Malcolm J. Gross, partner with Gross McGinley.

Malcolm Gross, Gross McGinley

Gross has dedicated his life to the profession, building a successful career as a tough litigator and a reputation for being a pioneer in his field. Over his lifetime, Gross has become a well-respected and admired member of the legal community. His commitment to service and pioneering spirit has resulted in an inspiring legal career spanning over five decades.

Over the years, Gross started taking on more and more cases involving the rights of the media and his First Amendment practice expanded. In the '80s and '90s, Pennsylvania adopted “Reporter's Privilege” in addition to its “Shield Law,” grounded in the First Amendment. Newspapers, reporters and other media outlets were fighting to gain access to information and Gross represented them in matters pertaining to defamation, subpoenas, freedom of information issues and more. Under the current administration, the rights of the press have come into question, with several major news outlets under political fire. This is nothing new in our nation's history and Gross was at the forefront of significant cases in Pennsylvania involving the rights of the press. 

Gross continues to lecture and write on First Amendment and Constitutional Law topics as well as the Sunshine Act. He frequently speaks to bar associations and community organizations and has taught Media and Publishing Law at Muhlenberg College and Lehigh University.

The legal profession is constantly evolving and that evolution only seems to have accelerated in recent years. What's the biggest change you've seen in the profession during your career?

Technology continues to advance exponentially and has added greatly to the speed and additional pressure on litigation, client relations, and inter-firm relations. While I feel technology has added greatly to the efficiency of the legal practice, I also feel it is important to not lose sight of the traditional elements of legal service that encourage client loyalty and lasting relationships. This includes a strong foundation of legal knowledge and acumen, face-to-face interactions with clients and colleagues, and strong ethical principles.

What is one thing about the profession that has remained unchanged over the years?

The intellectual challenge, stimulated with every day of work as an attorney. The law continues to be fascinating and enjoyable. I feel this is one of the main driving factors that keeps me engaged in my legal practice, as both an attorney and litigation teammate with in my firm.

Name one thing you've learned over the course of your career that you wish you knew as a young lawyer.

Don't rush client relations. If you develop them carefully and consistently, they will have a much sounder foundation and be long-lasting.