Jonathan Andrew Paul

Jonathan Andrew Paul

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 17 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Plymouth, MI
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI

472 Starkweather Street, Plymouth, MI

About Jonathan

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

As a prosecutor in New York City and Oakland County, Michigan, I prosecuted over 1000 misdemeanors and felonies. I had a perfect trial record, and now represent clients as a defense attorney.

50%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in Michigan for 14 years

State: Michigan

Acquired: 2011

Active in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in New York for 17 years

State: New York

Acquired: 2008

Currently Registered

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

5.0 /5.0

324 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 8 reviews | Punctuality

Posted by AO | May 27, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

From Panic to Purpose: Jonathan Paul Fought for My Second Chance

Jonathan Paul is the attorney you want in your corner when everything feels stacked against you. From our first call he tackled my retail fraud case head-on, treating it with the urgency and focus you’d expect for a far bigger matter. Jonathan’s close relationship with the county prosecutor earned me... a crucial grace period—time he filled with clear, actionable steps to rebuild trust and prove my commitment to change. I came to him discouraged; he countered with steady confidence, mapping out a realistic plan that turned my panic into purpose. Every check-in was prompt and personal, reminding me I wasn’t just another file on his desk. Because of his strategic guidance, I not only achieved the best possible outcome but also regained drive and purpose in life I thought I'd lost forever. If you need an advocate who makes your future his priority, Jonathan Paul is that rare professional/human-being you can trust wholeheartedly to handle your affairs.

Posted by Jacob | December 08, 2023 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Put your trust in this guy- it pays off

I am so lucky to have found Mr. Paul. The first week between my OWI incident and arraignment was a highly stressful period trying to figure out what was coming and how best to prepare for it. As soon as I contacted Jonathan I felt relief - even though he was in the middle of other work he was still a...ble to quickly respond to my emails and assure me that he was on the case for me. The first and biggest thing Jonathan did for me was help me adopt the growth mindset he outlines on his website. This helped me quickly move through my initial resistance to the consequences I was facing and take an active role in resetting the narrative of my incident as a step along a greater journey of learning/growing rather than merely being guilty of a crime. He asks a lot: sign up for a professional alcohol assessment, begin community service, attend AA 2/week, and the like. But taking these steps proactively, committing to the work, and taking the humbling learning opportunity seriously turned in to the evidence Mr. Paul used to make my case. He was always prompt and actively representing me in all court-related appearances, assisting me in making my initial plea and requesting permission for me to proceed with two out-of-state travel plans I had made prior to my incident. After a month of my following his guidelines, he successfully negotiated with the Prosecution to drop one of the two charges I was facing and greatly reduce the remaining charge. He had me assemble a document outlining all the progress I had made per his guidance and presented this to the court as well as the Probation office. The Probation office was greatly impressed with the progress I had made and recommended the court sentence me fines and no probation or jail time. During the sentencing Mr. Paul once again represented me actively and positively and the Prosecution agreed with the Probation office recommendation, acknowledging that I had already done more steps than they would have typically required. I cannot recommend this man highly enough. What he ultimately delivered is better than I could have hoped for. But even more importantly was the immediate sense of ownership and control I was awarded by having his steps outlined to follow. Put your trust in this guy- it pays off.

Posted by Joe | January 18, 2023 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Incredible legal advice and support

My experience with Jonathan Paul was outstanding. He provided me with very manageable and achievable proactive steps that changed perceptions within the court on my DUI case. He was very responsive and answered all my questions leading up to my court date. At court, he was on time and provided me wit...h invaluable support and guided me through the entire process from start to finish and helped to reduce my penalties significantly. He continues to offer support as I take the steps to resolve my case through court ordered obligations. He is a top-tier professional and I cannot recommend him strongly enough.

Posted by Michael | June 20, 2020 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Dedicated to your case - Not dedicated to win

I should have ran when I originally called his office when I was facing a pending DUI charge. Jonathan and his partner Stephanie are indeed very professional but they lack transparency and if you want updates you have to reach out to them, they don't really prioritize you even when you are spending i...n excess of $5,000 for a single case. I felt like they immediately categorized me as a drunk and when I got upset about the outcome his office provided they told me "well you shouldn't have committed a crime" really? I'm the defendant and you are my lawyer and you're going to tell me that? In addition I almost missed my hardship appeal court case because Jonathan and Stephanie didn't think it was important to tell me the correct location of the hearing. They assumed i'm a professional with the law system and I would just know..... I then had to chase Jonathan down to finally receive my hardship license from the SOS, instead of him reaching out to me with the resolution. Basically I will never get another criminal charge because I'm not a low life retard, however if something ever happens in the future, Jonathan Paul will be my last choice.

Jonathan Paul

Replied last June 20, 2020

I am responding to your review in the same way that I tell every one of my clients. We turn a negative situation into a positive moment in time. Clients come to me during one of the worst moments of their life; when a case is over and we're no longer working together, I hope that each day the client has learned something from their case, and go forward more informed and knowledgeable about making good choices in the future. It has been a year since we worked together, I hope you're in a better place now; I am glad as you say you will never get another criminal charge again. Also, glad you believed I was dedicated to your case as you put in your headline. There is no easy button for a criminal charge. It takes many layers and steps to work toward our goals. We achieved our goals together; did it take longer in some instances? Of course, but we do not control timelines of courts and the Secretary of State. When there is an update, we inform clients within minutes; when there is no update, clients are free to double-check. It was certainly frustrating to wait for the Secretary of State to act on the motion we won. As for you showing up at the wrong court for the hardship appeal, the court sends notices to all parties with the address. If a client is unsure or doesn’t receive something in the mail, they usually ask where to go; I have never had a client show up at the wrong court for this same hearing; did you being a few minutes late have any impact on the outcome? No, our motion was granted. Was it frustrating for you to go to one place and have to drive to another? Absolutely! and I’ve made it a point to remind clients of the address ever since that happened in case they don’t receive the court notice. I am not perfect, just ask my wife and kids! - but we learn from situations. I am sorry about that confusion you had and told you so that day how sorry I was that day. Nobody thinks you're a "low life" now or in the past as you put in your review - you demonstrated that what happened in your case is not a reflection of who you are - you changed the perception of your case with the police, prosecutor, judge and circuit court judge; you did a fantastic job, and I am very proud of you! We took a bad situation that you created and we developed an approach to give you a bridge and opportunity to show something outside of the four corners of the police report and criminal complaint. You did that, you changed your case in the eyes of all the key players. You were a rock star! An attorney should be straightforward and honest with a client on the facts of the case and the charges; sometimes those words are not easy to hear, but ultimately a client grows and prospers by learning from their actions and honesty from their attorney and themselves. Does the circuit court take a long time to set hearings for hardships? Yes! Does the Secretary of State take longer than they should to process that order? Absolutely! Is that extremely frustrating for a client who needs to drive? Very frustrating! Is that timetable and series of delays within my control? No I was as frustrated as you in following up with them over and over again, but my staff worked day after day to follow up and eventually made that happen. It did happen, you received a hardship license due to our victory. But I do understand it was frustrating to wait and wait during that process. We also don’t get to pick our judge, prosecutor and probation officer, but you also received a reduction in charges, and a very reasonable sentence from a tough judge. I am invested in you as a former client, and always here for you. You're entitled to giving me any review you want, and I embrace the opportunity to improve each day myself. Always here to help in anyway you need me. Jonathan

Posted by anonymous | July 10, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Proactive, knowledgable, experienced and frank. (retail fraud third degree dropped down to disorderly conduct)

I was caught on the weekend and I had to travel abroad for 15 days for a work trip on the following Monday morning. I was freaking out because I had no clue what to do and I was afraid I would have to cancel my trip. I reached out to Jonathan on Sunday and he got back to me within an hour. He assured... me that I could leave the country without any worry and he would take care of things while I was gone. We worked together even before my first court date to get things done. I liked his proactive approach which helped in getting my conviction dropped to a disorderly conduct. He was non-judgmental, supportive and quite frank throughout the process. He would always respond to my e-mails within few minutes. I highly recommend highly recommend him and his team!

See All Client Reviews

Jonathan Andrew Paul's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Jonathan
Aaron Jeffrey Boria headshot
Aaron Boria

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 14

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"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."

James Warren Amberg headshot
James Amberg

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"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."

Douglas MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sara Tower Young headshot
Sara Young

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"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."

Peter Grant Bissett headshot
Peter Bissett

Family lawyer | Feb 18

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"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."

Bob Battle headshot
Bob Battle

Criminal defense lawyer | May 21

Relationship: Friend

"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."

Michelle A. Fioravanti headshot
Michelle Fioravanti

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"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."

Scott Grabel headshot
Scott Grabel

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"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."

Barton W. Morris Jr. headshot
Barton Morris

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 15

Relationship: Worked together on 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."

Gregg J. Stark headshot
Gregg Stark

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

James Hal Medows headshot
James Medows

Government lawyer | Jul 09

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Without hesitation or reservation do I highly endorse Andrew Paul."

Loren M. Dickstein headshot
Loren Dickstein

Government lawyer | Jun 14

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"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."

View All Endorsements
Mark Douglas Wilcox headshot
Mark Wilcox

Criminal defense lawyer

Erin Colleen Flynn headshot
Erin Flynn

Family lawyer

Andrew Babnik Jr. headshot
Andrew Babnik

Estate planning lawyer

Alexander Walter Hermanowski headshot
Alexander Hermanowski

Criminal defense lawyer

Ryan M. Kelly headshot
Ryan Kelly

Family lawyer

Sara Tower Young headshot
Sara Young

Criminal defense lawyer

Karen S. Sendelbach headshot
Karen Sendelbach

Mediation lawyer

Peter Grant Bissett headshot
Peter Bissett

Family lawyer

Michael B. Kelly headshot
Michael Kelly

Criminal defense lawyer

John P. Kelly headshot
John Kelly

Estate planning lawyer

Michele D. Kelly headshot
Michele Kelly

Family lawyer

Philip Matthew Jacques headshot
Philip Jacques

Criminal defense lawyer

Nader W. Nassif headshot
Nader Nassif

Criminal defense lawyer

Bob Battle headshot
Bob Battle

DUI and DWI lawyer

Anna M. Frushour headshot
Anna Frushour

Criminal defense lawyer

Scott Grabel headshot
Scott Grabel

Criminal defense lawyer

Gregg J. Stark headshot
Gregg Stark

DUI and DWI lawyer

Benjamin J Lieberman headshot
Benjamin Lieberman

Criminal defense lawyer

James Hal Medows headshot
James Medows

Criminal defense lawyer

Barton W. Morris Jr. headshot
Barton Morris

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

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 Education

Contributor/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

See More Legal Cases

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

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

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