Ruth M. Martinez is a Senior Criminal Defense Attorney at Rossen Law Firm with more than three decades of courtroom experience and over 140 jury trials to verdict (110+ felonies). A Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer since 1995, Ruth has served as a felony division chief, owned a criminal defense practice for nearly two decades, and most recently managed the criminal division for Palm Beach County at the Office of Regional Conflict Counsel. She brings rigorous trial preparation, calm leadership under pressure, and a client-centered approach to serious felonies across South Florida.
Who I Am
I’m a trial lawyer, mentor, and problem-solver who believes people are more than the worst thing they’re accused of. For 35+ years, I’ve stood beside clients in Florida courtrooms—often in high-stakes felony cases where freedom, family, and future are on the line. I’m fluent in Spanish, which helps ensure Spanish-speaking clients and families are fully heard and understood.
I’ve led teams, trained young lawyers, and handled complex matters from capital felonies to white-collar investigations. Whether I’m preparing a cross of a key witness or mapping out a strategy with our case team, I stay focused on credibility, details, and results.
Why I Do This Work
Because outcomes in criminal court change lives. Early in my career, I saw how powerful thorough investigation, motion practice, and true advocacy can be. That’s why I prepare relentlessly, challenge weak evidence, and humanize every client’s story. I’m drawn to work that demands discipline and judgment, especially cases where careful lawyering can mean the difference between a conviction and a second chance.
Background & Education
- Criminal Division Manager, Office of Regional Conflict Counsel (Palm Beach County) — Led the criminal division while maintaining a serious-felony caseload, including death-penalty matters (2012–Feb. 2026).
- Founder, Ruth M. Martinez, P.A. — Ran a West Palm Beach practice focused on criminal defense, family law, and appeals; first-chair in 70+ jury trials spanning juvenile delinquency to life-punishable and capital felonies (1994–2012).
- Assistant Public Defender, 15th Judicial Circuit (Palm Beach County) — Tried serious felonies with a heavy docket; rose to lead responsibilities in the felony division (1989–1994).
- J.D., George Washington University National Law Center (1989).
- B.A., University of Miami, General Honors; major in Mathematics, minors in English and Religion (1986).
- Admissions: Florida Bar (1989); D.C. Bar (1991); U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida (1995).
Awards and Recognition
- Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer (since 1995) — Florida Bar’s highest credential in criminal trial practice.
Languages Spoken
English and Spanish
