Attorney Profiles

PAUL B. ADDIS

Paul B. Addis, Esq, a distinguished attorney, has spent 23 years shaping the legal landscape with his expertise and unwavering dedication to justice. Born on February 3, 1975, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, his early passion for the law guided his remarkable journey through the legal profession.

Early Life and Education:

Growing up in a close-knit family, Paul exhibited a natural inclination towards advocacy and fairness from a young age. After graduating with honors from high school, Mr. Addis graduated from DeLaSalle in 1993.  He graduated cum laude from Michigan State University in 1997 with a degree in Business Administration.  Mr. Addis continued his education in East Lansing, graduating from Michigan State University/Detroit College of Law in 2000, cum laude.  He was admitted to the Michigan State Bar the same year.  He can practice in the U.S. Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan.

Specialization and Expertise:

Paul specializes in family law, which resonated deeply with his commitment to social justice. Over the years, he honed his expertise in divorce and family law cases, earning a reputation for his meticulous approach to legal research, strategic litigation, and compassionate advocacy for his clients.

Leadership and Mentorship:

Besides his successful legal practice, Paul demonstrated leadership by actively participating in bar associations and legal committees. He is an approved mediator by the Macomb County Family Law Judges.  He also found time to mentor young attorneys, sharing his knowledge and guiding them to success. His commitment to mentorship earned him accolades from legal organizations and the respect of his peers.

Business Ownership:

Paul’s ownership of multiple businesses outside the legal field offers him a unique advantage when navigating complex business disputes. This diversified experience likely enriches his perspective and strategic approach when dealing with legal matters, particularly those entangled in intricate business scenarios.

Having a firsthand understanding of the intricacies of running various businesses provides Paul with insights that extend beyond legal technicalities. His practical knowledge in managing businesses could be invaluable in comprehending the operational, financial, and strategic elements of the disputes he handles for clients. This holistic viewpoint might aid him in devising comprehensive solutions that not only address legal aspects but also consider the broader business implications.

Furthermore, his diversified portfolio of businesses might allow him to draw parallels, identify patterns, and leverage successful strategies from one industry to another. This cross-industry experience could contribute to his ability to craft innovative and effective approaches tailored to the specific needs of each case.

Overall, Paul’s multifaceted expertise stemming from ownership of various businesses likely enhances his proficiency in resolving complex business disputes, providing a well-rounded perspective that combines legal acumen with practical business insights.

Personal Life:

In his personal life, Paul is a loving husband and a dedicated father of 3 children. His family provided unwavering support, allowing him to balance the demands of his legal career with his responsibilities at home.

Legacy and Recognition:

As Paul celebrates his 23rd year in law, his legacy is marked by a trail of legal victories, a commitment to justice, and the gratitude of countless clients whose lives he has positively impacted. His dedication to the law inspires aspiring attorneys and seasoned professionals, making him a revered figure in the legal community.

Ryan Ewles, Attorney at Law

Mr. Ryan Ewles joined The Addis Law Firm in 2023 and has become a valued and trusted member of the firm’s municipal law practice. With nearly two years of dedicated service, Ryan has built strong relationships with municipal clients across Michigan and plays a key role in helping local governments navigate complex legal issues with clarity and confidence.

Ryan’s connection to the firm runs deep. Having grown up with Paul Addis, and sharing years of schooling and athletics with the Addis family, Ryan’s long-standing personal and professional relationship with the firm’s leadership reflects the shared values of integrity, reliability, and community involvement that define The Addis Law Firm’s approach to client service.

Ryan’s municipal law practice includes assisting townships, cities, and public entities throughout Michigan. He has extensive experience drafting and revising ordinances, contracts, policies, and employment manuals, and provides legal guidance to public officials on compliance, governance, and operational matters. His practical insight into the workings of local government enables him to offer straightforward, actionable legal solutions tailored to each community’s needs.

In addition to his municipal work, Ryan maintains an active practice in insurance defense and civil litigation, and is well-versed in Michigan’s marijuana laws, a rapidly evolving area that continues to shape local zoning and regulation. He also brings experience in personal injury and civil rights litigation, giving him a broad perspective on risk management and liability issues facing municipalities.

Ryan earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and his Juris Doctor from DePaul College of Law, and was admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 2002. Known for his professionalism, responsiveness, and practical problem-solving, Ryan has become a go-to resource for municipal clients seeking knowledgeable and effective counsel.

With his combination of municipal experience, litigation background, and lifelong connection to the firm’s leadership, Ryan Ewles continues to strengthen The Addis Law Firm’s reputation for delivering insightful, dependable, and community-focused legal representation.

Daniel J. Goulette, Of Counsel

Daniel J. Goulette is a seasoned legal professional who began his career in 1990 as a sole practitioner in Clinton Township, Michigan, focusing on Real Estate, Municipal, Juvenile, Domestic, Criminal Defense, and Probate Law. His diverse expertise across multiple legal areas laid the foundation for his distinguished career.

His legal journey continued as he was appointed part-time Magistrate in 1996 at the 41B District Court, serving Clinton Township, Harrison Township, and Mt. Clemens until 2006. Even while serving as a Magistrate, Mr. Goulette maintained his private practice, allowing him to gain unique experiences sitting as a Magistrate, working as a Defense attorney, and handling Prosecutions, often all in the same day.

In January 2006, he was appointed as a full-time Magistrate at the 41B District Court, where he served the community until his retirement in March 2018. Post-retirement from the Magistrate position, he joined The Addis Law Firm, PLLC, in an “Of-Counsel” capacity, bringing 34 years of invaluable experience and legal knowledge.

Mr. Goulette’s educational background includes graduating from Mt. Clemens High School in 1976, obtaining an undergraduate degree in Political Science from Oakland University in May 1986, and earning his Law degree from the University of Detroit School of Law in May 1990. During law school, he gained experience by clerking in the Macomb County Probate Court.

A lifelong resident of the Mt. Clemens area, Mr. Goulette currently resides in Harrison Township, maintaining close ties to the community where he has lived and served throughout his extensive legal career. His wealth of experience and commitment to the law continue to contribute significantly to the legal practice at The Addis Law Firm, PLLC.

Judy Franz – Firm Administrator & Paralegal

With more than four decades of experience in the legal field, Judy Franz serves as the Firm Administrator and Paralegal at The Addis Law Firm, PLLC. She has worked alongside Paul and Albert Addis for nearly 26 years, providing the steady leadership, knowledge, and dedication that have helped shape the firm’s success.

Judy began her legal career in 1982 and has since gained extensive experience across all areas of the firm’s practice, including family law, personal injury, municipal law, civil litigation, and estate planning. Her deep understanding of legal procedures and meticulous attention to detail make her an indispensable part of the firm’s operations and client support.

As Firm Administrator, Judy oversees the daily functions of the office, ensuring that each case is handled efficiently and that clients receive the highest level of professionalism and care. Her longevity, compassion, and commitment to excellence reflect the core values of integrity and service that define The Addis Law Firm.