Born and raised in Wilson County, Texas, Steven Barrera is a trusted local advocate with deep roots in the community and a reputation as one of the most skilled criminal trial lawyers in Central and South Texas. With degrees from UTSA (Philosophy) and St. Mary’s Law School—where he made the Dean’s List, served as a law review writer, and won first place in the 1L Moot Court Competition—Steven’s academic and courtroom excellence has always stood out.
Steven began his legal career in the national trial section of Bracewell & Giuliani LLP, gaining big-firm experience before returning home to launch his own practice in 2008. Since then, he has built a powerhouse reputation, recognized as a Top San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney by SA Scene and holding a perfect 10.0 AVVO rating.
His experience is unmatched: from serious felony trials to record-clearing work, Steven has fought and won in courtrooms across the region. As a former part-time judge in Wilson County, he brings rare insight from both sides of the bench—an asset that gives his clients a powerful advantage.
Clients turn to Steven when the stakes are high and results matter. He’s not just a lawyer; he’s a fighter, a strategist, and a pillar of the local legal community.
Honors & Awards
Top San Antonio Criminal Defense 2022 SA Scene
Texas Roots: Raised in Wilson County, Texas — local, trusted, and connected to the community
B.A. in Philosophy from University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)
J.D. from St. Mary’s Law School
Made the Dean’s List
Wrote for The Scholar: St. Mary’s Law Review on Race and Social Justice
Interned for U.S. Fifth Circuit Judge Emilio Garza
1st Place and Best Speaker – St. Mary’s 1L Moot Court Competition
Top San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney – SA Scene (2022)
Perfect 10.0 AVVO Rating
Began career at Bracewell & Giuliani in the firm’s trial section – national-caliber experience
Founded His Own Firm in 2008:
Built a reputation as a go-to trial lawyer in the region
Served as a part-time Judge in Wilson County – rare insight from both sides of the courtroom
Trial Experience Across Serious Charges
Known as one of the best criminal trial attorneys in Central and South Texas