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Jonathan Andrew Paul
About Jonathan
Biography
Our firm focuses on the client's journey and understanding how they find themselves on the wrong side of the law. We lead with empathy and understanding, recognizing that our clients are not criminals but good-hearted, caring individuals who respect the law and want to be seen in high regard. We work with a diverse pool of clients, treating them as partners, and together, we take a proactive approach to every case.
In addition to my experience as a former NYC and Michigan prosecutor and more than a decade of practicing criminal defense, I bring a unique perspective as a doctorate researcher on the question, *“Why do good people do bad things?”* My research, combined with an Executive MBA from a top business school, enables me to approach each case not only from a legal standpoint but also with a strategic understanding of human behavior, decision-making, and personal growth. This allows me to help my clients turn their moment of crisis into an opportunity for transformation.
I don’t like using the label "criminal" for my clients. My clients typically have nothing to hide; instead, they are often frightened, embarrassed, and overwhelmed by an uncertain future. They’re concerned about the “first impression” they’ve made with law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and the court system. It can feel gut-wrenching to be “stuck,” unable to change what has happened, and feeling powerless in the face of worry and regret.
My goal is to empower every client to take control of their narrative, make a *true impression*, and demonstrate through actions—not just words—how they ended up on the wrong side of the law and, more importantly, how they’re moving forward. Nothing is more rewarding as an attorney than hearing prosecutors and judges praise my clients for taking ownership of their circumstances and showing genuine growth.
I view my role as both an attorney and a coach. Coaching is the art of facilitating another person's learning, development, and performance, and in my practice, my clients are at the center of this process. Coaching raises self-awareness and identifies choices. Through this approach, my clients uncover their own solutions, develop their skills, and change their attitudes and behaviors, turning a challenging moment in life into an opportunity for personal growth.
The goal of coaching is to close the gap between a person’s potential and their current state, and for my clients, their case becomes a moment of reflection and transformation. My clients thrive in the criminal justice system because they are mere visitors, and having the right exit strategy is the key to navigating one of the most challenging moments of their lives.
You only get one chance to handle your case. How do you want to approach it?
Practice Areas
2
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Michigan for 14 years
State: Michigan
Acquired: 2011
No misconduct found
Licensed in New York for 17 years
State: New York
Acquired: 2008
No misconduct found
Location
The Law Offices of Jonathan Paul, PLC
472 Starkweather Street, Plymouth, MI, 48170
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Jonathan Andrew Paul's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
324 Client Reviews
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Practice Areas
Criminal Defense (218)
DUI & DWI (74)
Lawsuits & Disputes (35)
Expungement (29)
Juvenile (13)
Speeding & Traffic Ticket (12)
Drug Crime (5)
Car Accidents (3)
Immigration (3)
Litigation (2)
Violent Crime (2)
Administrative Law (1)
Divorce & Separation (1)
Family (1)
Sex Crime (1)
White Collar Crime (1)
What Clients Mention
Case Results (275)
Advocacy (157)
Recommendation (140)
Responsiveness (130)
Professionalism (99)
Communication Style (89)
Practice Area Knowledge (78)
Character & Conduct (59)
General Knowledge (52)
Compassion (49)
Trustworthiness (37)
Staff & Support (28)
Cost of Services (19)
Punctuality (8)
Free Consultations (1)
Payment Plans (1)
Showing 36 - 40 of 52 reviews | General Knowledge
Posted by Michael | August 11, 2015 | DUI & DWI
True professional. Ideal role model. Phenomenal lawyer.
Jonathan will forever be a role model for me because of his professionalism, immediate responsiveness, and availability. When I met with him, it was palpable that not only did he care about my case, but he really cared about me as a person. Not only did he give me legal advice for my situation, but h...
Posted by anonymous | June 17, 2015 | Criminal Defense
Representation for Retail Fraud
I am extremely satisfied with my interaction and representation from Mr. Paul. He was very responsive when I first reached out to him and when we met I was scared, ashamed and lost. He listened, he was concerned and he was knowledgeable. This interaction had an immediate positive impact on my morale....
Posted by anonymous | June 16, 2015 | Criminal Defense
Helped get fake ID charge reduced
My son was caught using a fake ID while out of state visiting friends. I was not aware of the seriousness of this charge until discussing this with my local attorney, who recommended I contact Jonathan. Jonathan recommended some proactive steps that convinced the prosecutor that we were serious abo...
Posted by Maddie | April 03, 2015 | Criminal Defense
Very thankful to have found him
I'm a freshman at the University of Michigan and I received an MIP at a party in February. I was scared and angry and I didn't know what to do. Jonathan helped put my mind at ease and ensured me that this was just a little speed bump on in my college experience. He had me take measures before my t...
Posted by Jordan | March 18, 2015 | Criminal Defense
2nd Retail Fraud Troy MI
I was charged with my second Retail Fraud in the city of Troy. Troy does not take retail fraud lightly, because they have two malls and see it constantly. Every lawyer I consulted told me they could not keep retail fraud off my record besides Jonathan. He helped me to do what other lawyers said was ...
Jonathan Andrew Paul's Lawyer Endorsements
"Jonathan Paul is a hard working and dedicated attorney. I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Paul on a number of matters as opposing counsel. Mr. Paul is driven, fair, honest, and aggressive. I endorse this lawyer."
"When I first met John, he was beating me up as a prosecutor. When I heard John became a defense attorney, I was elated for two reasons, first that I wouldn't have to go against him any more, and two, that anybody charged with a crime an Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County have an exceptional criminal defense attorney who gets the job done. As a defense attorney, John uses his extensive experience to craft solutions to tough cases. As a fellow defense lawyer, I rely on John's advice in my own cases. If you are in Ann Arbor and are in trouble, call John, he will help you."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Jonathan Paul has a significant amount of experience in the realm of criminal law. Mr. Paul was first a prosecutor and now focuses his attention in criminal defense. This knowledge of both sides of litigation is advantageous. Mr. Paul is an excellent attorney always putting his clients first. I endorse this lawyer."
"Jonathan and I recently had a case with one another, and my experience working with him was overwhelmingly positive. He adeptly struck that all-important balance between zealously advocating for his client and maintaining professionalism with the opposing side. Jonathan was level-headed, rational, pragmatic, and creative, and these qualities were instrumental in reaching a settlement for our clients that they were both happy with. I can honestly say I look forward to the next time I have the opportunity to work with him, and I would refer a friend or family member to him without hesitation."
"Jonathan Paul Has a tremendous amount of relevant trial experience based on his experience as a prosecutor in a very busy jurisdiction. He now uses the skill and expertise to successfully defend clients charged with criminal and serious traffic matters."
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Paul is an accomplished and experienced DUI attorney. He is clearly the "go to" guy if you are in need of top tier legal representation."
"I had the opportunity of observing Jonathan represent a co-defendant in a difficult 3 count felony drug case. Through Jonathan's efforts all 3 felony counts were dismissed and client pled to a simple misdemeanor possession charge; a truly fantastic result for the client. I would without hesitation recommend Jonathan on a criminal matter."
"Jonathan is an extremely bright and talanted criminal defense lawyer. His years of experience as a prosecuting attorney in New York and Michigan has already made him a top practitioner in his field. I happily endorse Jonathan Paul."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Without hesitation or reservation do I highly endorse Andrew Paul."
"Mr. Paul is an aggressive, intelligent and effective prosecutor. He is also honest and a man of integrity. Although my case with Mr. Paul could have easily resulted in a trial, his quick thinking and fair mindedness resulted in equitable plea bargain. It was a pleasure working with him."
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Experience
Honors
2018
Rising Star, Michigan Super Lawyers
2017
Rising Star, Michigan Super Lawyers
2016
Rising Star, Michigan Super Lawyers
2015
Rising Star, Michigan Super Lawyers
2014
Rising Star, Michigan Super Lawyers
2013
Rising Star, Michigan Super Lawyers
2007
Fred L. Leckie Law Scholarship, University of Michigan Law School
2007
Odette Whipple Scholarship, University of Michigan Law School
Work Experience
2018 - 2018
Owner, The Law Offices of Jonathan Paul P.L.C
2013 - 2018
Criminal Law Attorney, Kelly & Kelly, P.C.
2012 - 2013
Attorney, Simon & Geherin
2011 - 2012
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Oakland County Prosecutor's Office
2010 - 2011
Assistant District Attorney, Kings County (Brooklyn) District Attorney
2008 - 2009
Professor, Kingsborough Community College
Associations
2017 - Present
The Institute of Continuing Legal EducationContributor/Presenter
2011 - Present
Oakland County Bar Association
2008 - Present
New York State Bar Association
Washtenaw County Bar Assoiation
Co-chair
State Bar of Michigan
Sample of Legal Cases
Oakland County Assistant Prosecutor
100 percent conviction rate
Kings County Assistant District Attorney
100 percent conviction rate
Education
2024
Northwestern University
Executive Performance Coach
2022
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Executive MBA
2007
University of Michigan Law School
Juris Doctorate
N/A
University of Michigan
Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA in Strategy)
Speaking Engagements
2012
Oakland County Prosecuting Attorney Training
Trial Advocacy
2012
Henry M. Campbell Moot Court Competition
Moot Court Competition Judge
2010
Kings County District Attorney's Office
Trial Advocacy
Publications
2017
Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)
Breakfast Basics: Handle Your First DUI Case (Seminar)
2017
Thomson Reuters
Michigan Super Lawyers
2016
Thomson Reuters
Super Lawyers Magazine
2015
MLaw Publishing
Ann Arbor Criminal Defense Playbook
2015
2015
Thomson Reuters
Super Lawyers Magazine
2014
Thomson Reuters
Super Lawyers Magazine
2013
Thomson Reuters
Super Lawyers Magazine
2012
Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)
Representing High School- & College-Age Criminal Defendants
2011
New York Law Journal
People v Messina
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
1st DUI and 1st Driving with no license in Michigan
15 Mar 2021
Q&A
What happens when I get my third oui?
19 Aug 2018
Q&A
Retail fraud 3rd degree. do i need to call in for a public defender before i go in for my court date?
16 Jul 2013
Legal Guides
Video Legal Guide
Charged with Retail Fraud Livingston County - Howell - Brighton - 53rd District Court
11 Feb 2024
Video Legal Guide
What is Retail Fraud - Clarkston Michigan 52-2 District Court - Shoplifting
11 Feb 2024
Video Legal Guide
What is Retail Fraud Troy Michigan - Clawson - 52- District Court Oakland County
10 Feb 2024