Pragmatic, tenacious, and trusted, Paul A. Wilhelm is a seasoned attorney who helps employers, plan sponsors, and service providers resolve complex workplace and benefits-related disputes with clarity, confidence, and efficiency. With more than two decades of experience advocating for companies across the country, Paul is a trusted advisor to clients facing high-stakes litigation and sensitive employment matters that demand both strategic insight and focused execution.

Paul represents regional and national employers in a wide range of employment and employee benefits litigation, including ERISA disputes, wage-and-hour claims, noncompete and trade secret matters, and allegations of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Known for his thoughtful and measured approach, Paul combines deep technical knowledge with strong courtroom advocacy to guide clients from initial assessment through final resolution — whether through fact-finding, written and oral advocacy, negotiation, trial, settlement, or motion practice.

Having litigated in more than 15 states, Paul frequently manages matters across jurisdictions and works closely with local counsel (where needed) to ensure consistency and quality in every forum. His experience spans both individual and class claims, enabling him to respond effectively to today’s evolving legal and regulatory landscape while delivering results aligned with client business goals.

Before joining Barnes & Thornburg, Paul practiced at two nationally respected law firms for more than 20 years, earning a reputation for excellence and leadership. He began his career at a prominent regional firm, where he developed a strong foundation in complex employment disputes.

Paul is also active in the legal community. He has served as chair of the ERISA Litigation Subcommittee within DRI’s Employment and Labor Law Committee and has contributed to Michigan state bar and national defense bar publications. He has also held leadership roles within the University of Notre Dame alumni network, including serving as president of both the Notre Dame Club of Detroit and the Notre Dame Club of Grand Rapids, as well as co-leading the Notre Dame Lawyers Committees in both cities. Under his leadership, those organizations received multiple national awards for service and excellence.

Credentials

Education

  • Notre Dame Law School, J.D., 2002
  • Vanderbilt University, M.A., Religion, 1999
  • University of Michigan, B.A., History, 1997, with distinction

Bar Admissions

  • Michigan
  • Kentucky
  • Ohio

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
  • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio
  • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky
  • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
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