Known for his calm, level-headed demeanor, Joel’s ability to deconflict complex issues and clearly articulate a plan of action has been recognized throughout his legal career and during his years of service in the United States Marine Corps. Joel prides himself on being able to engage in difficult and contentious conversations, treating all parties with tact and dignity.
Joel’s experience as the Chief Legal Affairs Officer for Georgia’s largest Historically Black College and University (HBCU) has allowed him to become adept at navigating the boardroom and providing advice, guidance, and risk-mitigation strategies to multi-functional organizations based on policy and standard procedure. For nearly a decade, a large part of Joel’s practice has focused on employment discrimination, complex internal investigations, and matters involving external governmental agencies, e.g., the EEOC, GCEO, and OCR.
Joel helped draft one of the nation’s first university system-wide Title IX policy. He then conducted numerous employee training sessions throughout the University System of Georgia focused on the implementation of the new policy, the role of the Title IX Coordinator, best practices of sexual misconduct investigations, and the proper function of a hearing panel.
Joel is devoted to leadership development and his practice now focuses on local government and non-profit representation, along with education and employment law.