Partner • Phelps Dunbar
A construction dispute can stretch from a jobsite to a courtroom hundreds of miles away. Anthony Gambino Jr. has followed those cases—and learned to lead them.
The Phelps Dunbar construction lawyer has amassed experience in 18 trials and arbitrations, including two trials as first chair. His work represents owners, designers, contractors and subcontractors navigating conflicts that can threaten projects and the businesses behind them.
In one three-week arbitration involving a West Virginia methanol facility, he served as second chair and helped secure damages for a general contractor facing termination, penalties and unpaid work. He became a partner in 2025 after seven years at the firm.
Gambino also invests in the profession’s next generation. He coached Baton Rouge Magnet High School’s mock trial team, which earned a regional second-place finish, and mentors younger attorneys through courtroom experience.
As a Capital Area Finance Authority trustee, his service reaches housing and economic development.
A leadership lesson I learned the hard way: “I once had a law professor say that a good lawyer knows what he does not know. It took me a while to understand this, but leadership is not about knowing all the answers. Leadership is about empowering people who can help arrive at the best possible answer to complex and tough questions.”
How I recharge: “I go for a run, and this will sound crazy, but I do not listen to music or wear headphones. I am able to take in my surroundings and sort of unplug for a second, which helps clear my mind.”
