Greenberg Traurig Co-Founder Larry Hoffman, Who Reshaped Law Firm Management, Dies at 95

Key Points:

• Larry Hoffman, co-founder of Greenberg Traurig, passed away at age 95.

• Helped grow the firm into a global legal powerhouse with 2,850 lawyers in 49 offices.

• Pioneered running law firms like businesses—separating legal practice from operational management.

Larry J. Hoffman, a key figure in American legal history and one of the three founding partners of Greenberg Traurig, has passed away at 95. Known for his transformative impact on law firm management and deep philanthropic commitments, Hoffman leaves behind a formidable legacy in both business and civic leadership. 

A Legal Visionary with Business Savvy

Larry Hoffman co-founded Greenberg Traurig in 1967 in Miami, alongside Mel Greenberg and Robert H. Traurig. Under his leadership, the firm grew from a regional practice into one of the largest law firms in the world, now employing over 2,850 attorneys across 49 offices on four continents. Hoffman was among the first in the legal industry to introduce a business-oriented model to law firm operations. He believed in separating legal work from business management, bringing in experienced professionals to oversee the firm’s operations so attorneys could focus on practicing law. This forward-thinking approach became a model that many other large firms eventually followed.

South Florida Roots, Global Impact

Despite Greenberg Traurig's global expansion, its roots remained firmly planted in South Florida. The firm currently has 681 employees in the region and holds the top spot on the Business Journal’s list of the area's largest law firms. Hoffman himself was a lifelong Floridian, having graduated from the University of Florida and later from the University of Miami School of Law. His connection to the local community never waned, even as the firm expanded across continents.

Philanthropy and Legacy

Beyond his impact on the legal industry, Hoffman was a committed philanthropist. He supported numerous civic and cultural organizations in Miami, including the Chapman Partnership and the Pérez Art Museum Miami. In recognition of his contributions, Greenberg Traurig established several initiatives at the University of Miami School of Law in his honor. These include a distinguished professorship, a startup practicum, and a leadership symposium—all aimed at nurturing the next generation of legal professionals.

Family and Funeral

Hoffman is survived by his wife, Debi, and their four children: Lisa, Kenneth (Hillary), Heidi, and Mark (Maia). He also leaves behind ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. His funeral is scheduled for Sunday at Temple Beth Am in Pinecrest, Florida.

A Generational Lawyer

Larry Hoffman’s life and legacy are deeply etched into the DNA of Greenberg Traurig and the broader legal community. His vision of modern law firm management, combined with his philanthropic endeavors and commitment to legal education, will continue to influence generations of lawyers and leaders to come.