Jerold E. Knoll, Sr.'s distinguished legal career is rooted in a deep
commitment to justice and excellence. Born in Simmesport, Louisiana,
on December 12, 1941, he has been a pillar of the legal community for
decades. Married to Jeannette Theriot Knoll, a retired Associate
Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court, Eddie is the proud father of
five sons: Triston, Eddie Jr., Sonny, Blake, and Jonathan.
After graduating
from Simmesport High School in 1959, Eddie demonstrated early
leadership as President of the Future Farmers of America for the
State of Louisiana until 1960. He pursued his higher education at
Louisiana State University and A & M College, earning an
undergraduate degree in Political Science in 1963. His legal journey
continued at Loyola University School of Law in New Orleans, where he
obtained his juris doctorate in 1966, distinguishing himself as a
member of the Delta Theta Phi legal fraternity.
Eddie's
professional affiliations reflect his dedication to legal advocacy.
As a member of esteemed organizations such as the American Bar
Association, Louisiana Bar Association, and Avoyelles Parish Bar
Association (where he served as President from 1968-1969), he has
contributed significantly to the legal profession's advancement. His
memberships in the Louisiana Association for Justice, American
Association for Justice, Worldwide Registry, and the National Trial
Lawyer further attest to his standing as a respected legal
practitioner. Admitted to practice in all Louisiana state and federal
courts, Eddie's legal acumen is renowned across the legal community.
Eddie's
illustrious career reached new heights when, at the age of 30, he was
elected as the 32nd District Attorney of Avoyelles Parish in 1972,
becoming the youngest District Attorney in Louisiana at the time. His
tenure spanned five consecutive terms, culminating in his retirement
in 2003 as the longest-tenured District Attorney in the state.
Recognized for his exemplary legal prowess, he has maintained an AV
rating with Martindale-Hubbel for over thirty years, the highest
recognition both legally and professionally bestowed upon an
attorney.
In recognition of
his contributions to the legal field, Eddie was selected to the
American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) in 2010, a testament to his
dedication to preserving the "justice of the people." His
induction as a Member of the International Academy Of Trial Lawyers
(IATL) in July 2015 underscores his stature as an elite trial lawyer
representing both plaintiffs and defense counsel in civil litigation.
Eddie Knoll's enduring legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment
to justice, integrity, and the pursuit of legal excellence.