We are deeply saddened to report the passing of Larry Hoffman, a luminary in the legal field and one of the founding partners of the prestigious Am Law 100 firm, Greenberg Traurig. Hoffman, who recently passed away in Florida at the age of 95, leaves behind a legacy marked by innovation, leadership, and profound influence on the legal industry.

Over half a century ago, inspired during a simple deli lunch, Larry Hoffman, along with Mel Greenberg and Robert Traurig, laid the foundation for what would become one of the most dynamic players in the legal world. Officially established in 1967, the firm initially bore Hoffman’s name as Greenberg Traurig Hoffman, a testament to the trio's collaborative spirit. Demonstrating a unique selflessness, Hoffman later chose to remove his surname from the firm’s title, prioritizing the firm’s collective identity over personal recognition.

A graduate of the University of Miami School of Law, Hoffman was pivotal in steering the firm’s expansion from its roots in Florida to major markets along the East Coast, including New York and Washington, D.C. Under his stewardship, Greenberg Traurig evolved into a global powerhouse, now boasting over 2,850 attorneys across 49 offices worldwide, and currently ranks No. 16 on the Am Law 100 list.

Colleagues and mentees of Hoffman remember him not only for his business acumen but also for his personal virtues. Brian Duffy, CEO of Greenberg Traurig, praised Hoffman as “an incredible businessman and an even better partner and friend.” Duffy highlighted Hoffman’s empowering belief in others, which nurtured confidence and personal growth among his team.

Richard A. Rosenbaum, executive chairman of the firm, reflected on Hoffman's indelible impact, describing him as a mentor and visionary whose wisdom and instincts were crucial to the firm's success. “He was my second father,” Rosenbaum remarked, acknowledging the profound personal and professional influence Hoffman had on his life and career.

Hoffman’s passing marks the end of an era for Greenberg Traurig, as he was the last surviving member of the original founding trio, following the deaths of Traurig in 2018 and Greenberg in 1994.

Our thoughts are with Larry Hoffman’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His visionary leadership not only shaped a leading law firm but also left an indelible mark on the legal profession, fostering a legacy that will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.