Javier Cruz Jr. is a personal injury attorney with The Law Offices of Rick DeHoyos in San Angelo, Texas, where he is known for his unwavering commitment to advocating for individuals injured by negligence. His practice is rooted in preparation, accountability, and a deep respect for the people he serves.
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, primarily in the city’s historic Second Ward, Javier’s journey reflects the values of hard work and perseverance instilled in him by his family. He earned his law degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law in May 2022 and passed the Uniform Bar Examination in October 2022, becoming the first attorney in his family. His understanding of the American dream is deeply personal, shaped by the sacrifices made by those who came before him and his desire to create meaningful change in the lives of others.
In addition to his legal practice, Javier is deeply engaged in community service and civic leadership. He serves as Vice President of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Concho Valley, President of the Adult Literacy Council of San Angelo, and Board Member of the San Angelo Hispanic Heritage Museum. Through his work with the Adult Literacy Council, he has taught civics and citizenship classes to individuals preparing for the naturalization process, reflecting his commitment to education and empowerment.
Javier’s leadership has been widely recognized. He is a 20 Under 40 Award recipient from the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce, a graduate of Leadership San Angelo, a member of the 2025 Texas Leadership Class of the State Bar of Texas, and the 2025 Keynote Speaker for the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce Diversity Luncheon.
Javier credits his achievements not solely to himself, but to his faith, mentors, family, friends, and community. Guided by purpose and service, he continues to live by a principle that defines both his personal and professional life: leadership begins with saying “yes” to the opportunity to serve others.
Bilingual
English/Spanish
Education
- St. Mary’s University School of Law — Juris Doctor, May 2022
- Sam Houston State University — B.S. Criminal Justice, May 2018
Legal Experience
- The Law Offices of Rick DeHoyos (2022 — Present)
- Lead Pre-Litigation and Litigation departments; manage 130+ active files; oversee legal strategy, discovery, negotiation, and trial preparation; supervise staff; implement case-management technology.
- Christensen Building Group, LLC (2020 — 2021)
- In-House Counsel Intern
- Drafted contracts, conducted legal research, and supported construction law compliance.
Leadership & Community Involvement
- Vice President, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Concho Valley
- President, Adult Literacy Council of San Angelo
- Board Member, Alumni Association of American Mexican Students
- Board Member, San Angelo Hispanic Heritage Museum
Honors & Recognition
- 20 Under 40 Award Recipient, San Angelo Chamber of Commerce (2024)
- Graduate, Leadership San Angelo – 41st Class
- Selected, 2025 Texas Leadership State Bar of Texas Class
- 2025 Keynote Speaker, San Angelo Chamber of Commerce Diversity Luncheon
Community Engagement & Volunteerism
- Volunteer, San Angelo Chamber of Commerce
- Volunteer, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Concho Valley
- Citizenship & ESL Instructor, Adult Literacy Council
- Community Advocate, Concho Valley Community Action Agency