Meet Javier

Javier O. Martinez Javier Martinez is an accomplished criminal defense attorney based in Houston, Texas. He has served as lead defense counsel in complex federal and state prosecutions involving fraud, antitrust violations, money laundering, organized crime, and firearms offenses. He also represents clients in federal appeals before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

A firm believer that our justice system only works when every individual is vigorously defended, Javier has built a career defined by tireless advocacy and results. He has secured acquittals in both federal and state courts, and achieved numerous dismissals in complex criminal matters — including cases involving international drug conspiracies, human smuggling, and large-scale fraud.

Born in Mexico and raised in Laredo, Texas, Javier draws on his immigrant experience to connect deeply with his clients and their families. His perspective reminds him that behind every case is a life, a story, and a future worth fighting for.

When he’s not in court, Javier spends time with his wife — a state public defender — and their two young children at their home in Houston.

Bar Admissions

  • Texas, 2013
  • United States District Court – Southern District of Texas, 2014
  • United States District Court – Eastern District of Texas, 2014
  • United States District Court – Northern District of Florida, pro hac vice,  2017
  • United States District Court – Western District of Louisiana, pro hac vice, 2018
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit

Education

  • South Texas College of Law, J.D., 2013
  • The University of Texas at Austin, B.A., 2009

Professional Associations

  • Federal Bar Association, 2017
  • Mexican American Bar of Houston Association, 2017
  • Hispanic Bar Association of Houston, 2017
  • Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer’s Association, 2016
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, 2016

Awards

  • Texas Super Lawyers – Rising Stars, 2021-2025
  • Top 100 – The National Trial Lawyer’s Association, 2018
  • Dean’s List, South Texas College of Law
  • Evelyn Morris Scholarship, South Texas College of Law
  • Academic Merit Scholarship, South Texas College of Law
  • Top Grade: Texas Trial and Appellate Procedure, South Texas College of Law
  • Top Grade: Criminal Trial Advocacy, South Texas College of Law
  • Dean’s List: The University of Texas at Austin

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