Joseph J. Kunkel

Joseph J. Kunkel has been an associate criminal defense attorney at Luftman, Heck & Associates since June 2013, where he focuses on criminal law and OVI / DUI defense. Prior to joining the firm, he gained experience as an associate attorney at a Newark, Ohio law firm and as a law clerk in Columbus, Ohio.

Joseph's academic journey began at McDonald High School near Youngstown, Ohio. He then pursued his undergraduate studies at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, majoring in Pre-Law and Political Science. During his time at OU, he was an active member of the varsity men’s Track and Cross Country teams.

After completing his bachelor's degree, Joseph attended law school at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio. There, he earned a certificate of achievement in criminal law and won first place in the Burke E. Smith mock trial competition. His law school experience was enriched by judicial externships in Van Wert and Franklin Counties, alongside internships with public defenders at both municipal and federal levels. These roles provided him with extensive experience in researching and writing judicial opinions, as well as representing indigent defendants in court.