Josh Kolb’s practice centers on protecting the interests of businesses through all phases of litigation, from pre-suit strategy through trial and appeal. He defends the nation’s largest automobile manufacturer and automobile dealers across Missouri in breach of warranty and consumer protection actions, while also representing clients in personal injury matters involving premises and auto liability. His work extends to guiding clients through complex appellate proceedings, including matters before the Missouri Supreme Court.

With a client-focused approach, Josh has represented individuals and businesses in hundreds of cases. His deep understanding of the litigation process allows him to advise clients effectively at every stage, whether negotiating pre-suit resolutions, pursuing dispositive motions or securing favorable trial outcomes. Josh’s persuasive writing and advocacy have resulted in significant victories for his clients, including successful summary judgment rulings and defense verdicts in both jury and bench trials.

Josh’s commitment to the legal profession extends beyond his practice. He serves as a Volunteer Special Prosecutor for the St. Louis County Family Court and regularly acts as a mock trial judge for local competitions. These roles reflect his dedication to supporting the administration of justice in his community.

Prior to joining Lathrop GPM, Josh was with a prominent St. Louis-based litigation firm. Josh graduated from Saint Louis University School of Law, where he served as a Dean’s Scholar, Legal Research and Writing Teaching Assistant and Faculty Fellow. He earned his undergraduate degree from Santa Clara University. Josh resides in the St. Louis area with his wife and their two daughters.

Areas of Focus

Services

Experience

  • Supreme Court held that client’s medical records were protected by the physician-patient privilege, which she did not waive by asserting affirmative defenses that she otherwise would have forfeited had she not plead them.
  • Arbitration award in favor of Respondent where Arbitrator found there was no credible evidence presented that the vehicle was defective at time of sale.
  • Obtained defense verdict after a bench trial where Plaintiff alleged Defendant was negligent in repairing water leaks in her basement, resulting in damage. Trial judge found that Defendant properly did work that was contracted for and found the leaks were caused by other areas of the plumbing that were not within the scope of work agreed to between the plaintiff and defendant.
  • Obtained defense verdict in St. Charles County where Plaintiff alleged Defendant, while performing concrete work near his home, drove up onto and damaged plaintiff’s property. After a bench trial, Judge found Plaintiff had no claim as the alleged damaged property belonged to the City of Wentzville, who had retained insured to perform the concrete work initially.
  • Directed verdict on Plaintiff’s negligence per se claim at the close of all evidence where Plaintiff alleged that Defendant violated §300.155, RSMo., with respect to his truck on the date of the accident. Argued the directed verdict motion the trial judge held §300.155 to be inapplicable based on the evidence presented.

Credentials

Education

  • Saint Louis University School of Law (J.D., concentration in Taxation)
  • Santa Clara University (B.A., Philosophy)

Admissions

Bar Admissions

  • Missouri

Professional Activities

  • Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
  • St. Louis County Bar Association
  • Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis

Community Involvement

  • St. Louis County Family Court, Volunteer Special Prosecuting Attorney, 2012-2016