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Jonathan L Katz

Criminal defense Attorney at Fairfax, VA

5.0   295 reviews

also known as Jon Katz, P.C.

Free consultation
Free consultation
  • State Years
    Virginia - VA 26 years
    Dist. of Columbia - DC 33 years
    Maryland - MD 33 years
  • Licensed for 26 years
    State VA
    Acquired 1997
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 33 years
    State DC
    Acquired 1990
    Status
    Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 33 years
    State MD
    Acquired 1989
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Jonathan

Learn Jonathan’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    45%
    Northern Virginia criminal lawyer Jon Katz has successfully defended thousands of criminal defense clients, taking cases to trial when they will not favorably, often obtaining favorable trial results, settlements, and case dispositions.

    32 years, 3,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    45%
    Northern Virginia DUI lawyer Jon Katz has successfully defended hundreds of clients charged with DUI/DWI. A DUI conviction threatens not only one's liberty, but also one's driving privileges, and sometimes livelihood and immigration status.

    32 years

  3. Federal crime
    5%
    Northern Virginia criminal defense attorney Jon Katz has been defending clients in federal criminal court since 1999. He handles felony, misdemeanor and DUI/DWI defense in the Alexandria and other federal courts.

    24 years

  4. White collar crime
    5%
    Northern Virginia criminal defense lawyer Jon Katz has been defending white collar criminal clients for years. In fact, Jon's pre-law school background is in the white collar business world, having worked on Wall Street for a year before law school.

    24 years

CALL FOR YOUR FREE ACTION PLAN AND CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION. PURSUING YOUR BEST DEFENSE IN CRIMINAL & DWI DEFENSE SINCE 1991. YOU WILL LEAVE YOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION WITH JON KATZ MORE KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT YOUR CASE AND BETTER PREPARED FOR VICTORY THAN EVER. JON LOOKS FORWARD TO ASSISTING YOU.

Call for your free action plan and initial confidential consultation with seasoned criminal defense / DWI lawyer Jon Katz.

Jon Katz is a battle-tested three-decade criminal defense/ DWI defense lawyer who goes to court with trial-ready strength and preparedness. Jon thrives on pursuing the best possible results in court for each of his clients. 

Criminal defense is war, requiring being armed to the teeth, and progressing the proverbial fighting as needed from checking before hurting, hurting before maiming, and maiming before destroying. Criminal defense is also about lessons from martial arts, using fearless cunning and strategy over brute force, and drawing from my daily martial arts practice. The stakes are often high, and the battle should be treated as a one-chance-only affair.

Jon defends in Northern Virginia and beyond, including Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, Prince William and Loudoun Counties. He spends virtually his entire time defending criminal defense and DUI clients, fighting for the best possible results for his clients, and repeatedly going to trial when needed. He has successfully defended over 3000 clients in criminal court since 1991, and has taken hundreds of cases to trial. Many of Jon's trial highlights are at .  

My staff and I will be delighted to arrange a free consultation time for you to meet with me if you seek a criminal defense or DWI lawyer. 

More about my law practice  and experience is at and at my blog at .

Photos and videos

Challenging Obamas spying-gate. (Fox News).

Contact Jonathan

Fairfax Main Office- One block from the courthouse.
10509 Judicial Drive
#101
Fairfax, VA, 22030
Arlington, Virginia, meeting location. Main office is in Fairfax.
1550 Wilson Blvd., Seventh Floor
Four blocks from the Arlington courthouse.
Arlington, VA, 22201
Hide locations

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  295 customer reviews
Posted by Sam | July 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fires on all cylinders
Jon was able to secure an amazing, seemingly improbable result for my DUI case with an accident, especially considering my imperfect record. He is able to bring considerable knowledge and experience to bear inside and outside of the courtroom. Like racecar drivers who use every inch of the track to maximize their velocity, Jon left no advantage unrealized when preparing for trial and frankly gave the prosecution little room to maneuver. He surpassed all my expectations and I would recommend Jon to anyone stuck in a jam with the law.
Read less
Response from Jonathan Katz July 23, 2023
As my great teacher SunWolf told me early in my criminal defense career: "Reality is no obstacle." That of course does not mean to be able to expect to walk through a brick wall, but to find a way to work around the wall or to dismantle it. That level of positivity helps me achieve amazing results in court. Thank you for the opportunity to have defended you . Jon Katz
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Posted by Kimberly | June 27, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank You, Jon!
I couldn't have asked for a more comfortable and reassuring experience with Jon. He walked me through every possible scenario regarding my case and helped work me through all of my options. Rachel and Christiana were also fantastic, keeping me up to date via email as well as providing quick responses with my questions. Jon kept me at ease through the whole process with his sense of humor (definitely a high mark there!) and his continued assistance.
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Response from Jonathan Katz June 29, 2023
The courthouse needs demystifying for litigants. Adding humor to the mix can be empowering. Thanks for posting this AVVO review. Jon Katz
Posted by Dee | June 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
I hired Jon for two cases. Jon has a friendly personality, makes himself available to you, and thoroughly invests in obtaining the best outcome for your case. His staff are friendly and very efficient too. I will recommend Jon to anyone seeking a highly skilled and professional criminal defense attorney. Thank you Jon and staff for outstanding service!
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Response from Jonathan Katz June 19, 2023
My staff and I pursue our clients' best defense, while making ourselves timely available to them, with a friendly touch. Thank you for your kind words about me and my staff. Jon Katz
Posted by anonymous | May 29, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer!
Jon Katz is the best in business! He was able to reduce 2 serious cases into one but not only that. Instead of being a misdemeanor, he used his experience and knowledge to make it a traffic infraction only. Thank you Jon!
Response from Jonathan Katz June 3, 2023
As one of my early trial teachers showed- Reality is no obstacle. What a great result we obtained. The rush I felt when we achieved this outcome was incredible. Thank you for the opportunity to defend you. Jon
Posted by Ilia | May 25, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Life saver!
I had the privilege of working with Jon, a highly skilled Fairfax Criminal Lawyer, and his outstanding team at their law firm. I am beyond grateful for their exceptional assistance in resolving my DWI case, as it truly saved my life. Jon's expertise, professionalism, and dedication were evident throughout the entire process. From the moment I contacted Jon's firm, I knew I was in capable hands. Jon patiently listened to my concerns and provided me with clear guidance on the best approach to my case. His knowledge of the legal system was impressive, and he ensured that I fully understood my rights and the potential consequences I faced. His professionalism and strategic thinking were unwavering, and he left no stone unturned in exploring every possible avenue for a favorable outcome. I must also mention Jon's staff members, Rachel and Christiana, who played an integral role in coordinating all the details regarding my case. Their proactive approach, prompt communication, and attention to detail were exceptional. They worked tirelessly to ensure that all necessary documents were in order and that I was well-informed throughout the process. Their contributions greatly contributed to the success of my case. In conclusion, I highly recommend Jon and his team to anyone in need of a skilled criminal lawyer in Fairfax. Their expertise, professionalism, and dedication are unmatched. Thanks to their exceptional work, my DWI case was resolved favorably, giving me a second chance. If you're facing a legal challenge, don't hesitate to reach out to Jon and his team, as they are committed to providing outstanding representation and delivering exceptional results.
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Response from Jonathan Katz May 25, 2023
Most of my criminal defense and DWI clients have little to no experience in court, which at once is a land of opportunity and landmines. Thank you for the opportunity to have obtained a great outcome for you in court.
Posted by anonymous | May 24, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Katz Truly Saved My Life
As you read this message, you're likely experiencing the same worry and dread about the future that consumed me a few months ago. The realization that my own foolish actions could result in losing everything I had was devastating. Looking back on that period, the best decision I made was to engage Mr. Katz as my attorney. I searched frantically for legal representation, contacting no less than ten lawyers, only to sink deeper into despair. Their words echoed in my mind, "OMG, These are the most charges I've ever seen," "You're almost certain to face jail time," "You'll undoubtedly have a criminal record." Despair became my constant companion, enveloping my life in complete darkness. But when I met Mr. Katz, my instincts told me he was the right person. He has a lot of experience and knows the law ins and outs. He knows what to do to get the best outcome. Having delved into the depths of Mr. Katz's blog posts, I was astounded by his extraordinary expertise and unwavering passion for his profession. He is a genius, even when you are in absolute darkness, he can always find you and bring you light. Mr. Katz and his dedicated staff Rachel, kept me well-informed about the progress of my case. His door was always open to me. Every time I meet with Mr. Katz, I feel more relaxed than ever. On the day of the trial, when I saw Mr. Katz's confident smile, all my tension dissolved. Court was his home turf, and he was a fearless warrior. I could hardly believe my ears when Mr. Katz told me the final outcome: ALL CHARGES WERE DISMISSED! Leaving me with a clean record and no loss! This result I never dared to expect, but Mr. Katz did it! I have no doubt that you will experience the same immense gratitude that I feel for making the correct decision—having Mr. Katz to stand by your side, fighting tooth and nail for you. No amount of thanks can adequately express my gratitude to Mr. Katz, who truly saved my life.
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Response from Jonathan Katz May 24, 2023
Helping to save the world was a motivator for me to go to law school. Now, I instead derive great satisfaction from making such a huge positive difference in so many of my clients' lives, including yours. Thank you for your kind words about me and my dynamite assistant Rachel.
Posted by Josh | November 10, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Only lawyer you should consider
I’d like to thank Mr Katz for his outstanding work, as well as Abby and Rachel, being so diligent on their end too. Their professionalism along with tireless work ethic was a tremendous help. I highly recommend their team for any of your needs
Response from Jonathan Katz November 10, 2023
Diligent work can pay off well for our clients. The details need to be handled well along with the bigger picture. Thank you for taking time to tell the public about your experience with us. Jon Katz
Posted by anonymous | September 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superb Criminal Attorney
I enlisted the services of John Katz for urgent assistance with a probation violation. He acted promptly by devising a defense strategy and explaining the potential outcomes. Throughout our interactions, John exuded a calming presence that helped alleviate the stress of the situation. On the day of our court appearance, John remained composed, leading us to the most favorable outcome. I highly recommend John Katz to anyone in need of a criminal attorney. I would also like to thank Rachel and Abigail for their meticulous communication and valuable contributions to this outstanding team.
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Response from Jonathan Katz September 17, 2023
A criminal defense lawyer's powerful calmness can alleviate his client's stress. Thank you for pointing that out in your review.
Posted by anonymous | September 11, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Legal Expertise and Compassionate Guidance
I'm absolutely grateful for Mr. Katz's exceptional legal expertise. We were extremely lucky that Mr. Katz is not only a Fairfax criminal lawyer, but also extremely experienced in Loudoun County where the system is nuanced and rigid, even for first-time offenders. He worked diligently since day one to build the strongest case, understand every facet of the situation, and guide us through every step of the process. Whether it was organizing an expert witness, like Mr. McGarry, or court reporters, etc. he made sure that our defense strategy was comprehensive and detailed. It's only because of his expertise and preparation that the sentence was reduced by the prosecution to reckless driving and agreed to by the judge. Even post case, he's been in touch consistently to make sure that any next steps are taken care of and any questions I have are answered. What I truly appreciated throughout the process was the clear and straightforward way Mr. Katz explained things to me as a client. He ensured I was aware of every possible outcome, the implications in different scenarios, and what we needed to do next. His in-depth knowledge about DWI laws and compassionate approach towards his clients makes him truly an amazing lawyer. His team, especially Rachel Kern, was extremely helpful in coordinating all the details of my case and keeping us up to speed. Their proficiency, integrity, and commitment are unparalleled. If you're in need of legal assistance, I highly recommend Mr. Katz and can't thank him enough for helping us through this difficult situation.
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Response from Jonathan Katz September 11, 2023
My staff and I work diligently in pursuing our clients' best possible defense. Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback.
Posted by Moises | September 8, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review of Jonathan L. Katz
Jon showed me from the start that he was an attorney I could trust with my case. He is responsive, highly experienced, and extremely knowledgeable. Jon and his legal assistant, Rachel, kept me informed every step of the way and answered all my questions in an expedite manner. He is an amazing attorney and would recommend for any case.
Read less
Response from Jonathan Katz September 11, 2023
My team and I strive to provide our clients first-rate service at every turn. Thank you for your kind words about me and my assistant Rachel.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner / Criminal Defense Lawyer
  • Jon Katz, P.C.
  • 2008 - Present
  • Criminal Defense partner
  • Marks & Katz, LLC
  • 1998 - 2008
  • Trial lawyer
  • Chaikin & Sherman, P.C.
  • 1996 - 1998
  • Assistant Public Defender - Trial attorney
  • Maryland Public Defender's Office
  • 1991 - 1996
  • Associate attorney
  • Weiner, McCaffrey, Brodsky & Kaplan
  • 1989 - 1991
View all work experience

Education

  • Trial Lawyers College- Dubois, Wyoming
  • Four-week intensive program.
  • 1995
  • Trial Practice Institute ("Macon") - National Criminal Defense College
  • Intensive two-week program
  • 1994
  • George Washington University National Law Center
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1989
  • Tufts University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1985
View all education

Legal Cases

  • Converting 3 prostitution cases to disorderly conduct with suspended jail
  • Converted three prostitution cases to disorderly conduct with suspended sentences
  • Winning A DWI Trial By Putting Our Own Traffic Stop Witness On The Stand
  • Acquittal
  • Winning a DWI trial by challenging the opposing toxicologist.
  • Acquittal.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Helping Individual Prostitutes Survive
  • Treasurer
  • 2002 - 2005
  • Free Speech Coalition of DC, MD and VA
  • Founding President
  • 2001 - 2003
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Champion Magazine Advisory Board
  • 1995 - 2011
  • American Civil Liberties Union - National Capital Area
  • Board Member
  • 1992 - 1995
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish
  • French
  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV-rated
  • Martindale Hubbell
  • 2022
  • Super Lawyers-listed
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top 800 Lawyers
  • Washingtonian Magazine
  • 2007

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Justice With Judge Jeanine Show
  • Fox News
  • 2013
  • Speaking on the benefit of mindfulness for criminal defense practice
  • Finding True Refuge
  • 2012
  • Know Your Rights
  • Know Your Rights With the Police
  • 2010
  • Criminal Suspects' Rights
  • Asserting your rights with the police.
  • 2007
  • Your rights and 420
  • Standing up the police searching for marijuana.
  • 2006
  • Successful Strategies for Circuit Court Criminal Cases
  • Trial techniques
  • 2006
  • Virginia Court-Appointed Lawyer Training
  • PRETRIAL PREPARATION IN VIRGINIA MISDEMEANOR AND FELONY CASES
  • 2005
  • National Lawyers Guild- Student Orientation
  • Keeping your values while in law school.
  • 2004
  • National Lawyers Guild Mid-Atlantic Meeting
  • Animal Rights
  • 2003
  • Burton Wechsler National First Amendment Moot Court Competition
  • Moot Court Judge
  • 2002
  • Annual Meeting
  • First Amendment Rights with Adult Entertainment
  • 2001
  • National Academies panel on children's online access to erotic material.
  • Federal obscenity laws.
  • 2000
  • Legally Speaking
  • Weekly legal radio call-in show
  • 1999
  • Moot Court - George Washington University Law School
  • Moot Court Judge
  • 1998
  • Moot Court- University of Maryland Law School
  • Moot Court Judge
  • 1996
  • NoVa NORML
  • Marijuana reform and criminal defense
  • N/A
  • News interviews.
  • Interviews on criminal and Constitutional defense.
  • N/A
  • GW Human Sexuality Class
  • Sex crime defense and human sexuality.
  • N/A
  • Fox 45 Baltimore
  • Interviewed on criminalizing upskirting videos
  • N/A
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (81)
Given (210)
Endorse Jonathan
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have been a peer criminal defense lawyer to Jon Katz for a little under a decade. From a distance, I already knew that he was a reputable trial lawyer who is clearly on the more zealous side of the fence than the average practitioner. More recently I had personal collaboration with him regarding a mutual client with serious charges in multiple jurisdictions. Jon worked quickly and effectively to secure unusually-favorable relief for the client, and reconfirmed to me why he has the reputation that he does. I work next door to him and based on when his car is in the lot, I can safely say he is one of the hardest-working attorneys I have ever seen. He is very focused on the latest changes in the law, and he regularly enlists expert witnesses to bring the best and most novel defenses on behalf of his clients. I can safely endorse Jon as one of the most devoted trial lawyers in Northern Virginia."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Katz is one of the most knowledgeable practitioners I know. I was fortunate enough to meet him when I was a young attorney in Northern Virginia. Now that I am a practitioner in the Richmond area, I refer him all my NOVA criminal matters since I know every client will be treated with dignity and will get the best representation. I highly recommend Mr. Katz."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John has taken care of many of our clients. We always know they are in great hands. He is personable, well-respected in the community, and always gets the results that many think are sometimes impossible. I would recommend Ms. Katz for anyone looking for a great criminal defense or DUI attorney in the Virginia area."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jon is a lawyer’s lawyer. What I mean by that is he is so good at his craft that other lawyers seek to emulate him and come to him for help on novel issues. Whereas most lawyers would not openly share information, Jon is always eager to help because he is a master of his craft. He is my go-to in Northern Virginia whenever I have a friend or client in need."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jon is an exceptionally skilled attorney with extensive understanding of the law. I have watched him in action on numerous occasions, winning trials for criminal offenses and DWI offenses for his clients. He is always polite and cordial with colleagues, and gracious and understanding with his clients, but a bull dog in the court room. I full endorse Jon and his knowledge and experience in criminal and traffic defense."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jon remains a perennial leader as a lawyer, teacher and thought leader in protecting citizens from government overreach. At the same time he is a true gentleman scholar as a counselor for clients during their more difficult hardships. A career advocate for when everything matters, he has my highest confidence and endorsement as an attorney."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I recently had the privilege to attend a continuing legal education training with Jonathan. I can assure you that the attorneys in the room were committed to DUI Defense. From his business cards that show his dedication to this area of law to his experience as a co-graduate from the Trial Lawyer's College, I without a doubt recommend Jon to any person in the Fairfax area and surrounding communities. I'm confident you'd be in great hands!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Jon never gives in. He keeps at it until he gets the best results for his clients. Sometimes, that means going to trial. Other times, it means persuading the prosecutor to drop or reduce charges. Always has client's best interests dictate his approach."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I recently had the pleasure of meeting Jon Katz and was extremely impressed with his passion and dedication to his craft. He's a true criminal defense lawyer through and through. He's always up for the fight and willing to do what is right for his clients. As many lawyers would tell you, the ultimate compliment that a lawyer can give you is to either refer someone to you or hire you themselves; that's exactly what I can say about Jon. I wouldn't hesitate to refer should the need arise."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 05
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I worked for Jon Katz for several years prior to becoming a lawyer, and I had the privilege of learning and observing a true legal expert in the criminal defense world. I had the privilege of witnessing an attorney who truly went to war for his clients. Jon works tirelessly for both clients and potential clients, before they even walk through his doors for an initial consultation. From DUI/DWI or drug cases to assault or battery cases, Jon knows the law inside and out, knows how to guide his clients through the criminal defense system from start to finish, and knows how to truly counsel his clients and obtain results. I would refer any of my friends or family to Jon in a heartbeat."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jon is fully committed to helping his clients. He follows through and seemingly never rests."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jonathan Katz cares about achieving the best results for his clients. He works tirelessly and creatively, exploring each legal issue to protect his clients' rights. Mr. Katz is thorough, passionate, and brilliant. I highly endorse him as a fellow practitioner of criminal defense."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I readily endorse Jon Katz. He is a skilled attorney, a tireless advocate, and brings creative solutions that he tailors to his clients' individual needs. He definitely goes the extra mile to achieve the best results possible."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jon is a smart attorney and a sincere guy who always fights hard for his clients. I endorse him."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Jon is a hard worker, cares about his clients, and is well known for his willingness to push prosecutors for just results. He's also not afraid to try a case. If I were charged, I'd be lucky to have him on my side!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"What can I say about Mr. Katz that hasn't already been said by other attorneys? Not much. So I apologize if I repeat something you have read about Mr. Katz before. Mr. Katz is a tenacious fighter and defender of your civil rights and liberties. Sure he is extremely knowledgeable about the law, but it’s the way he defends others with his level of commitment, enthusiasm and creativity that sets him apart. He is respected by the legal community. He shares ideas and defenses to help other attorneys which is a bigger deal than one might suspect. He will stick his neck out time and time again to voice an unpopular position if he firmly believes in it. Accordingly, he has my utmost respect and endorsement. Chris"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I wholeheartedly endorse Jon. As an experienced attorney Jon brings a wealth of knowledge to his cases. He always provides sound and balanced advice, putting the interests of his clients' first."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jon is a true professional who goes the extra mile for his clients. Highly recommend!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jon is an excellent lawyer. He not only represents his clients well but he inspires fellow lawyers in the community like me. There is no doubt that Jon will take every case seriously and he has the experience and the knowledge to win. Our community is lucky to have him. Kudos Jon!"
Litigation Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jonathan is a great litigator and an even better person. He has the rare ability to stay calm and collected the face of tough litigation and adversity. He's definitely someone you want on your side at a trial!"
View more endorsements
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