Michigan Retail Fraud Attorney

Click Here to Call: 248-924-9458

Jonathan Paul

"Attorney Jonathan Paul wrote the book on Michigan Retail Fraud" ​

Welcome to my website, which is geared toward shoplifting offenses in Michigan.  In Michigan, the crime of shoplifting is called retail fraud, and this offense is broken into different degrees: first degree, second degree and third degree.  The most common degree that I see is retail fraud in the third degree.

In order to help potential clients understand their case, and the options they have, I've authored a book on this exact subject.  My book CASE DISMISSED: How to Win Your Retail Fraud Case: A Proactive Approach to Criminal Defense is the only Retail Fraud book in Michigan, and is a comprehensive look at the crime, the consequences, but most importantly how to move forward, and get the best result for your case, both inside and outside the courtroom.  

As a former prosecutor in New York City, and here in Michigan, I handled thousands of shoplifting cases, but it was not until I entered private practice that I really understood this unique offense.  I've worked with nurses, doctors, teachers, executives, stay-at-home moms, students, and clients from all different careers, races and genders.  It's always amazing to see the diverse pool of clients that contact me for help with their Retail Fraud cases. 

I educate and lecture on criminal defense with ICLE (Institute of Continuing Legal Education) for other Michigan attorneys looking to improve their own knowledge and career success. 

The typical client that contacts me has never been in trouble with the law before, and all of a sudden finds themselves facing serious theft charges at the courthouse with little clue how to proceed.  The client tells me that they deeply regret what happened, and they cannot afford to have this go on their record.  I explain to them that I see their type of case everyday, and I have developed a proactive approach to assist them in their time of need. 

I've been selected and recognized in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018 by Super Lawyers Magazine; the prestigious magazine selects the top 2.5 percent of attorneys in Michigan, and in my opinion is the gold standard for attorney rankings. My selection by Super Lawyers Magazine was featured in Hour Detroit Magazine and the New York Times. My work as a Michigan criminal defense lawyer has also earned me a "Superb" 10.0 Avvo Rating.  

Our proactive approach has been developed over many years of representing clients charged with Retail Fraud.  Based on my own experience as a prosecutor, and working with hundreds of different judges and prosecutors, I've pinpointed the steps that my clients need to take in order to put themselves in the best situation to handle their case.  Generally, our #1 goal is to keep the crime of Retail Fraud off of my client's record.  

The crime of Retail Fraud can jeopardize a client's career, and future promotions and job opportunities.  A nurse, lawyer or doctor could lose their professional license to practice their profession, or a school teacher could be fired due to a theft crime on their record.  A stay-at-home mom could be out of the workforce for five years with the goal of re-entering the job market in the near future, but now has the burden of a criminal record to compound a give year gap in a resume.  A student about to graduate into the job market or apply for grad school suddenly has to answer "yes" on an application to the question about a criminal record.  

I've worked with these clients, and they have the same questions and concerns.  From this experience, I continue to enhance and perfect my program.  We tell all potential clients that we are very selective in we agree to take on as a client, and our program requires dedication.  Most clients who contact us and review our requirements will agree to my terms and requirements, because they are motivated to change the story of their case. 

When charged with Retail Fraud in Michigan, the police, prosecutor, judge and the community at large are viewing you as a thief; a dishonest person who made the selfish decision to steal.  Most companies won't even review a job application if an applicant has been convicted of a crime of theft and dishonesty as this person can no longer be trusted to perform a job.  

Our program allows the client to take control of this situation, and prevent it from spinning out of control.  Our client is empowered to change the story of their case, showing that an isolated moment in their life is not worthy of labeling them a criminal forever.  If our client can demonstrate that the charged crime is NOT who my client really is, then our client is able to keep this offense off of their record.  This result can be accomplished either with a reduction or dismissal of charges.  Once I speak to a potential client about their individual case and position in life, we're able to come up with a comprehensive approach, and work toward the desired result.   I look forward to discussing you unique case, and setting goals that we can reach together.  

To discuss your case,  give me a call at 248-924-9458 or email me.  I am available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year.  It may take me a moment to get back to you as I may be in court or with my family, but I will do my best to respond within this time frame.  ​