ERICK
MENDOZA
CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Erick Mendoza
Bilingual English/Spanish criminal lawyer, litigator in the accusatory and oral criminal justice system.
I hold a Bachelor of Laws degree, with honors, from the University of the Valley of Matatipac (a program affiliated with the National Autonomous University of Mexico). I also hold a specialization in Criminal Law from the National Institute of Criminal Sciences (INACIPE) and a Master's degree in Evidence Law in Criminal Proceedings from the University of Barcelona. My training is complemented by ongoing litigation instruction, particularly in Oral Litigation Techniques and Cross-Examination with a focus on the Psychology of Testimony, taught by nationally recognized specialists. I have been a member of the Mexican Bar Association since 2016.
I am a partner at the law firm Opción Legal and I primarily focus on criminal defense within the adversarial and oral legal systems. My work centers on building a clear, evidence-based strategy and executing it with expert litigation at every stage of the proceedings.
My work approach is based on three pillars: clarity, strategy, and technical rigor. This involves thoroughly reviewing the case file and resolutions, identifying critical points (strengths and vulnerabilities), preparing for hearings with a coherent case theory, and maintaining constant communication so that the client understands the true state of the matter and can make informed decisions.
I also serve English-speaking clients, providing legal advice and support throughout court proceedings. When necessary, I offer interpretation and translation services to ensure clear and accurate communication, especially during hearings and document reviews.
In academia, I teach at the University of the Valley of Matatipac and am a visiting professor at the Autonomous University of Nayarit, where I have taught courses such as Legal Literature, Forensic Debate, Evidence Law, Civil Defenses and Exceptions, Special Offenses, Criminal Procedure, and Theory of Crime. This teaching experience strengthens my professional practice by maintaining ongoing professional development and a structured analytical approach.

Areas of Specialization
Initial hearing for the formal charging and indictment.
Precautionary measures, justified preventive detention.
Litigation technique in oral trial.
Ordinary and extraordinary defense resources.
Theory of Crime.
Evidence Theory.
Academic Background
2011-2016
Bachelor of Laws
National Autonomous University of Mexico; University of the Valley of Matatipac. Honorable Mention with the thesis: “Many lawyers, little profession”.
2022-2023
Master's Degree in Evidence Law in Criminal Matters
University of Barcelona
2024-2025
Specialization in Criminal Law
National Institute of Criminal Sciences INACIPE.