Joe’s criminal defense portfolio includes defending some of the area’s most significant murder cases (including Commonwealth v. Charles Severance and Commonwealth v. Craig Patterson) as well as defending major federal drug conspiracy charges, federal white collar crimes, and DUI defense.   His work in criminal defense has been recognized by top regional publications The Washingtonian (Best Lawyers – December 2017, 2015, 2013 and 2011 issues)  and Northern Virginia Magazine (Best Lawyers – December 2016 and 2014 issues) as well as Virginia Super Lawyers.

Prior to establishing his private legal practice in 2008, Joe worked as an attorney at the Alexandria Office of the Public Defender (2004-2008), which has a number of alumni recognized among the Washington DC metro area’s top trial lawyers. During his time as a public defender, Joe diligently worked on behalf of his indigent clients and attended the respected Trial Practice Institute at the National Criminal Defense College in Macon, Georgia.

Joe received his juris docturate cum laude from The University of Michigan Law School in 2003.  He earned a Masters Degree in History from George Mason University in 1996 and a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Mary Washington College in 1992.

Joe is a fluent Spanish speaker.