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.
