Robert “Bob” C. Josefsberg, a revered trial attorney, mentor, and pillar of the South Florida legal community, passed away in Coral Gables, Florida, while doing what he loved. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Bob lived a life grounded in purpose, compassion, and justice. He was described as a “true litigation hero” by his peers.
“Bob was my very close friend for over 60 years. I practiced law with him for 40 years. He was loved by everybody, he was a great friend, and he can never be replaced,” said Aaron Podhurst, Founding Partner of Podhurst Orseck.
A proud graduate of Dartmouth College and Yale Law School, he went on to shape the legal landscape of South Florida and beyond. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1962 and to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1970.
Bob devoted more than four decades of his life to Podhurst Orseck, where he served as a senior partner and handled complex white-collar criminal defense and commercial litigation. Throughout his legal career, he championed fairness, civility, and advocacy for those without a voice. While he represented high-profile clients, such as Doors frontman Jim Morrison, his proudest moments were spent defending the underdog, including pro bono clients whose lives were changed by his guidance and belief in second chances.
“Bob was a legendary lawyer, and the best trial lawyer I’ve ever seen in a courtroom. But he was an even better person because he was kind, big-hearted and always enjoyed fighting for the underdog. He also had a great sense of humor. When he called me into his office, I could never tell when he was starting to tell me a real story or was setting up a punchline for one of his jokes. I will miss him greatly,” said Peter Prieto, Head of Podhurst Orseck’s commercial litigation and class action practice.
Among his many distinctions, Bob received the Florida Bar Foundation’s Medal of Honor, the Florida Bar Tobias Simon Pro Bono Service Award, and the Dade County Bar’s David Dyer Professionalism Award. He served as General Counsel to Governor Bob Graham, an assistant U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Florida and held leadership roles in multiple legal and civic organizations, including the International Academy of Trial Lawyers.
His 1994 article on “Civility” was published in over 20 legal journals and remains widely cited today.
“Bob was a role model, not only to me personally, but to many lawyers. We’ve shared countless life milestones together and I’ll greatly miss his great humor and legal prowess. There’s no one quite like Bob Josefsberg. He leaves behind a huge void not only at our firm, but also in our community. He was incredibly compassionate. Most importantly, Bob was a family man. He was so proud of his children and grandchildren and would never miss any opportunity to be with them whether it was playing basketball, tennis, skiing, graduations, or any other family event. He was beloved and will be missed,” said Steven Marks, Managing Partner at Podhurst Orseck.
Bob believed deeply in helping others. He was extensively involved in community initiatives, particularly those aimed at preventing substance abuse among youth. He was a devoted Founding Board Member of Banyan Health Systems, formerly Spectrum, and a driving force and Chair of Friendship Circle. Bob also deeply cared for children with special needs. His legacy will continue to inspire generations through the Robert C. Josefsberg Endowed Chair in Criminal Justice Advocacy at the University of Miami School of Law.
Above all, Bob was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife Marlene; his children Amy, Kenny, Karen, and David; and their spouses. He is also survived by twelve grandchildren, their spouses, and one great-grandchild, all of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy.
Bob built his life around connection, integrity, and service. He will be remembered not just as one of the most accomplished trial lawyers, but as a mentor, a role model, a humorist, and a true gentleman.
