Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney Celia P. Ruiz
Celia P. Ruiz
She knows how the state attorney’s office evaluates files, when they are likely to negotiate, and what it takes to challenge their evidence and seek a favorable outcome.
- Orlando criminal defense attorney, former Ninth Circuit prosecutor
- Handles felonies and misdemeanors in Orange, Osceola, and surrounding counties
- United States Navy veteran, former trial team coach, adjunct law professor
In private practice, Attorney Ruiz has represented individuals facing a wide range of criminal charges, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Attorney Ruiz understands that for you, this is not just “a case” — it is your job, life, freedom, family, and your reputation on the line, and that is how every case is handled from day one.
Before joining the Rivas Law Firm, Attorney Ruiz owned and operated her own law office, where she guided clients through every stage of the criminal justice system. That experience running a practice taught her to be both detail-oriented and practical, focusing on working toward real-world solutions like reduced charges, diversion, and avoiding jail time whenever possible.
Today, as part of the criminal defense team at the Rivas Law Firm, P.A., she works closely with clients throughout Orlando and the surrounding Central Florida communities. Whether you are dealing with a first-time arrest or you have prior convictions, she will take the time to explain your options and build a defense strategy tailored to your goals.
Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney and Former Prosecutor
Celia Ruiz began her legal career at the State Attorney’s Office for Florida’s Ninth Judicial Circuit in Orlando, where she served multiple terms as an Assistant State Attorney. In those roles, she managed large caseloads, often overseeing hundreds of files at a time while still preparing cases for motion hearings and trial.
As a criminal defense attorney in Central Florida, her courtroom background includes handling a high volume of criminal matters in county and circuit court. She has argued pretrial motions, conducted direct and cross-examinations, and presented cases to juries — experience that gives her a steady presence in front of judges and jurors when the stakes are highest for you.
In addition to her work in criminal court, Attorney Ruiz has long been committed to trial advocacy training. Serving as a Trial Team Coach at Barry University School of Law gives her the opportunity to help the next generation of advocates develop effective trial strategies which include formulating opening statements, cross-examinations, and closing arguments.
Criminal defense attorney Celia Ruiz also served as an adjunct professor at Barry University School of Law. In that role, she brought real-world criminal litigation experience into the classroom, teaching law students how legal theory actually plays out in the courtroom and how to think like trial lawyers from the very beginning of their careers.
Her combination of prosecution, defense, and teaching experience makes her especially effective at spotting weaknesses in the state’s case. She knows how to identify issues with police reports, witness credibility, and evidentiary problems that may be leveraged to your benefit.
Criminal Defense Attorney Celia Ruiz: Education, Military Service, and Community Involvement
Celia Ruiz earned her Juris Doctor from Barry University School of Law in Orlando, Florida. While in law school, she was a member of the Trial Team and served as a Senior Editor on Law Review, reflecting both her advocacy skills and her commitment to legal research and writing.
She distinguished herself early in her training through multiple internships, including placements with judges in Orange County and the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. She also gained hands-on courtroom experience as a Certified Legal Intern with the State Attorney’s Office and in a Juvenile Defense Clinic, where she handled motions, hearings, and trials for young clients.
Before becoming an attorney, Ms. Ruiz graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Barry University PACE. That business background gives her a practical, solutions-focused perspective when advising clients about the broader impact of their criminal cases.
Her service extends beyond the courtroom. Orlando criminal defense attorney Celia Ruiz is a United States Navy veteran who served with the Blue Angels in Pensacola. The discipline, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence she developed in the military continue to guide her work as a criminal defense attorney in Orlando.
Criminal Defense Attorney Celia Ruiz has been featured on FOX 35 Orlando to provide legal analysis on capital litigation and post‑conviction issues.