scientist Designation from the American Chemical Society’s Chemistry and the Law Division, a credential fewer than 120 lawyers nationwide hold. Texas Super Lawyers has selected him for Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI every year from 2023 through 2026, and Avvo rates him 10.0.
He is fluent in English and Spanish, answers his own phone on evenings and weekends, and handles every case personally rather than passing it to an associate.
A Jury Said Not Guilty. Here’s That Case
Two verdicts from Joseph Ruiz’s trial record show what a properly tried case can do.
| Outcome | Case Type |
|---|---|
| Not Guilty (2018) | Deadly Conduct, Brazoria County (Cause No. 222229) |
| Not Guilty (2019) | Dismissed Before Motion to Suppress |
Past results do not guarantee an outcome in your case, but they show what a jury can find when a case is properly tried.
FAQ’s About The Woodlands Criminal Defense Laws
Q: Will hiring a lawyer early change my outcome?
A: Yes, it can. Evidence gets stronger for the State the longer a case sits. Early steps, like requesting body camera footage, can shape everything that follows.
Q: What happens at my first court date after an arrest?
A: Your first appearance is usually a magistration hearing, not an arraignment. A judge tells you the charge, explains your rights, and sets or reviews your bond. You do not enter a plea at this hearing. Arraignment — where the charge is formally read and a plea is entered — usually happens later, especially in felony cases after an indictment.
Q: Can a charge be kept off my record?
A: It depends on how the case resolves. Charges ending in dismissal, no-bill, or acquittal are often eligible for expunction. Some others qualify for nondisclosure instead. We review your eligibility at your first meeting.
Q: Does a misdemeanor conviction really affect my job?
A: Often, yes. Background checks show misdemeanor convictions for years. That is why fighting a Class A or Class B charge matters, even when jail time is unlikely.
Q: Do you handle felony cases, or only misdemeanors?
A: Both. Joseph Ruiz has tried felony and misdemeanor cases to a jury in Texas courts for more than two decades, from first offense DWI to serious violent felonies.
Q: I was arrested in The Woodlands. Will my case be heard in Conroe?
A: Most likely, yes. Felony cases from The Woodlands go to the Montgomery County Courthouse in Conroe, where the county’s District Courts sit. Most misdemeanor cases, including a first DWI, go through the Montgomery County Courts at Law nearby. Knowing which court has your case matters — missing a court date at either building can trigger a warrant.
Q: What if I cannot afford a private attorney right now?
A: We offer payment plans so cost does not decide whether you get a real defense. Ask about options during your first call.
Contact The Woodlands Criminal Defense Lawyer Joseph Ruiz Today
Facing criminal charges in The Woodlands is overwhelming, but you do not have to do this alone. The decisions you make in the coming days will set the tone for your entire case. Let us review your charges, assess the evidence, and outline a strategic defense plan together.
Contact the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz today to schedule your free confidential consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your future.
How can we help you
To get your free consultation started, please call
281-300-8695 or fill out the form below and
we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Schedule a Consultation
Testimonials
Anytime you're in need of a lawyer obviously you're going through something challenging, trying and most of the times unexpected... The law office of Mr Ruiz seems to know this first hand. From the first…
Michael Felix
Mr. Ruiz is an excellent attorney and a wonderful person who saved my life. I got entangled in two cases(felony and misdemeanor). I was clueless how to handle the situation. Fortunately I came across Mr.…
Manju Ram
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…
Ron Anonymous
Honestly, i have relationships with lawyers that have met in the past and i had yet to meet Mr Ruiz. Im from out of town and got recommended to Mr Ruiz because my lawyer from…
Tony Torres
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…
cannon woodward
I have enjoyed Mr. Ruiz handling my husband's case. He assured me that he would not disappoint us, and he kept his word. It was a joy and peace knowing that everything would work out…
Sharon Thomas
Mr Ruiz is a fighter!!! Reduced my felony DWI down to a class B misdemeanor!! Was extremely relieved with the outcome and made the long court process go by smooth! Will definitely recommend!10 stars!!!
Junbugg Sanchez
Let me first say I am THANKFUL to have of found the right attorney to help me with my situation. There are so many attorneys out here that will give you the run around on…
Amber Rose Martinez
I highly recommend Mr.Ruiz as he is very good at what he does. He has wonderful responsiveness and he ultimately got my felony dismissed right before Christmas! Having Mr. Ruiz on my side was the…
megan reid
I STRONGLY recommend Mr. Ruiz! After being charged with my first DWI i contacted Mr. Ruiz. Mr. Ruiz would constantly keep me updated and would always go that extra mile. Although i had what seemed…
Mariano
I can't thank Joseph Ruiz enough for his professional, personal attention and care he put into a difficult situation with my son. The outcome he was able to negotiate for the case was unexpected and…
Mark G
Mr. Ruiz was very helpful and straight forward. Got my 2nd Dwi case dismissed. Definitely will be recommending him to anyone that needs a lawyer for this or similar situations.
Jaime Moncivais
First class service from start to finish (dismissal). Excellent communication and knowledge put my mind at ease during the process. Joseph Ruiz deserves his excellent reputation!
Carl Emery
I highly recommend Mr. Ruiz! I'm extremely thankful to have had Mr. Ruiz representing me. I am very pleased with the outcome of his hard work and turning a felony into a misdemeanor. Thank you…
C Gonzalez
The process for my case was extremely smooth from beginning to end. All of my questions where answered, constant communication throughout every step. I am very grateful that I chose to work with Joseph Ruiz.
carmen damian
Best lawyer in town hands down! He will get you the best result possible while keeping you well informed on every possible outcome and decision. Highly recommended!
Emmanuel Opara
I would highly recommend Mr. Ruiz to anyone, he is a very good at what he does and definitely proved himself to be someone you want on your side representing your case. When I came…
Julian Quintanilla
I want to take the time and give my full appreciation and thank you to Attorney Joseph Ruiz. Being my first time offense I was lost in who to trust to represent my case. I…
luis Mondragon
I just want to thank The Joseph Ruiz Law Firm for taking my case even though it stepped over the county line. I reached out to this particular law firm by recommendations from several Harris…
Santiago Vazquez
Joseph just got my case dismissed today. Thank you for your helps. We would highly recommend Joseph to our friends and family members if they are in need of a lawyer.
Loc H
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…
Sharea North
At a time of difficultly when your faced with a family member charged with a 1st offense. You never know which attorney you can trust with the life of your family member who is young…
Patricia Herrero
Mr Ruiz is the best criminal defense Attorney. Hands down no doubt. If you have any criminal charges you facing please refer to the law office of Joseph Ruiz because your case is in good…
Umoru Inu umoru
A very compassionate and detail oriented lawyer. Mr. Ruiz was able to fight and beat my case in a timely manner. Mr. Ruiz is someone who was with me the whole process, his communication set…
mostafa hadab
I was so stressed out about my case, it took me a couple months after my first court date to find a good lawyer plus with money wise and he accepts monthly plans! He did…
Vanessa Escalante
I am very appreciative of Mr. Ruiz’s professionalism, knowledge an experience. He will instill confidence in you immediately upon meeting with him. Communication with him is excellent and he is great at explaining processes with…
Brian Hinkle
Joseph Ruiz is an exceptional attorney. He is professional, courteous, diligent, and experienced. He knows the law, and he treats his clients with respect and dignity. When you hire Joseph, you can trust you will…
Drew Prisner
Best decision I have ever done was hire Mr. Ruiz. He was able to get me a dismissal on an assault charge with a previous conviction. He gave me his cell phone number since day…
Ricky Rodriguez
Knowledgeable, methodical, concise, ... Mr. Ruiz is by far THE most effective and professional attorney I have ever dealt with. He handles his cases all by himself and will not forget about you. Mine took…
JESSE CARMICHAEL
Hire him! After contacting numerous attorneys in the area regarding a fairly new law, and being told I had no chance, I am so glad I found Joseph Ruiz! He was immensely knowledgable, answered the…
Natalie Alanis
Hire Mr. Ruiz he is a very professional and an amazing lawyer. After catching a dwi charge I was very worried especially about my status because I was a permanent resident at the time but…
Glody Mawana
Joseph Ruiz is an extremely knowledgeable and professional lawyer. He makes sure you get personalized one on one service and is someone you can entrust with your case. He went above and beyond for me.…
Kristina Rose Pretzsch
Mr. Ruiz is an exceptional attorney and is amazing at his job. I cannot have been more pleased with the results. He helped me get my DWI case dismissed during pre trial! I never even…
Cesar
Joseph is not only extremely knowledgeable on all aspects of criminal law, but he is fearless in fighting for his clients. He is an excellent attorney committed to providing the highest quality of representation to…
Jacqueline Michel
Joseph Ruiz is one of the best DWI & Criminal defense attorney! He really cares about his clients and goes the extra mile. If you are ever in trouble with a criminal case Joseph is…
Roy Rolong
I worked with Joseph Ruiz for close to a decade. His office was next to mine. I witnessed him work late nights and long hours going over videos and reports and other evidence in preparation…
H. King
I have to say that Mr. Ruiz was recommended to me from a friend. I also to the time to check out his record. I was very impressed. Mr. Ruiz is very straightforward and is…
Tim Mccray
Amazing attorney! Would recommend him in a heartbeat. He is thorough, extremely knowledgeable, cautious, and patient. He cares for his client and fully engages his efforts in your case. Do not hesitate in contracting his…
Adriana Rubin
Joseph Ruiz explained very well my options each court date. He always gave me his opinion on what was best. Most of all what I enjoyed was the great communication he provided. There was no…
Andy Arroyo
Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value I’d highly recommend Mr. Ruiz! He’s very professional and takes care of his clients. I didn’t see my way out of my situation at first but he definitely kept everything…
Jesus Munoz
Joseph is one of the hardest working attorneys I have ever had the pleasure of coming across. He is diligent in his work ethic and is one of the finest trial lawyers that I have…
Tej Paranjpe
I got into a situation where I had two DWI cases pending at the same time. Mr Ruiz dismissed both of them in a period of 3 months. He kept me updated with what’s going…
Miguel Martinez
I recommend 100% to all people who need the services of a lawyer for their excellent professionalism. My family and I are very grateful for having him defend our case. Do not hesitate to contact…
Carlos Manuel Valdivie
I couldn’t be any happier than to have been found NOT GUILTY at the Brazoria County court house after Mr. Ruiz had my case for 2 years. Mr. Ruiz was very professional and could not…
Adrian Cardenas
You’re such a brilliant lawyer. Thank for helping me through this tough time and aiding a new beginning of my life I am so grateful for your passion, dedication, and professionalism. You are truly the…
MustaFa Khan
Mr. Ruiz is extremely professional and will handle case with skill and efficiency. His guidance and advise are trusted and reliable. His personality is calming and assuring.
Ola Olaleye
If you are looking for an honest attorney who will truly fight for you and do what is in your best interest, I recommend you hire Joseph Ruiz. I referred a person to him who…
Diana Perez
I can't say enough about Joseph Ruiz! Not only was he helpful and super informative about the possible outcomes of my case, but I was able to call him after hours about any concerns or…
Liberate Your Mind
Joseph has a well-earned reputation as one of the best criminal defense attorneys in town. He knows the law inside and out and fights for his clients. As a result, I've seen him get excellent…
José Ceja
Joseph Ruiz was extremely diligent and knowledgeable of the law pertaining to my case. Mr. Ruiz was able to have my DWI case dismissed as well as winning my ALR hearing. Saving me from having…
Skaught Yourke
Joseph was there for me during one of the scariest times of my life. He has been reassuring, confident, efficient and did what he said he was going to do, however, he never over promised.…
Omar Naboulsi
The man of the Hour. Joseph Ruiz did exactly what he had promised me. Got my case dismissed. Very thankful and greatfull to have hired him as my attorney. Definitely
Joe “P” Varghese
Mr Ruiz is elequent, understanding swift and knowledgable. He has a calming presence in the midst of the courtroom circus. He helped me get a dismissal with case that could have gone much worse without…
micah Rideout
100% totally trust this guy. The best attorney around and will not stop fighting for you. Not a plea deal kind of guy. I recommend him to any and all who are in need of…
Adam V
After running into some trouble and finding Joseph through his great Google reviews I hired him. I am so pleased with the outcome, he made the process easy and breezy for such a horrible time…
Frankie Trevizo
Joseph has helped two of my uncles from both sides of my family through some tough times. One uncle was on his second or third offense in Harris County and was looking at serious jail…
rey davila
I would recommend Joseph to anyone because he is very professional and fair and simply gets you the outcome you not only want, but deserve. He was reachable and available whenever i needed to talk…
Roger JnMarie
Got A DWI dismissed thanks to Joseph's help. From pre-trial intervention program that I was getting first and then to a full DWI conviction, my case got dismissed! It feels really good. Joseph is an…
Chris R
I have no words to describe the outsatnding work of Mr Josehp Ruiz. No only he got my case Dismissed but he made the process easy and confident enough so I would'nt loose my sleep…
Carlos Osorio
Great lawyer ! Great results ! Very professional always kept me updated on my case, genuinely cares about clients. Definitely recommend!
Alexis Zavala
Mr. Joseph Ruiz has represented my son in several occasions and he has gotten almost all of them dismissed. I highly recommend Mr. Joseph Ruiz to any one in need of a great and sharp…
Petro One
Mr Ruiz is so awesome he was recommended by my friend I fired my lawyer and hire him and don't regret it at all he is so encouraging I was very worried about my case…
Lisa Hamilton
My family and I are very grateful for having him defend my brother's case. Not at all Heroes wear capes, some wear suits. My family and I can't thank him enough. I just wish him…
Eduardo Miranda
Mr. Ruiz was very informative and kept me updated on the whole process. He made the whole ordeal as easy and painless as possible.
Jose Quintana
Best lawyers in Houston!! He is sharp and very detailed lawyer. When he says he is going to do something trust me he is going to get it done with a fight!! And he is…
Winston Johnson
1000% recommended! He is very patient, professional, and tentative with his clients. Got a dismissal with him and his teams hard work. Thank you again! Hands down the BEST law firm.
Cassidyyy Schroeder
Excellent lawyer Very responsive and excellent litigator, have used him a couple of times and he has done a great job for very reasonable fees. Would definitely recommend to anyone that's looking for a good…
Hakim R
From the moment I contacted Mr.Ruiz I knew he was the right lawyer to hire, he would always keep me updated on my case and I could not thank him enough.
lsbugsbunny92
I will recommend Mr ruiz 100% to everyone who get a ticket he is a good lawyer he dismissed my husband dwi case fast that i expected he is a good professional lawyer and he…
Marco Mendoza
VERY THANKFUL WITH MR RUIZ I APPRECIATE EVRYTHING HE DID IN MY CASE..I RECOMMEND HIM..HIS THE BEST
Maria Maynez
He did a great job! He was very informative and helpful throughout the process! Very satisfied!
Darryl Tracy
One of the best lawyers very adaptable and understandable helps you in what he can and this at his fingertips won my DWI case with the best options and benefits.
Karen Rivas
He explains everything very well, step by step. Very satisfied with his work, it is worth hiring professional attorneys like Joseph Ruiz. Thanks
Carlos Loza
Without words, he was very attentive to his work. I take off my dwi in a very short time. I recommend it for people who care whoever helps them, it is definitely him. Thank you…
Miguel Hernandez
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