One Team. Focus. Purpose.
We are trial attorneys—allied in purpose.
One Team. Focus. Purpose.
We are trial attorneys—allied in purpose.
Michigan-Born, Chicago-Educated, Trench-Trained
R.J. Cronkhite
Raised in a working class family on the outskirts of Detroit, R.J. used intelligence, ingenuity, and hard work to overcome hardship—principles that now define his legal style.
For over a decade, R.J. has litigated, negotiated, and settled business disputes for a variety of firms—ranging from a small local firm to a national Am Law 200, and everything in between. In doing so, he has seen what works for clients. And what doesn’t.
Competition law, employment law, and trial specialists.
From Innovation to Resolution. We’ve Got You Covered.
Protecting Your Ideas. Vindicating Your Rights.
Areas of Expertise
- All
- Competition Law
- Workforce Management
Trials
We devote our practice to the art of trial work—an increasingly rare skill in today’s legal market.
Non-Competition Covenants
Protect your business with enforceable non-competition covenants tailored to safeguard your interests and growth.
Non-Solicitation Covenants
Safeguard your business relationships with expertly crafted non-solicitation covenants to protect clients and employees.
Unfair Competition
Protect your business from deceptive practices with legal solutions tailored to combat unfair competition effectively.
IP Theft & Infringement
Defend your intellectual property with expert legal strategies to address theft, infringement, and protect your rights.
Terminations and Discipline
Navigate employee terminations and discipline with confidence using legal guidance that ensures compliance and protects your business.
Investigations
Conduct thorough and compliant workplace investigations with expert legal guidance to protect your business and resolve issues effectively.
Employee Contracts & Policies
Ensure compliance and clarity with expertly drafted employee contracts and policies tailored to protect your business and employees.
Testimonials
At Cronkhite Counsel, we are our clients’ advocates and allies. We do not waver. Read what our clients have to say about us in their own words.
It feels as though he is fighting for you as hard as he would fight for himself
If you’re looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares, is incredibly skilled, and will fight for you with everything they’ve got, R.J. is the one to choose.
I have had the privilege of working with R.J. on a civil dispute regarding ownership against my former company, and I cannot speak highly enough about his professionalism, dedication, and expertise.
From the very beginning, R.J. demonstrated a genuine care for my case. It’s clear that he isn’t just going through the motions – he truly invests himself in his clients’ success. His commitment is reflected not only in his work but also in the level of attention and care he provides throughout the entire process. It feels as though he is fighting for you as hard as he would fight for himself.
Above all, R.J.’s fighting spirit is unmatched. He goes above and beyond, working tirelessly for the best possible outcome. He doesn’t back down – it’s clear he’s in your corner every step of the way.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares, is incredibly skilled, and will fight for you with everything they’ve got, R.J. is the one to choose. I wholeheartedly recommend him!
- Ish S.
In court, he demonstrated poise and effectively argued my case in front of the judge
He was patient, and compassionate, but also “no nonsense."
R.J. assisted me with a contract dispute. When he took on my case he hit the ground running. I felt like I was his only client. He returned calls promptly, explained legal option in language that I (a layperson) could understand. He was patient, and compassionate, but also “no nonsense.”
It became clear to me immediately that his professional strengths are in his impressive writing skills, and his thorough case law research. In court, he demonstrated poise and effectively argued my case in front of the judge.
I have known many attorneys throughout the years, but have rarely worked with an attorney that has so many areas of strength. R.J. achieved a great result in my case! I was fortunate to have him represent me.
- Sara H.
R.J. and his team are stellar
I could not have asked for a better partnership.
R.J. and his team are stellar. I could not have asked for a better partnership. Communication is clear and concise. They are efficient and dedicated to client service and relations.
- Rich Miller, Owner of STACK Cybersecurity
The best lawyer I've had
R.J. has been a great lawyer for my company. The best I’ve had. But beyond that, R.J. is a fantastic person.
- Eric Hansel, Owner of Expert Lighting Group
Without the aggressive and fierce defense of R.J., I would have been bullied
R.J. saved my livelihood and my life.
I was served with paperwork from my former employer that demanded my current company to terminate me effective immediately or they would pursue a lawsuit against both my current company and myself for an alleged breach of my non-compete agreement. My current company, knowing that we were in the right, refused to terminate me. I took immediate action and contacted R.J. Cronkhite.
Not only was R.J. professional and compassionate but extremely knowledgeable and aggressively pursued my defense. R.J. told me that he took my case personally as he understood that I take care of my 5-year-old daughter and my livelihood is everything to me. R.J. was there whenever I called and explained everything to me in detail and in language that I could understand.
Without the aggressive and fierce defense of R.J. I would have been bullied by my former employer and counsel and not only potentially lost my livelihood but a lawsuit as well. Mr. Cronkhite followed up with me afterwards to ensure that I was ok and informed me to reach out to him if I have any questions or concerns. If anyone is having legal issues I strongly encourage you to reach out to R.J. immediately.
- Mike A.
Exemplifies what an outstanding lawyer is
R.J. was extremely helpful with guiding me in the right direction
R.J. was extremely helpful with guiding me in the right direction. He walked me through, step by step and was always available to advise me all the way through. He knew the laws that applied to my case and did not allow me to be dissuaded by the defendants. R.J. is an outstanding attorney of law. R.J. exemplifies what an outstanding lawyer is and raises the bar to a level of excellence only few attorneys can hope to reach.
- William V.
Dedicated, Honest, & Intelligent
R.J. helped us keep our home from being razed by our municipality for trivial issues.
We involved R.J. after it became clear that the municipality was determined to destroy our home. R.J. immediately and aggressively went after the municipality, backed them down into a reasonable position, and saved our home. R.J. clearly cared about what happened to us and got an amazing result! We strongly recommend him.
- Patrick M.
Meet Our Founder
R.J. Cronkhite
Principal Attorney
Raised in a working class family on the outskirts of Detroit, R.J. used intelligence, ingenuity, and hard work to overcome hardship—principles that now define his legal style. After graduating from the University of Chicago Law School, R.J. rapidly advanced through a number of well-respected law firms, learning the tools and tricks of the trade. In 2024, R.J. founded Cronkhite Counsel PLLC, where he applies his unique legal philosophy and approach to achieve optimal results for his clients.
Latest News & Insights
Stay informed with expert legal insights. Our blog covers the latest trends, case studies, and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of the law with confidence.
- Customer Diversion, Fiduciary Duties, Tortious Interference, Unfair Competition
- Arbitration, Class Actions, Employment Agreement, FLSA