Oscar Salinas | Criminal Defense Attorney in San Antonio
Built with Grit: From First Generation to Elite Litigator
Oscar Salinas is a premier San Antonio criminal defense lawyer who brings unmatched trial experience, institutional courtroom respect, background as a former Golden Gloves boxer and a lifetime of Texas roots to your corner. Born and raised in South Texas, he understands the value of hard work, integrity, and relentless dedication.
The Power of an Insider Playbook
Before defending his community, Oscar spent over 12 years serving as a Bexar County Prosecutor. He successfully rose through the ranks to become a First-Chair Felony Prosecutor, mentoring younger advocates and handling the state's most complex and high-profile criminal dockets.
Having tried more than 80 jury trials to verdict, Oscar has mastered exactly how police officers assemble investigations and how the state builds its cases. At Oscar Salinas Law, this deep inside knowledge serves as a powerful defense mechanism. He knows where investigators cut corners, how forensic data can be mismanaged, and precisely how to expose vulnerabilities in the prosecution's evidence.
Backed by unmatched institutional respect, Oscar's deep commitment to transforming the local legal system is further highlighted by his recent campaign as a candidate for Bexar County District Attorney.
Education:
The University of Texas at Austin — J.D., School of Law
Relevant coursework: Criminal Law, Evidence, Trial Advocacy, Sentencing and Corrections
Honors and activities: Criminal Defense Clinic, Mock Trial
Work Experience & Trial History
Candidate for Bexar County District Attorney
System Leadership & Advocacy: Stepped forward to run a high-profile campaign for the county's chief law enforcement office, developing platforms focused on comprehensive criminal justice reform, rigorous case evaluation, and trial strategy accountability.
Bexar County District Attorney's Office — 1st Chair Felony Prosecutor
Served as Lead Trial Counsel on high-profile dockets, taking over 80 jury trials to verdict.
Partnered with law enforcement agencies including SAPD, FBI, Texas Rangers, and the U.S. Marshals.
Litigated sensitive dockets covering Family Violence, aggravated assault, and domestic strangulation.
Prosecuted tech-crimes and Cyber Crime cases involving child exploitation and CSAM with the Texas Attorney General's Office.
Handled confidential Public Integrity investigations utilizing grand jury proceedings.
Denton & Williamson County District Attorney's Offices — Prosecutor & Fellow
Evaluated law enforcement evidence, digital forensics, and video files for charging decisions.
Managed active dockets, conducted voir dire, tried misdemeanor cases, and negotiated plea resolutions.
Prior Defense Experience & Legal Internships
Law Office of Joseph A. Turner — Criminal Defense Law Clerk: Prepared defense strategies and research for serious felony dockets under a board-certified specialist.
Travis County District Attorney’s Office — Felony Division Intern: Compiled discovery, indexed evidence, and supported felony trial dockets.
Licenses and Certifications:
Texas
Professional Memberships:
State Bar of Texas