Josh Traeger

True North Legal Group is led by its Founding Attorney, Josh Traeger. Service, helping others, and delivering world-class legal advocacy are at the core of Josh’s identity. Growing up, Josh volunteered at local homeless shelters, served as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and was honored as a United Way Volunteer of the Year. When he graduated law school, that same calling to serve led Josh into the United States Air Force. For ten years, Josh served on active duty, traveling the world and handling some of the military’s most serious legal cases. During that time, Josh was awarded multiple Meritorious Service Medals for his commitment to helping others and his dedication to justice.

But Josh knew that in order to serve others well, he needed to have a clear competitive edge. So, he focused relentlessly on improving and refining his trial advocacy skills. In law school, he was awarded a Trial Advocacy Fellowship. This competitive program required Josh to train for hundreds of hours to develop his verbal and written advocacy skills. After graduating law school, and in the first few months of his legal career, Josh received the American Association for Justice’s “Excellence in Trial Advocacy Award,” reserved for the single military officer who demonstrated the highest level of skill in criminal trials. Then, for more than six years, Josh served as an Air Force Senior Trial Counsel, traveling the world and prosecuting the military’s most difficult cases. All told, Josh has prosecuted or defended more than 200 criminal trials, including more than 150 jury trials. He leverages his refined advocacy skills and mountain of trial experience to deliver fantastic results for his clients.

As the Founding Attorney of True North Legal Group, Josh brings the same discipline and strategic mindset he honed in the courtroom to his work advising small businesses and nonprofits across Michigan. He believes legal counsel should be proactive, not reactive — helping clients avoid costly mistakes, plan for growth, and navigate complex decisions with clarity and confidence. Whether drafting key contracts, advising on governance, or resolving disputes, Josh is a trusted partner who leads with integrity, communicates clearly, and is always focused on helping clients move forward with purpose.

When he’s not busy leading True North Legal Group, Josh enjoys all the outdoor activities that Northern Michigan has to offer – mountain biking, skiing, and camping.

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, Wake Forest University
Juris Doctor, Loyola University Chicago School of Law
Philip H. Corboy Fellow in Trial Advocacy

RECOGNITION

Excellence in Trial Advocacy Award, American Association of Justice
Two-Time Recipient of Meritorious Service Medal