Executive-2018-fall-winter

O ne of the oldest law firms in Gwinnett County is getting an update. Webb, Tanner & Powell, a general-practice law firm that has operated in the City of Lawrenceville since 1929, became Powell & Edwards on September 1. The name change is keeping with tradition, as the firm has always changed its name to reflect the acting principals. As long-practicing partners Jones Webb and Bill Tanner retire from legal practice, the new name reflects the firm’s current shareholders, Tony Powell, Nathan Powell and Brian Edwards. In addition to changing its name, the firm is also refreshing its approach to business. “We are a lot more modern than we have been in the past,” said Tony Powell. “The firm is more social-media friendly and technologically up to date.” He also said that the firm as a whole is much younger than it has been in more than 30 years. Though modernizing is necessary to stay relevant, Powell said the core character of Powell & Edwards will remain the same. “There is a family culture within our business that we treasure,” he said. Employees and clients are loyal to the firm and, in turn, the firm is loyal to the community. Even at its outset in 1929, firm founder Marvin Allison dedicated himself not only to practicing law, but also investing in the success of the Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County community. He started a newspaper, helped create the Chamber of Commerce and helped build Gwinnett County Federal Savings and Loan. As his company grew, Allison added like-minded partners who built the foundations of the Gwinnett County hospital system and aided in the integration of the public school system in the 1960s. “Allison created a culture of caring at this firm that has lasted,” Powell said. Today, Powell follows Allison’s legacy by serving as council member for the City of Lawrenceville and continuing his firm’s involvement in the Gwinnett Chamber and the Chairman’s Club. He has initiated and guided the urbanization of Lawrenceville and has served as legal counsel for several municipalities around the County for more than 25 years. “Our vision is to dig our roots deeper here,” Powell said. “This is the place we call home and we want it to thrive.” Powell said he is honored by the community’s deep trust, as demonstrated by 90 years of successful business in Gwinnett County. “Our clients know we will be there for them. We are faithful in helping them when they need help and listening to them,” he said. “We never look to the short term in our relationships or assign dollar values to our friends. That’s not our culture. We’re planning to be around for the next 90 years.” Powell & Edwards is off to a good start on the next 90 years; the firm is planning to grow and diversify its services HISTORIC LAW FIRM CHANGES NAME BUT NOT COMMITMENT TO GWINNETT COUNTY as well as its staff. In the near future, the firm will move to a new mixed-use building where Powell & Edwards will occupy the middle floors with a restaurant operating below them and living space above. “That kind of urban environment enlivens the community,” Powell said. “It’s good for our practice to have a vibrant community. Vibrant communities grow vibrant economies where businesses and law firms thrive.” the EXECUTIVE 1