The Georgia Center for Opportunity’s
Eric Cochling
Georgia’s Legal Luminary, Leading the Charge for Change
Eric’s dedication to his family and community reflects his values and enriches his professional contributions. With a blend of legal expertise, community engagement, and a passion for advocacy, Eric Cochling stands as a valuable resource for journalists seeking insights into legal and policy matters or community-driven initiatives.
Subject Matter Expertise:
The Value & Importance of Work
How Benefits Ciffs Impact the Poor
Creating Better Povery Policy
Criminal Justice & Re-Entry
Chief Program Officer and General Counsel
Eric Cochling
Eric Cochling stands as the Chief Program Officer and General Counsel at GCO, masterfully managing success sequence-focused programs and leading public policy initiatives, while offering unparalleled legal advice. His scholastic aptitude was evident early on, graduating magna cum laude from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in political science, followed by earning a juris doctorate and a master’s degree in public administration from Georgia State University. Before his tenure at GCO, Eric excelled in private practice for eight years, specializing in business formation, real estate, contract negotiations, estate planning, and civil disputes. Notably, he has played a pivotal role in shaping discussions on key legislative reforms and policy decisions in Georgia, making significant contributions that have earned him interviews with most major news outlets in the state. Eric’s commitment to community and societal improvement is highlighted through his active participation in volunteer work, including his service on the board of the Georgia Cyber Academy and as a founding board member for the Truth North Freedom Project. A dedicated family man and Georgia native, Eric’s profound influence extends beyond his professional achievements, underscoring his dedication to fostering positive change and development within his community.
Legal Luminary and Policy Pioneer
Eric Cochling leads as GCO’s Chief Program Officer and General Counsel, steering key programs and legal strategies, with a robust background in private practice encompassing business law, real estate, and more.
Academic Achiever
Graduated magna cum laude from the University of Georgia and holds a JD and MPA from Georgia State University, showcasing his commitment to education and excellence.
Voice of Authority
Recognized by major Georgia news outlets and national forums, Eric’s expertise and opinions on a variety of issues are highly sought after, reflecting his impact on public discourse. He’s addressed such audiences as Congressional committees, the American Legislative Exchange Council, and state chambers of commerce.
Community Champion
From serving on the board of the Georgia Cyber Academy to leading roles in volunteer organizations and his church, Eric’s dedication to service reflects his commitment to making a difference.
Family and Roots
A proud Georgian, Eric’s deep connection to his home state, family life, and community involvement encapsulate his personal commitment to the values he promotes professionally and publicly.
Topics:
- The importance of work
- Understanding benefits cliffs
- The struggle to reenter society after incarceration
Examples of Eric’s Work
Eric Cochling: Chief Program Officer and General Counsel
Professional Journey
Eric Cochling serves as the Chief Program Officer and General Counsel at GCO, where he leads the charge in managing success sequence-focused programs and shaping public policy initiatives. Eric’s legal acumen is backed by a juris doctorate and master’s degree in public administration from Georgia State University, complemented by a magna cum laude bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Georgia. Before his tenure at GCO, Eric honed his skills during eight years in private practice, specializing in business formation, real estate, and civil disputes. His journey also includes valuable experiences at a Washington, DC think tank and as a legislative aide in the Georgia State House of Representatives.
Media Presence and Thought Leadership
Eric’s insights have made waves across Georgia’s media landscape, with appearances on major news outlets and the publication of opinion pieces addressing a wide array of issues. His articulate commentary and expertise have positioned him as a trusted voice in the state. Beyond Georgia, Eric’s influence extends to national platforms, where he has shared his perspective with Congressional committees, the American Legislative Exchange Council, and state chambers of commerce, advocating for evidence-based solutions to complex challenges.
Community Engagement
In addition to his professional endeavors, Eric is deeply committed to community service. He has dedicated four years to serving on the board of the Georgia Cyber Academy and played a pivotal role as a founding board member for the Truth North Freedom Project, now part of Be Broken Ministries. Eric’s passion for youth development is evident through his involvement as a Cub Scout Scoutmaster and den leader. At his church, Eric leads Sunday school classes for teens and discipleship groups for men, embodying his commitment to making a positive impact outside the office.
Personal Touch
Proudly hailing from Georgia, Eric resides in Lawrenceville with his wife, Laura, and their three children.
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