Ralph's family came from Cuba, but he was born in New York City. After receiving his B.A. in 1981 from Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey, he earned his Doctorate of Jurisprudence from the University of Bridgeport School of Law in Connecticut in1985. Since 1989 Ralph has focused his practice on helping clients with immigration issues serving as a partner in the law offices of Cruz & Pineda from 1996 to 2004. Ralph is a member of the American Bar Association and the American Immigration Lawyers Association as well as admitted to the United States District Court for the District of New jersey.

“"All persons with a strong desire to work hard and follow the laws of the United States should be able to do so free of fear and intimidation. I am a strong believer in family, and it is part of what I do to help keep that unity strong and ongoing."