Robert C Pate

Robert C Pate is a San Antonio criminal defense attorney who represents clients facing DWI, assault, drug, theft, and other criminal charges in Texas. He previously served as an Assistant Criminal District Attorney in Bexar County before moving into defense practice. His background on both sides of criminal cases helps him evaluate evidence, anticipate prosecution strategies, prepare witnesses, and develop trial-focused defenses for clients facing serious legal consequences throughout South Texas.

RC earned his J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center in 2007, where he competed on traveling mock trial teams that placed third in the National Trial Competition. He was also inducted into the Order of the Barristers for trial advocacy. He earned his B.A. from Trinity University, majoring in physics and religion with minors in mathematics and philosophy. His education supports careful analysis of scientific and legal evidence.

RC spent about fifteen years operating his own criminal defense practice after leaving the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office. He has tried numerous criminal cases across Texas, appearing in courts from Midland to Laredo. His practice includes DWI defense and other misdemeanor and felony matters. He applies courtroom experience, forensic knowledge, and detailed preparation when reviewing police procedures, testing evidence, witness accounts, and constitutional issues that may shape a defense.

RC Pate was designated a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society in 2015 after advanced forensic science training. He has completed the NHTSA/IACP Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Practitioner course twice and has taught defense seminars. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association and has participated in Texas criminal defense organizations. His experience combines trial advocacy, scientific training, and sustained work defending people accused of crimes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Michael & Associates
• Member, Texas State Bar Association
• Founding Member, DUI Defense Lawyers Association
• Member, Texas DWI Lawyers Association
• Member, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• University of Houston Law Center
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Trinity University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges