Brendan P. Karl Attorney At Law

Well-versed litigation attorney sharpened by training and experience as an officer and attorney in the United States Air Force JAG Corps. Offering unique skills, polished advocacy, and trustworthy counsel to navigate critical disputes.

As a seasoned litigator, Brendan P. Karl brings a wealth of experience and diverse skills to clients navigating complex disputes. With a background as a former federal prosecutor, officer, and attorney in the Department of the Air Force, he leverages a unique legal background to effectively handle matters on behalf of individuals, businesses, and government entities. Brendan’s extensive experience in state and federal courts spans from the trial level through appeals, ensuring his clients are well-represented from start to finish. Brendan strives to deeply understand each client’s particular needs so he can tailor his approach to achieve the best possible outcome.

Originally from Michigan, Brendan began his legal career working as a trial court law clerk for Florida’s judges. Additionally, Brendan’s military service led him to various locations throughout Florida, Missouri, and overseas, broadening his perspective and cultural awareness. After fulfilling his active-duty service commitment, Brendan entered private practice to successfully litigate a wide range of matters, including construction, contract, property, and business disputes.

• Notable Work
  • Defended President Donald J. Trump against legal challenges attempting to remove him from the Michigan ballot during the 2024 election cycle, securing victories in both the Michigan Court of Appeals and the Michigan Supreme Court.
  • Secured a guardian for an unaccompanied minor and persuaded the Court of Appeals to exercise discretion in making Special Immigrant Juvenile Status findings. Achieved a reversal of the trial court’s decision by demonstrating that the court had abused its discretion.
  • Resurrected a landmark negligence case before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit through strategic briefing and oral argument, persuading the panel that the District Court erred in granting summary judgment. Demonstrated that the decision failed to account for an imminent shift in Michigan Supreme Court precedent that would fundamentally reshape premises liability law.
  • Prosecuted an active duty servicemember in a federal kidnapping and aggravated assault case. Conducted a comprehensive pre-trial investigation, interviewed numerous witnesses with allegations of similar prior criminal acts, and meticulously developed the case’s theory and strategy. Delivered compelling witness examinations and a powerful closing argument, securing a conviction that led to a nearly decade-long sentence and dishonorable discharge from the Air Force.
• Recognition
  • Grand Rapids Magazine, Top Lawyer, Appellate, 2023, 2024
  • Michigan Super Lawyers, Rising Stars, 2024
  • The Joint Service Commendation Medal, 2020
• Affiliations
  • The Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies
  • The Florida Bar
  • The State Bar of Michigan
• Credentials
  • J.D., Ave Maria School of Law, 2015, cum laude
    • Ave Maria Law Review, Senior Editor
  • B.S., Hillsdale College, 2012
• Admissions
  • Florida
  • Michigan
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th and 11th Circuits
  • U.S. District Court for the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida
  • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan