Michael Rosas Advocates For Client Rights in His Role as a Criminal Defense Attorney

By Michael Rosas

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Criminal Defense

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Last Modified on Jan 30, 2026

Educational Background:

• B.A. in Criminal Justice
• Originally From: Staten Island, NY
• Key Influence: Dr. Jodie Roure

Professional Experience:

• Richmond County Courthouse
• Advanced Degrees: M.B.A. and J.D. from Rutgers University

“My law firm handles criminal defense matters across a broad spectrum, from simple traffic offenses to serious violent crime charges in both state and federal jurisdictions. Just recently, I won an acquittal for someone charged with aggravated assault and attempted murder,” says New Jersey criminal defense lawyer, Michael Rosas, who founded his criminal defense firm ten years ago. “My goal is to guarantee that every client gets a fair trial, faces appropriate charges, and walks free when wrongly accused.”

What Draws You to Criminal Justice?

The events of September 11th, 2001, redirected my career trajectory. At that time, I held a complete scholarship studying engineering at NYU Polytechnic. My daily commute involved an express bus from Staten Island to Manhattan. Post-9/11, security screenings became routine at the Verrazano Bridge. One particular morning, my bus driver stopped the vehicle and notified National Guard personnel about a “suspicious individual”, referring to “the passenger with long hair and facial hair.” He was describing me. While I’d encountered discrimination previously. Being among only three Hispanic residents in my Staten Island community meant dealing with officers who targeted me. This incident struck differently. In that moment on the bus, I understood engineering wasn’t my calling; I needed to pursue work that would benefit others. I developed a strong commitment to entering the criminal justice field and defending people’s rights. I recognized this institution offered the finest preparation for that career.

Did Anyone Guide Your Professional Development?

Dr. Jodie Roure positioned me for achievement both during my studies and afterward. She ensured my coursework aligned with my goals, helped me prepare for the LSAT, and encouraged me to build connections through internships and networking with legal professionals. When considering graduate programs, she recommended institutions where I should apply for my J.D. She walked me through Rutgers’ application requirements and consistently provided valuable feedback when I had questions or doubts.

How Did Your Education Shape Your Defense Work?

My education extended far beyond textbook knowledge. During my time as a student, I gained valuable knowledge from instructors who were actively working as attorneys and in law enforcement. This provided practical insights into the profession. I developed a comprehensive understanding of the work and learned to maintain compassion while practicing law. The approachable nature of my professors inspired me to maintain that same accessibility with my clients.

What’s It Like Being a Hispanic Attorney?

Latinos represent approximately six percent of legal professionals nationwide. In my New Jersey practice area, only two Hispanic defense attorneys operate. When Hispanic or minority clients come to me, they often feel an immediate rapport. This connection proves invaluable because it facilitates open, honest communication. When someone’s liberty and future hang in the balance, comfort and trust become essential.

Regarding obstacles, achieving recognition as a peer—whether at firms or in courtrooms—can prove difficult. Judges have mistaken me for an interpreter or even the accused. Certain jurisdictions make me uncomfortable enough that I decline cases there. Despite these hurdles, I remain passionate about my work and profession.

What Case Stands Out Most?

I retain memories of roughly 97 percent of my cases, but the most emotionally rewarding ones involve restoring clients’ lives. One federal case involved a client expecting incarceration. The situation carried extra weight because his mother was terminally ill, and he feared being imprisoned during her final days. Following our courtroom presentation, he received probation instead. Afterward, his mother embraced me and expressed gratitude for giving her additional time with her son.

What Guidance Would You Offer Aspiring Attorneys?

Never abandon your legal aspirations, regardless of barriers you face. Always remember you’re representing actual human beings, so maintain authenticity with clients and communicate in understandable terms. Recognize that people aren’t fundamentally bad; they sometimes simply make poor choices.

Source: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/news-events/news/defense-attorney-michael-rosas-05-advocates-justice-his-own-law-firm