Robert A. Cocchia
FAX: 619.595.5450
Experience
Robert Cocchia concentrates his practice on complex business/ commercial disputes, class actions and employment/wage and hour litigation.
Mr. Cocchia was trial counsel for the defendant in Goldman v. Radioshack Corporation, a statewide class action brought in the United States District Court in Pennsylvania for alleged wage and hour violations under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The case resulted in a complete defense verdict after a three week jury trial. Mr. Cocchia also has acted as defense counsel in several other employment class actions under both Federal and state law in California, Wisconsin, Illinois, Florida, and New York.
Mr. Cocchia's experience also includes the defense of commercial torts, securities litigation, contract disputes, professional negligence and intellectual property matters.
Mr. Cocchia has represented manufacturers of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, industrial solvents and heavy equipment in various litigation matters, including mass tort litigation. He was also a member of the national defense team for breast implant manufacturers.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Cocchia was General Counsel of a software development company. In that capacity, he coordinated the company's intellectual property strategy, contract formation and licensing agreements.
Notable Engagements
- Obtained summary judgment in complex breach of contract and fraud case in which vendor sought in excess of $500 million in damages.
- Represented large retailer in nationwide class action, and multiple individual state actions, alleging wage and hour violations.
- Obtained dismissal of shareholder derivative class action on behalf of a Special Litigation Committee.
- Represented thoroughbred horse owner in claims against agent for fraud and breach of contract in relation to the purchase of horses in excess of $45 million.
- Conducted internal investigation for company accused of fraud and securities violations.
- Representing wireless telecommunications provider in various putative class actions involving claims of false advertising, improper collection of federal exercise taxes and sales taxes, and billing issues.
Education
- J.D., University of San Diego School of Law, 1994
- B.S., Babson College, summa cum laude, 1991
Admitted
- California State Courts
- U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California
- U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
- U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California
Professional Activities:
- American Bar Association
- Los Angeles County Bar Association
- San Diego County Bar Association