ABOUT CRIS MARTINEZ
Cris Martinez is a United States Air Force veteran and one of the state’s emerging professionals on the topic of use of force, de-escalation, and law enforcement training. Cris has worked with some of the nation’s leading legal defense programs and training organizations, such as US LawShield, University of Houston-Downtown and Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, to develop modern and practical training options for law enforcement officers and civilians. Cris has personally instructed thousands of law enforcement officers and civilians and has evaluated hundreds of use of force scenarios, both in a training and practical context.
Cris’ insights on use of force standards and de-escalation concepts have been featured at various conferences and seminars, including the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Annual Training Coordinator’s Conference, National Liquor Law Enforcement Association Annual Conference, and the Texas Handgun Association Annual Conference.
Cris holds professional certifications from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, Force Science Institute, and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
Cris recently completed a 20-year active law enforcement career, where he most recently served as a Sergeant-Training & Firearms Coordinator assigned to the Law Enforcement Training Division at the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. He now provides use of force case analysis and training services for public and private organizations.
Cris is a member of the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association, the California Force Instructors’ Association, and the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas.
CASE ANALYSIS
Understanding what happens in a self‑defense encounter requires more than reviewing statements or watching video. It not only demands insight into how real people perceive threats, make decisions under stress, and respond when they believe their safety is at risk, it also requires understanding of how their decisions apply to legal standards. Having trained thousands of private citizens on self-defense and firearm laws, he knows first-hand how private citizens are trained and their understanding of the law.
Cris provides objective, experience‑based analysis that helps attorneys, investigators, and organizations evaluate the reasonableness of a person’s actions during tense, uncertain, and rapidly evolving situations.
Cris’ background as a public speaker and trainer ensures that his professional opinions are not only objective and experience-based, but also clearly communicated and easily understood by attorneys, judges, and juries.
TRAINING
Effective training saves lives, reduces liability, and builds confidence. Cris provides professional, experience‑based training and curriculum development services for law enforcement agencies, private organizations, and civilian groups seeking clear, practical instruction grounded in real‑world experience. His programs are designed to enhance performance, strengthen decision‑making, and ensure that personnel at every level understand both the operational and legal dimensions of their responsibilities.
If your agency, organization, or group needs professional training or wants to strengthen existing programs, Cris provides the expertise and support to help you achieve your goals.
“Cris Martinez provided exceptional guidance and support. His expertise made a significant difference in my defense.” - Brandon V.
CONTACT
Have a question, partnership idea, or training request? I’d love to hear from you. Reach out directly for a case review, collaboration, or training request.
Phone: 713.826.2687