Betty E. Rodriguez

Betty E. Rodriguez is an Austin based attorney that focuses her practice on defense of Juveniles accused of misdemeanor and felony offenses. She has been Board Certified in Juvenile Law since 2002.  Achieving this designation requires testing to demonstrate expertise, on-going involvement in a specialty area and a substantial amount of continuing legal education approved by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.  As a Juvenile Law specialist, Ms. Rodriguez considers herself a lawyer and a counselor to many of her younger clients and treats all of  them with the respect and dignity they deserve. At a time like this, you want a dedicated, specialized and zealous advocate protecting your child’s legal interests.

As a parent, Ms. Rodriguez understands the difficulties that the entire family is experiencing when a child is accused of a crime.  She sees the potential in every kid. Juvenile adjudications can have a long term negative impact on a child’s life and hinder opportunities. For example, a juvenile record can permanently disqualify someone from enlisting in the military.  Ms. Rodriguez will gladly council with your child about the importance of not limiting future career options, on ways to preserve his or her ability to pursue their goals and on earning the right to seal their records.

Education and Memberships

  • Juris Doctor, University of Texas School of Law
  • Bachelor of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin
  • Admitted to The State Bar of Texas, May 1986
  • Board Certified in Juvenile Law, 2002
  • Juvenile Law Section-State Bar of Texas
  • The College of the State Bar of Texas
  • Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
  • Austin Criminal Defense Lawyer’s Association
  • The Pro Bono College, 2014
  • Recipient of Resolution – 22 years dedicated service to Travis County
  • Excellence in Public Interest Award – Texas Law Fellowships (2005)

Professional History

Solo Practitioner: 2013 – present

Former Assistant Travis County Juvenile Public Defender: 1991-2013

Former Adjunct Professor, University of Texas School of Law: Supervised law students enrolled in the Juvenile Justice Clinic.

Former caseworker/social worker for Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of Austin: Provided professionally supported mentoring for children in the community;  worked primarily with youth involved in the juvenile justice system by providing positive role models through community volunteers.

Foreign language spoken

Spanish