We have not found any cost information for this lawyer
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?
2
Practice Areas
We have not found any cost information for this lawyer
Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.
Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.
Chat withState: Michigan
Acquired: 2011
No misconduct found
State: New York
Acquired: 2008
No misconduct found
472 Starkweather Street, Plymouth, MI, 48170
Showing 1 - 5 of 317 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | December 29, 2025 | Hired Attorney
Jonathan responded within minutes of my inquiry through his website. Over the past few months, he has guided me through my OWI case and helped secure a favorable outcome. He is direct and honest—two qualities that are essential in an attorney and that immediately earned my trust. Jonathan was always ...
Posted by Kris | December 8, 2025 | Hired Attorney
I can’t say enough good things about my experience working with Jonathan Paul and team. They are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely care about their clients. Jonathan's background as a former prosecutor gives him a deep understanding of how the system works, which made a huge differ...
Posted by anonymous | December 2, 2025 | Hired Attorney
I really thankful about Jonathan Paul exceptional all hard work on my case for getting my case dismissed during first court date. The dismissal of my case is a direct result of his skill, preparation, and dedication. I’m deeply grateful for his expertise, professionalism, and dedication in achieving ...
Posted by AD | November 30, 2025 | Hired Attorney
HIRE Jonathan as fast as you can! He was excellent from the first minute I sent him a message. I hired him for a retail fraud case and he exceeded my expectations for an attorney. His communication, compassion, knowledge and diligence ended my case with a dismissal. He not only makes you NOT feel...
Posted by Nancy | November 17, 2025 | Hired Attorney
Jonathan guided me through an incredibly difficult time with professionalism, compassion, and genuine care for me as a person. He was consistently responsive to my emails and questions, always making sure I felt informed and supported. The outcome of my case exceeded anything I could have hoped for. ...
"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."
"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."
"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."
Criminal defense lawyer
Family lawyer
Estate planning lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Family lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Mediation lawyer
Family lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Estate planning lawyer
Family lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
DUI and DWI lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
DUI and DWI lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
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
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
2017 - Present
The Institute of Continuing Legal EducationContributor/Presenter
2011 - Present
Oakland County Bar Association
2008 - Present
New York State Bar Association
Co-chair
100 percent conviction rate
100 percent conviction rate
2024
Executive Performance Coach
2022
Executive MBA
2007
Juris Doctorate
N/A
Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA in Strategy)
2012
Trial Advocacy
2012
2010
Trial Advocacy
2017
2017
2016
2015
2015
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
English
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
1st DUI and 1st Driving with no license in Michigan
15 Mar 2021
What happens when I get my third oui?
19 Aug 2018
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
Charged with Retail Fraud Livingston County - Howell - Brighton - 53rd District Court
11 Feb 2024
What is Retail Fraud - Clarkston Michigan 52-2 District Court - Shoplifting
11 Feb 2024
What is Retail Fraud Troy Michigan - Clawson - 52- District Court Oakland County
10 Feb 2024