There’s nothing mysterious or magical about the success of Cobb & Gonzalez, one of the most respected law firms in Florida. According to managing partner Christopher M. Cobb, it’s simply a matter of straightforward planning built on a foundation of integrity and hard work.
“Our philosophy can be summed up in three simple points,” he says. “First, show up. And when I say ‘show up’ of course I mean you bring your A-game; it’s a mindset more than anything. That leads to the second point which is to do amazing work. And finally, point three is to enter your time in daily.
“Everyone works well together in our office,” he adds, “If there are high-level discussions where people disagree, it’s all handled very professionally and with great respect.”
Cobb & Gonzalez is a law firm of forward-thinking, tech-savvy legal professionals dedicated to helping its clients achieve their business goals. Driven by a commitment to service and client interests, the professionals at Cobb & Gonzalez are trial-ready advocates, skilled in providing creative and efficient counsel throughout the legal process. Each case is approached uniquely, with tailored strategies designed to meet their clients’ specific objectives.
Like Minded Professionals
From the outset Co-Founders Chris Cobb and James Gonzalez seem to have a lot in common. They first became acquainted across the aisle as opposing counsel in complex construction cases. Through these encounters, a great mutual respect developed between them which inevitably led to a lasting friendship. As they became better acquainted the two learned they shared many of the same interests as well as their business philosophy.
“We interacted professionally for a while,” says Cobb, “and after a while became better acquainted on a personal level by playing softball with the Jacksonville Bar Association. Each of us played baseball and when you get two guys together who’ve played ball, they tend to recognize that talent in the other. Bonding over those experiences we were soon socializing and building a great friendship.
“James’ career path took him a number of places and when he returned in 2018 he reached out and we worked together for a while,” he continues. “Very shortly after that we were able to put together offices and were very fortunate to grow rather quickly.”
Actually, the growth of Cobb & Gonzalez has been exceptional. So much so that they’ve been included on the 50 Fastest Growing Companies list for two consecutive years.
Not only do their philosophies mesh perfectly, but the areas of law each practices complement one another as well. Gonzalez specializes in construction litigation, business litigation, business transactions, government contracts, and estate planning. With over a decade of experience, he has guided businesses and design professionals on business governance and compliance, contract dispute resolutions, and negotiations. He has assisted clients through the complexities of litigation, providing pre-litigation counseling and handling both the prosecution and defense of claims. His MBA background has enabled him to broaden his practice to include litigation management and strategies, business counseling, estate planning, and business planning. He is also a judge advocate general in the United States Air Force Reserve with the rank of Major.
Cobb, on the other hand, specializes in construction law, community association law, business litigation, and real estate litigation. Recognized as an expert in construction law, he became a board certified construction attorney by The Florida Bar in 2009. In 2017, Cobb served as the chairman of the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. For many years, construction companies, community associations, and businesses have relied on Cobb for guidance on legal and operational needs. Navigating the complex laws and regulations that govern these sectors, Cobb excels at analyzing details to develop practical and realistic solutions that help his clients address their concerns and achieve their goals.
The talents of these co-founders are bolstered by a team of skilled and dedicated attorneys including partners Adam Edgecombe, Hans Wahl, Nicholas Elder, Brad Hughes, Amanda Podlucky and Jay Watson, as well as Cobb’s father, William F. Cobb (a.k.a. “Pops”) who serves as Of Counsel.
“We really have a group of lawyers who demonstrate a high level professionalism and incredible talent. More importantly, all of them are really great people,” Gonzalez said.
Best Workplace
One of the best indicators of a successful firm, or any business for that matter, is its culture. Happy and appreciated employees naturally share their positive energy with clients, and this is true for the team at Cobb & Gonzalez. Longevity and a congenial atmosphere are hallmarks of the firm. There’s an easy flow among the team, with an open-door policy that encourages collaboration. Attorneys freely share ideas and consistently seek the opinions and advice of their colleagues.
According to Cobb, this environment was intentionally and purposefully cultivated. Building and maintaining a healthy, convivial workplace is of utmost importance. Their efforts have clearly paid off, as evidenced by the firm being named one of the Best Places to Work three times since 2019.
“Happy people are generally productive people,” says Cobb. “I know that we’ve attracted people who have come from less than ideal work environments and are seeking what we have created here. It’s a calm and friendly atmosphere with none of the inner-office conflict you often find.”
“We like self-starters, those who take initiative, and we reward those who are adept at problem solving. We admire and acknowledge those who don’t just come to us with problems but who also suggest solutions,” Gonzalez says. “There’s no internal competition, we’re a team all going in the same direction.
“One of the coolest things as an owner is to stand in my office doorway and look up and down the hall to see lawyers in each other’s offices talking and strategizing, the office sort of takes on a life of its own and its really cool to see and experience,” Cobb says. “Every case in our firm is assigned two lawyers so if you’re not communicating and consulting with other team members then you’re not taking full advantage of the ideas and advice available.”
New Vistas
Cobb & Gonzalez’s growth is highlighted by the recent opening of new offices in Orlando. This expansion aims to serve more clients and improve accessibility across other areas of Florida.
“We are excited to extend our legal expertise to Central Florida, including our new general liability practice group led by partner Amanda Podlucky,” says Cobb. “Our dedicated team is eager to serve and support more clients in this growing community, bringing our unwavering commitment to excellence and personalized legal services.”
As the firm continues to grow, Cobb notes that ongoing training and frequent meetings designed to discuss and share ideas not only helps everyone improve but bolsters the feeling of camaraderie and teamwork.
Attorney at Law Magazine asked Cobb, who was recently recognized by Florida Trend Legal Elite as a Notable Managing Partner what advice he might offer young attorneys.
“Remember that your personal reputation is a lot greater than any one case you might be working on,” he offers. “Don’t cut corners. Tell the truth, or at least don’t lie. Don’t fight with opposing counsel, be respectful and answer your phone!”
