Background
Ruben is originally from Puerto Rico and was raised in one of New York City's toughest neighborhoods. Despite poverty and hard times in New York City public schools, he graduated high school and was accepted at Skidmore College, one of the country's premier liberal arts colleges. His studies included political science courses, literature, film and dance. He graduated in 1999 with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Spanish. Ruben became the first person in his family to graduate from College.
Wanting a change, Ruben decided to attend law school at Portland's, Lewis & Clark Law School. In law school, he was more attracted to courses relating to civil rights and human interactions. He particularly enjoyed courses in public international law, and the law and racism. Ruben graduated from law school in 2002.
Work Experience
Rather than work for a law firm after law school, like many law school graduates, he decided to accept a position as a Judicial Clerk with the Honorable David Gernant at the Multnomah County Circuit Court. His time at the Circuit Court was invaluable. He learned many of his trial management skills and legal writing skills as a Judicial Clerk.
After working at the Circuit Court, Ruben was hired as an associate at the law firm of Squires & Lopez, PC. As an associate he handled a misdemeanor caseload of plus 80 cases. He appeared in hundreds of court hearings and trials. A few months after starting his associate position, Ruben started his own caseload of personal injury cases. For over 7 years, Ruben managed a double caseload of criminal and personal injury cases. In 2010, he decided to open up his own "shop". He cites his passion for closer client contact as one of the reasons for opening his own law firm.
Outside The Office
Aside from his professional work, Ruben is an avid traveler, having visited nearly 30 countries. He is also an avid hiker. He also enjoys gardening, coffee and foreign films. His other memberships include the Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Oregon Hispanic Bar Association, the Oregon Gay and Lesbian Lawyers Association, Oregon Women Lawyers and the Clackamas County Bar Association.