LaDray B. Gilbert, JD is a distinguished public servant and legal professional, renowned for his nearly two-decade-long career in law and community activism.
Gilbert launched his law firm from humble beginnings at his mother’s kitchen table, growing it into a multimillion-dollar practice. Over his nearly 12-year legal career, he secured millions for his clients, successfully litigating against giants such as Wal-Mart, Family Dollar, and the State of Florida, never losing a jury trial.
In 2009, Gilbert made history as the youngest and only African American to establish a law firm in Jackson County, Florida, immediately following law school. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration (Marketing) from Florida A&M University and a Juris Doctor from the Florida A&M University College of Law. His contributions have significantly impacted the lives of citizens in Florida and the Southeast United States.
Recognized at the highest levels of his profession, Gilbert was named one of the nation’s Top 40 Under 40 Best Advocates by the National Bar Association in 2016. Martindale-Hubbell honored him as a “Platinum Client Champion” and “Preeminent Attorney” for his high legal and ethical standards. He was also deemed a “Rising Star” by Florida Super Lawyers and “Mr. Integrity” by the William Reece Smith Florida Bar Leadership Academy.
In Atlanta, Gilbert founded Old United Logistics, LLC, where he excels in business, legal, and political consulting. His firm has quickly become a leader in improving business efficiency and achieving desired outcomes. Gilbert also helps law firms develop successful personal injury practices and assists businesses in legal structuring and marketing.
Politically active, Gilbert has managed and consulted on numerous campaigns, including for Joe Biden, Andrew Gillum, and Gwen Graham. He has served as Vice Chair of the Florida Democratic Party and held key roles in various political organizations.
Gilbert’s community service is extensive. He has volunteered as the Presiding Judge for Jackson County Teen Court, served on the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and led the Northwest Florida Chapter of the FAMU Alumni Association. Additionally, he chaired the National Top 100 Black Lawyers Continuing Legal Education Committee and contributed to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
As a mentor, Gilbert founded the Jackson County Omega Lamplighters and The F.L.A.M.E. Academy, guiding young males and providing them with enriching educational experiences, including trips to The White House and the New England Science Symposium at Harvard Medical School.
For his volunteerism, Gilbert was named the “14th Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year” by the Florida Supreme Court and a “Distinguished Alumni” by Florida A&M University. He has been honored by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., as “Graduate Omega Man of the Year” for Alabama and continues to be respected nationally and internationally for his insights on law, education, and minority advocacy.
Currently, Gilbert serves as Co-Chair of the Mirror 100 Mentoring Program of the 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta where he was named the Inaugural “Mentor of the Year” in 2024. He also serves as the Coordinator of Programming and Outreach for the Economic Development Committee of the 100 Black Men. He is involved with the African American Wellness Agency of Atlanta as a Developmental Consultant. He has been named an Ambassador of The Greater South Fulton Chamber of Commerce.
Gilbert is also a sought-after keynote speaker, addressing audiences at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Brown, The Citadel, and UNC-Chapel Hill.
LaDray Gilbert is a proud father of two, Madison and Maddox, and the son of the late Johnnie Lee and Carnell C. Gilbert. He is the godson of Ulysses and the late Glenda Dudley.