The Cook Group Legal Litigation Attorneys

The Cook Group Expands Legal Team with Addition of Joe Gunter and Juan Maldonado

The Cook Group is pleased to announce the addition of Joe Gunter and Juan Maldonado to the firm. Joe joins as Of Counsel, bringing extensive experience in complex litigation, while Juan joins as a Partner, further strengthening the firm’s trial and advocacy capabilities.

Joe Gunter is a seasoned trial attorney with over 25 years of experience in toxic tort, product liability, and personal injury defense. He has successfully represented clients in high-stakes, multi-week jury trials and has handled appellate matters before state courts, including the California Supreme Court. Joe has a strong track record in developing strategic defense approaches for corporations facing product liability claims, with a particular focus on asbestos litigation. His expertise in motion practice, case strategy, and mentoring attorneys makes him a valuable addition to The Cook Group, where he will play a key role in supporting the firm’s West Coast expansion.

Juan Maldonado joins The Cook Group as a Partner, bringing nearly a decade of experience in criminal litigation, investigations, and advocacy. He has handled all stages of prosecution, from pre- and post-arrest investigations to trials and appeals, managing high-profile cases involving a full range of offenses, including violent felonies and homicides. His extensive trial advocacy experience includes first-chairing multiple felony jury trials and successfully arguing a writ of habeas corpus before the New York State Appellate Court. Juan has also served as an adjunct professor, teaching trial advocacy to law students. His leadership in case assessments and litigation strategy will further strengthen The Cook Group’s trial team.

Kerryann Cook, Managing Partner of The Cook Group, shared her enthusiasm about the firm’s growth, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Joe and Juan to The Cook Group. Joe’s extensive experience in complex litigation and Juan’s impressive trial advocacy background bring tremendous value to our clients and our team. Their expertise aligns perfectly with our firm’s mission to provide exceptional legal representation while expanding our reach in key markets.”

With the addition of Joe and Juan, The Cook Group continues to enhance its litigation capabilities and expand its presence across multiple regions. The firm remains committed to providing strategic and effective legal representation to its clients.

For more information about The Cook Group and its legal team, please visit www.cookgrouplegal.com.