Our Team at Paz and Associates

Founder and Attorney

David M. Paz

Attorney David M. Paz has been practicing law for 20 years.

His areas of concentration include criminal law—misdemeanors and felonies, drug crimes, theft crimes, assault and domestic violence, sexual assault, probation violations, fraud crimes, DWI, firearm offenses, resisting arrest, trespassing, and prostitution—and immigration law, including family-based immigration, permanent residence, naturalization, removal and deportation, Deferred Action, and waivers of inadmissibility. The firm’s goal is to provide quality legal representation by communicating effectively and working to meet clients’ expectations.

Attorney Paz has successfully represented many clients through the complicated processes involved in immigration law, with a focus on clients in removal proceedings. He has successfully reunited many families and helped gain the release of many individuals and families detained by the federal government. He also secured a successful result in a civil-rights case involving a county and sheriff’s office. Paz and Associates has attained numerous dismissals for clients at all levels of criminal law.

The law firm’s legal fees reflect a priority toward helping clients even when financial considerations are an issue. The firm works with clients to help ensure that those in need of assistance can obtain quality legal representation at an affordable price.

Justice is the main priority at Paz and Associates. The firm is dedicated to helping clients who are often facing some of the most difficult times of their lives and strives to provide solutions that allow them to overcome problems that may at times seem insurmountable. The firm specializes in solving problems.

Mr. Paz received his B.A. in Philosophy from Texas State University and his J.D. from the University of Houston. He is a member of the State Bar of Texas and has a high Avvo rating. He is also trilingual, speaking English, Spanish, and German.

Criminal defense
Immigration law
Trial advocacy
Bilingual client service

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Associate Attorney

Daniel Herrera

Immigration advocacy shaped by personal understanding, clear communication, and compassionate representation.

Daniel Herrera has served as an Associate Attorney at Paz and Associates since 2024, where he focuses his practice on immigration law. Fluent in English and Spanish, Daniel works closely with clients through consultations and appearances before the immigration court, helping individuals and families navigate complex legal matters with clarity and compassion.

Raised in a small Texas town in an immigrant family, Daniel understands the sacrifices, determination, and opportunities that shape the immigrant experience in the United States. His background allows him to connect with clients and provide thoughtful, personalized representation.

Daniel graduated with academic honors from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi with a degree in Criminal Justice and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Houston Law Center. During law school, he participated in moot court, mock trial, clinical programs, and advocacy-focused coursework.

Daniel has assisted clients with employment authorization, lawful permanent residence, naturalization, and removal proceedings. He has also secured grants of Cancellation of Removal under INA § 240A(b), helping clients remain with their families and continue building their lives in the United States.

He is committed to providing honest guidance, clear communication, and dedicated advocacy to every client he serves.

Immigration law
Removal defense
Naturalization
Bilingual client service

Araceli Doria

Senior Paralegal and Office Manager

Araceli Doria is the Senior Paralegal and Office Manager at Paz and Associates Law Firm, where she has been an integral member of the team for more than 14 years. In her role, she oversees the firm’s daily operations and works closely with clients and attorneys in both immigration and criminal law matters.

She earned her Associates Paralegal degree from San Jacinto College and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Houston–Downtown. Fluent in English and Spanish, she is committed to helping clients from diverse backgrounds feel informed, supported, and welcomed throughout the legal process.

Known for her professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail, Araceli takes pride in building lasting relationships with clients and helping ensure that every matter is handled with care.

Adrian Franco

Immigration Paralegal

Adrian Franco is an Immigration Paralegal and graduate of the University of Houston-Clear Lake, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies. Before entering the legal profession, he spent more than a decade managing residential construction projects, developing strong organizational, client service, and project management skills. He has experience assisting attorneys in complex immigration matters before the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the National Visa Center (NVC). Fluent in English and Spanish, Adrian is committed to providing diligent and detail-oriented support to clients throughout the immigration process.

Evelin Morales

Criminal Case Manager

Evelin Morales joined Paz & Associates Law Firm in February 2026 as a legal assistant. Through her dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to learning, she has grown within the firm and now serves as the Criminal Case Manager.

Originally from Guatemala, she brings a passion for helping others and a personal understanding of the importance of bilingual support. Evelin is dedicated to providing compassionate service to clients, supporting attorneys, and contributing to a positive team environment. Outside of work, she enjoys soccer, music, movies, and spending time with family and friends.

Patricia Najar

Administrative Specialist

Patricia Najar joined PAZ & Associates in 2026 and brings a strong academic foundation with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Houston–Downtown. She is passionate about serving others and is excited to continue growing within the legal field.

Fluent in English and Spanish, Patricia values the opportunity to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds and contribute to the welcoming atmosphere of the firm. She combines creativity with strong organizational skills in supporting the firm’s outreach efforts and daily operations, helping ensure that both clients and staff are supported in a professional and efficient environment.

Outside of the office, Patricia serves in the National Cabinet as the Alumnae Chapter Development Officer for Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc., where she helps strengthen connections within the organization and support its mission. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment to personal and professional growth make her a valued member of the PAZ & Associates team.

Gerald Montero

Law Clerk and IT Specialist

Gerald Montero serves as a Law Clerk and IT Specialist, combining legal education, military service, healthcare leadership, and technology experience to support the firm and its clients.

Gerald is currently pursuing his Juris Doctor at South Texas College of Law Houston. As a law clerk, he assists with legal research, document preparation, case organization, and client matters under the supervision of licensed attorneys. His legal interests include criminal defense, family law, immigration, personal injury, and advocacy for veterans.

Gerald served on active duty in the United States Army as a healthcare specialist and combat medic. During his military service, he deployed to Baghdad with the 28th Combat Support Hospital in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While still serving on active duty, Gerald earned his undergraduate degree from Campbell University in North Carolina. His military experience strengthened his leadership, discipline, adaptability, and ability to remain composed while assisting people in challenging circumstances.

Following his military service, Gerald continued his career in healthcare, including leadership roles involving sterile processing and hospital operations. His experience in both military and civilian healthcare reinforced the importance of preparation, accountability, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Gerald also completed professional training in software development and coding through Codeup. As the firm’s IT specialist, he assists with website development, digital file systems, workflow improvement, technology implementation, and the secure and efficient management of information. He is particularly interested in using technology to improve law-firm operations and make legal services more accessible and organized for clients.

A first-generation college graduate and bilingual English-Spanish speaker, Gerald is committed to serving Houston’s diverse communities. He approaches his work with empathy, professionalism, persistence, and a strong dedication to service.

The Firm

A coordinated team behind every matter.

Our attorneys and support staff work together on preparation, filings, scheduling, and client communication so each case moves forward with clarity.