RUANO-MARTINEZ LAW

Rolando Ruano, J.D.

Partner | Criminal Defense & Immigration Law

Born in Guatemala and now a fierce advocate for immigrants’ rights, Rolando Ruano brings firsthand understanding and unwavering dedication to his practice in criminal defense and immigration law. His personal journey as an immigrant fuels his commitment to defending clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges, deportation proceedings, and complex cases before Immigration Courts.

Rolando earned his Juris Doctor from Concordia University School of Law, where he dedicated over 270 pro-bono hours to underserved communities and served as President of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society. Mentored by Benjamin Stein of Andrade Legal, he developed a passion for guiding others—both as a mentor and as a tenacious litigator. His academic excellence began at the University of Utah, where he graduated with a Communication degree (Dean’s List, Tau Sigma/Crimson Honor Society).

As Founding Managing Attorney of Ruano-Martinez Law, Rolando leads a practice built on empathy, expertise, and relentless advocacy. He represents clients at every stage of criminal and immigration cases, from initial consultations to courtroom battles. Previously, as an Associate Attorney at Barrera Legal Group, he honed his skills in removal defense and criminal litigation. His early career included pivotal work with the ACLU of Idaho on civil rights cases and hands-on asylum representation through Concordia Law’s Immigration Clinic and Andrade Legal, where he conducted legal research, translated documents, and prepared clients for hearings.

Why Our Clients Trust Him

• Native Spanish speaker with full fluency in legal translation and client advocacy.
• Immigrant perspective: Combines personal experience with deep legal knowledge.
• Proven record: From asylum applications to felony defense, he fights for justice at every turn.

Rolando’s mission is simple: To protect the rights of those navigating the complexities of the U.S. legal system—because no one should face the fight alone.

Gabriela Martinez-Ruano, J.D.

Partner | Criminal Defense & Immigration Law

Born in Argentina and now a passionate advocate for immigrant rights, Gabriela Martinez-Ruano combines personal understanding with legal expertise to champion justice in immigration and criminal cases. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she provides compassionate, strategic representation for clients navigating family-based applications, removal proceedings, and criminal hearings.

Gabriela earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Idaho College of Law, graduating with Dean’s List honors (Fall 2020-Spring 2022). She received the prestigious CALI Award in Professional Responsibility at Concordia University School of Law, demonstrating her commitment to ethical practice. Her academic foundation includes a Summa Cum Laude Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a Criminology Certificate and Political Science minor from the University of Utah.

As Associate Attorney at Ruano-Martinez Law, Gabriela Provides comprehensive legal counsel for immigration and criminal matters, represents clients in immigration court proceedings and USCIS interviews, and conducts client intakes and case evaluations with cultural sensitivity

Her commitment to justice is further demonstrated through her work in the Immigration Clinic  at University of Idaho, assisting asylum seekers

Pro bono service at Idaho Legal Aid, helping vulnerable clients secure U-visas, and Legal research on housing rights and family law matters

Gabriela brings unique strengths to our firm:

• Native Spanish speaker with complete fluency in legal terminology
• Firsthand immigrant experience that informs her client-centered approach
• Research background in social-behavioral sciences (iUtah/NSF EPSCoR)
• Community-oriented perspective shaped by her Argentinian heritage

“My journey inspires my purpose: to stand with those navigating the system—just as I once did.”

Maria Ballesteros

Office Manager | Head Paralegal

Born in Mexico and raised in Idaho, Maria Ballesteros has proudly called the Gem State home for 26 years. Bilingual and bicultural, she lives by her favorite dicho: “¡Ponte las pilas!”—a phrase that captures her proactive spirit and tireless dedication to helping others navigate life’s challenges. Having navigated the immigration journey herself, Maria understands the fears and hopes that accompany this complex process.