Ron Rayes

Ron Rayes is the Assistant Chief of the Juvenile and Civil Commitment Branch in San Mateo County. He administers juvenile justice, dependency, Lanterman-Petris-Short Act, CARE Court, probate guardianship, and conservatorship cases. His responsibilities include assigning matters and supervising attorneys who provide court-appointed representation. He works to support consistent advocacy for children, families, and individuals facing proceedings that may affect liberty, care, or decision-making authority.

Rayes earned his J.D. from Golden Gate University School of Law and a B.S. in Political Science from San Francisco State University. He is admitted to practice in California. His education provided a foundation in constitutional law, criminal procedure, advocacy, and legal analysis. This training supports his guidance in juvenile cases, dependency proceedings, civil commitments, guardianships, and other matters involving vulnerable clients and detailed statutory requirements.

Before joining program management, Rayes practiced criminal defense for more than sixteen years. He represented indigent clients in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties and appeared regularly in juvenile court. His experience included litigating transfer cases that determine whether young people may be prosecuted in adult court. This background gives him practical insight into investigation, case preparation, courtroom strategy, rehabilitation concerns, and the lasting consequences of juvenile justice decisions.

Ron Rayes joined management in 2019 and remains an active advocate for juvenile justice reform. He serves on the Pacific Juvenile Defender Center’s Executive Board and frequently presents on juvenile law before the California Legislature. His leadership combines courtroom experience with attorney supervision, program administration, and policy advocacy. Through this work, he helps strengthen defense services and supports thoughtful representation for clients navigating juvenile and civil commitment systems.

Law Office Affiliations

• Assistant Chief, San Mateo County Private Defender Program
• Member, The State Bar of California

Licensed State

• California

Education

• Golden Gate University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• San Francisco State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges