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Paul D. Ziel

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Avvo Rating10
  • Idaho Falls, ID
  • Licensed for 12 years
Paul D. Ziel
Paul D. Ziel
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About Paul

Paul is a partner in the law firm of Murray, Ziel, & Johnston PLLC. His practice areas are primarily business law, general litigation, land use law, and criminal defense.  

Prior to forming Murray, Ziel, & Johnston PLLC, Paul served in several legal positions in the Idaho Falls area. He served as deputy prosecutor in Bonneville and Jefferson counties. Paul gained extensive courtroom experience as a prosecutor including trying approximately 13 jury trials and successfully prosecuting a homicide. Paul also served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Gregory S. Anderson, the Honorable Richard T. St. Clair, and the Honorable Joel E. Tingey. Paul also gained extensive experience in private practice prior to joining his current law firm. 

Paul graduated from the J. Rueben Clark School of Law at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. As a law student Paul was a Senior Editor on the BYU Journal of Public Law. Paul published two legal articles for the same journal and was an active member and volunteer of the alternative dispute resolution club. Paul also holds degrees from Brigham Young University in Economics and Ricks College in Business Management. 

Paul was born and raised in Southeastern Idaho. He is a graduate of Rigby High School. Paul enjoys serving both the legal needs and the broader needs in the community. Paul has served as the past president of the Eagle Rock Inn of Court and is a member of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society. Paul is an active volunteer in his community and church. At the present time Paul is serving as a Scout Master.  

Paul’s favorite activity in his spare time is spending time with his family. 

Practice areas

OtherDUI and DWILand use and zoningLitigationCriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 25%

    Former prosecutor with extensive felony and misdemeanor jury trial experience. Defend most felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, and child protection cases.

    13 years

  2. Litigation: 25%

    Business litigation, contract disputes, construction litigation, defamation, contested wills, medical malpractice, personal injury, etc.

    9 years

  3. Land use and zoning: 25%

    Represent multiple municipalities in zoning issues, ordinance drafting, statutory interpretation, and code enforcement. Represent individuals in boundary disputes and general land use law.

  4. DUI and DWI: 15%

  1. Guardianship: 10%

Languages spoken

Danish

Photos and videos

4434889 1420162637

Contact

770 S Woodruff Ave
address map

Murray & Ziel, PLLC

770 S Woodruff Ave
Idaho Falls, ID, 83401-5285

Office (208) 528-4188

Website

http://murrayziel.com/

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
IDAuthorized to practice law200702/04/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers3
Legal guides0
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
PartnerMurray & Ziel, PLLC2015 - Present
AttorneyBlake M. Murray, P.A.2014 - 2014
AttorneyPaul D. Ziel, LLC2011 - 2014
Deputy Prosecuting AttorneyJefferson County Prosecuting Attorney's Office2011 - 2014
Deputy Prosecuting AttorneyBonneville County Prosecuting Attorney's Office2007 - 2011
Judicial Law ClerkSeventh Judicial District, Idaho Falls, Idaho2006 - 2007
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Eagle Rock American Inn of CourtMember2006 - Present
J. Reuben Clark Law Society (Idaho Falls Chapter)Member2006 - Present
Eagle Rock American Inn of CourtPresident2011 - 2012
Eagle Rock American Inn of CourtTreasurer/Secretary2010 - 2011
Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys AssociationMember2007 - 2014
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Brigham Young University (BYU) Journal of Public LawEighteenth Century Public Humiliation Penalties in Twenty-First Century America: The "Shameful" Return of "Scarlet Letter" Punishments in U.S. v. Gementera,2005
Brigham Young University (BYU) Journal of Public LawInterstate Commerce and Intrastate Endangered Species: The Controversy and the Need for Compromise2005
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Brigham Young University - J. Reuben Clark Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2006
Brigham Young UniversityBS - Bachelor of Science2002
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Eagle Rock American Inn of CourtCross Examination2015
Jefferson County Preparedness FairWills and Estate Planning2014
Mediation in the Mainstream: From the Courthouse to the Conference RoomDomestic Violence and Mediation2012
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
State v. Granadoshttps://www.localnews8.com/news/kifi-top-story/man-gets-20-years-to-life-in-rigby-murder/58092554
Sealed Juvenile Casehttp://www.localnews8.com/video/Jefferson-County-prosecutor-threats-should-be-prosecuted/19885996

Reviews

(15)
5 Star
93%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
7%
Review Paul Ziel

Best Lawyer I have ever had.

Posted by

In 2018 I was arrested for the possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, this is a situation I had no idea how he got in my car, obviously someone I had given a ride, As a black man and an international student I was afraid that was the end, but with the help of my lawyer Mr Paul Ziel & associates, the case was dismissed and I didn’t have to do a community service, this was like a miracle to me and I am grateful, I will recommend this lawyer and not only because of the great service , but he’s fees are quite flexible and affordable.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Highly Recommend

Posted by

I was falsely accused of something horrible. I retained Paul & he got the entire thing dismissed. But during this entire process, he called me often. He reassured me, walked me through every detail that would be happening. I always felt very safe and secure. Not only that, but everyone in the courthouse gave high praise to him & said I was in very good hands. I was. Thankfully, it’s over. And no doubt, all to Paul’s credit. I will forever be grateful to him & ReAnna. The consistent contact made this whole ordeal made it less scary. His tactics for seeking the truth & his knowhow on what to do got me out of this nightmare couldn’t have gone more smoothly. So not only do I want to give him the highest review, the people at the courthouse do as well. How much better can it get if one needs an attorney. I thank him from the bottom of my heart. Paul & ReAnna are the best. I was always in good hands. I followed his advice & the truth did prevail. Another thing I’d like to say....he’s a kind, caring & good human.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Divorce

Posted by

Paul Ziel is as good as you'll find, in town get to a just and fair settlement. He handled my case for half of what another Attorney had bill me then dropped out just before trial. I'm not sure, if he even practices family law anymore. I wouldn't, you see the worst in people and it's pretty depressing. Most firms in town live off the hate and create problems to manufacture billable hours, Paul isn't that way. He works to be fair and just and is very reasonable in his billing practice and has competent help.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Highly Recommended

Posted by

I found myself in a position where I had to face the traffic court system for the first time in my life. I originally intended to go-it alone, but when looking at the worst case scenario, I decided legal help was appropriate. I'm so glad I went to Paul Ziel. He was able to maneuver through the ins and outs of the courts where I would have been totally lost. He was able to secure the outcome I was hoping for, where I'm sure I would have failed if I'd to wade through it myself.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Hands Down BEST in Town!

Posted by

Nobody likes to hire an attorney, it can be painful and tedious. Paul has been absolutely incredible, and singlehandedly rewritten years of bad experiences. At every turn, he has taken the time to make sure that I know not only what was going on in my long and drawn out case, spanning several years, but what he is doing to both represent me and my best interests all while keeping costs as low as possible. I trust Paul as I would a family member and consider him a close friend. He never lets his personal feelings cloud his professionalism and drive to get you the best possible outcome for YOU, not himself or his practice. I admire his tenacity and attention to detail, and it has paid MASSIVE dividends, in terms of results, in my case. He comes with my highest recommendation!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Absolutely 5 STAR!

Posted by

Paul Ziel has been working with us on a case for many months. He took our case when others did not want to. He was very honest in explaining what we could expect, what he thought would be the best course for our situation, and was not afraid to tell us when we were heading in a directions that would not work for our good. The most important aspect of his work for us was that he LISTENED to what we felt was true and helped us prove that. He was clear about his fees and about every other aspect of our case. We felt we could ask questions and be answered with honesty. I seldom write reviews, but I sometimes have to state openly my gratitude for the professional service that graces our life. Thank You!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

You Can't Go Wrong

Posted by

Paul was a real lifesaver! I am an out-of-state resident that was facing criminal misdemeanor charges in Idaho. Since I was out of state, I never physically met Paul... but he still treated me like I've known him his whole life. Paul knew how to attack the case right from the beginning. He remained confident throughout the whole process without making any far-reaching promises. He's intelligent and strategic. His staff and junior attorneys are also outstanding. They were always there to help answer my questions even if Paul was tied up with another case. Paul was able to get everything resolved to my satisfaction. This is the first time that I've had to hire an attorney, and I got lucky and found the best one in Idaho Falls. He has the contacts, experience, and thoughtfulness to make sure you're taken care of. Highly recommend!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great Lawyer

Posted by

I hired Paul to represent me in a criminal case. This was the first time I was ever in trouble and needed not only a lawyer but a coach. Paul and his team gave my case the attention it needed and were able to get it dismissed. Paul was straight forward and kept me informed. I highly recommend Paul if you need a lawyer
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Your Case is His Case

Posted by

When I came to Paul I needed someone who understood the gravity of my situation. I had made a mistake and it could have cost my career. As I was sitting with Paul it was evident he wanted to talk about my case and my concerns. Unlike the attorneys I had spoken to previously the talk of fees and retainers came last. It gave me great confidence that I had found someone who actually wanted to represent me and cared about my case. As my case progressed he not only handled the case but kept me informed of its progress. I had confidence throughout the case that it was in good hands. Given that so much depended on the successful outcome of the case that meant everything. It is rare that in a situation when you are in a time of need you find the right person. Paul successfully saw me through my case and provided an outcome I never expected. He protected my career and provided me great piece of mind. I recommend anyone looking for a defender to look to Paul.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Professional and thorough

Posted by

I was facing some criminal charges. Paul Zeal was very honest and explained to me all of the possible outcomes. He also explained all of my options and the possible outcomes of my decisions. He was there for me throughout my case and I feel that he was truly fighting for me.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(8)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Brian Eggleston, Child custody Attorney on Jan 26, 2018
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

My experience with Paul has always been positive. He is a smart and effective advocate. The professionalism he brings to the practice of law cannot be overstated.

Drew Pendlebury, Car accident Attorney on May 23, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Over the years I have worked with, against, and around Paul, I have come to know and respect his work ethic, his character and judgment, and his genuineness. Paul works hard for his clients, but is not abrasive in doing so, and is thus able to secure positive long-term results for his clients. As an attorney and as a person, I unequivocally endorse Paul.

Aaron Crary, Personal injury Attorney on Jan 19, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Paul's experience and knowledge of the law is a great asset to the legal community. Paul is a great lawyer and works hard for his clients.

Weston Davis, Litigation Attorney on Jun 24, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Paul is ethical, sincere, and genuinely works hard to achieve a fair result for his client. He is approachable and good at reducing unnecessary tension in litigation.

Ryan Jacobsen, Employment and labor Attorney on Jun 16, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer. Paul is an extremely knowledgeable attorney and always puts forth his best effort for his clients. Paul has been an excellent mentor to me, helping me become a better attorney.

Blake Murray, Family Attorney on May 20, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse Paul as a great attorney with a high degree of integrity and ethics. Paul and I have known each other for years and have been friends. Recently, we have gone into business together and as I have had an opportunity to get to know Paul more on a daily basis, I have become even more impressed with his skill and ability as well as his unique desire to zealously represent his clients while maintaining a high degree of integrity.

Gary Schreiner, Business Attorney on Feb 12, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Paul is a dedicated advocate with his clients' best interests in mind. His practice is characterized by intelligence and integrity. In the legal community I have never heard anyone speak about Paul with anything but the highest regard. He is an attorney with whom I would trust my own friends and family - I don't know what higher praise I could give any attorney than that.

John Cutler, DUI and DWI Attorney on Nov 24, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Paul since his years in the Prosecuting Attorney's Office in Bonneville County Idaho. Since Then Paul has added experience in Civil Litigation including Land Use, Personal Injury and Domestic Relations. This well rounded background gives Paul great insight in handling cases and in his mediation practice.

Cost

RATES
  • Hourly Rates$200-$300/hour
    RATES
    • Contingency A contingency fee is the percent of the final award a lawyer will receive as compensation. For some of these cases, lawyers will only be paid if there is a successful outcome.25%-50%
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card