Joshua M Watkins, Partner

Practice Areas

Corporate Transactions & Finance; Real Estate; Civil Litigation; Taxation

Contact

Phone:
Office: (205) 701-5536
Email: jwatkins@burrillwatkins.com

Drawing from two decades of legal expertise, Josh specializes in providing comprehensive representation to businesses and professionals across a diverse range of practice areas. His extensive experience encompasses corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), securities, litigation, and strategic tax planning.

Professional Background:

As a trusted outside general counsel, Josh adopts a holistic approach, adeptly representing both the company and its owners. His multifaceted responsibilities encompass advising on M&A strategies, overseeing human resource matters, ensuring robust information security compliance, intellectual property strategies, and orchestrating intricate commercial and real estate transactions. Additionally, he navigates the complexities of commercial litigation, strategically plans for tax efficiency, and diligently monitors the corporation’s adherence to federal and state regulations. Josh also provides invaluable counsel to the board of directors, guiding them in fulfilling their fiduciary duties.

In his role as counsel to funds, or emerging and start-up enterprises, Josh brings vital expertise in capital formation activities. He offers invaluable insights into entity selection and structural considerations, streamlining fundraising processes, and ensuring rigorous compliance with securities regulations.

Areas of Expertise:

  • Compliance and Regulatory: Josh excels at aiding organizations in establishing and maintaining compliance with both federal and state regulations. His guidance encompasses best practices, risk mitigation, and strategic planning to keep clients ahead of regulatory shifts.
  • Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A): Renowned for his keen ability to spot opportunities and mitigate risks, Josh plays a pivotal role in orchestrating successful mergers and acquisitions for his clients. His M&A proficiency spans due diligence, contract negotiations, and post-transaction integration.
  • SEC Matters: Josh offers expert guidance on Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) compliance and regulations. His meticulous approach ensures that clients remain fully compliant with securities laws and steer clear of potential legal pitfalls.
  • Labor and Employment: With an extensive grasp of labor and employment law, Josh assists clients in navigating the intricate realm of employee relations, HR policies, and employment litigation.
  • Risk Management: Josh possesses a remarkable ability to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities within organizations. He diligently devises comprehensive risk management strategies that minimize exposure to legal, financial, and operational threats.
  • Corporate Governance: Josh excels in evaluating and mitigating contractual risks. His scrupulous contract reviews and negotiations safeguard his clients’ interests and preempt disputes.
  • Tax Planning Strategies: Josh demonstrates exceptional acumen in devising tax planning strategies that optimize clients’ financial positions while ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations.
  • Information Technology and Development Expertise: In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Josh brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in harnessing information technology to drive organizational growth. He is well-versed in IT strategy, software development, and technology deployment, helping businesses leverage digital tools for their advantage. Josh’s expertise extends to privacy regulations and cybersecurity protocols, ensuring that organizations maintain data integrity and operational efficiency in an ever-connected world.
  • Investment Fund Formation and Management: Josh possesses a wealth of experience in the formation and management of investment funds, providing clients with expert guidance to maximize their investment portfolios and strategies.
  • Real Estate Development Matters and Complex Transactions: Josh is a seasoned expert in handling multifaceted real estate development matters and guiding clients through intricate real estate transactions. His deep knowledge and experience allow him to adeptly navigate the complex legal, financial, and regulatory considerations that are inherent in these processes. Whether it’s the acquisition of land, zoning and land use regulations, or the negotiation of development agreements, Josh provides invaluable counsel to ensure successful outcomes in the realm of real estate development.


Approach and Commitment:  

Josh’s approach is firmly anchored in his unwavering commitment to comprehending his clients’ distinctive needs and hurdles. He seamlessly melds his legal proficiency with a profound comprehension of business operations to furnish pragmatic and customized solutions. Clients value his knack for simplifying intricate legal matters and furnishing practical guidance to facilitate informed decision-making.

Josh’s outstanding legal acumen, unwavering dedication to excellence, and a track record of achieving favorable results have firmly established him as a trusted advisor for organizations in search of comprehensive legal counsel. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of regulatory compliance, orchestrating intricate M&A transactions, or fortifying defenses against cyber threats, Josh stands as an unwavering advocate and strategic ally for his clients.

Personal Life:

Outside of his legal career, Mr. Watkins enjoys spending quality time with his family, which includes his wife and two children.

In his leisure moments, Mr. Watkins enjoys golfing and spending time at the lake.

  • American Health Law Association (AHLA)
  • Birmingham Bar Association (BBA)
  • American Bar Association (ABA)
  • State of Alabama
  • State of Georgia
  • State of Illinois (Pending)
  • University of Georgia School of Law, Athens, Georgia (2003) J.D.
  • University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia (2002) Macc Tax
  • University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama (1999) Accounting B.A., Cum Laude