Chris Lang
Chris Lang is a founder and partner in the firm. He focuses his efforts on representing businesses and non-profits, as well as trust and estate clients. He advises businesses and nonprofit leaders in the areas of corporate formation, corporate governance, contracts and licenses, leases, purchase and sale agreements, financing, intellectual property, employment issues, dispute resolution, and succession planning. For trust and estate clients Chris handles estate planning including drafting wills and trusts, powers of attorney, health care proxies and related planning documents. His practice also includes probate work and estate administration.
Chris currently serves on the Board of Directors of Roslindale Open Studios, Inc. and previously served on the Board of Directors of Roslindale Village Main Street, Inc. He is a graduate of Harvard College and Boston University School of Law. He has been practicing law since 1994 and is licensed to practice in Massachusetts. When not practicing law, Chris is an avid amateur photographer who frequently displays his work in local shows. He also enjoys spending time with his two daughters; his wife, Gayle; and Bobby, the world’s smartest terrier.
Contact Chris: chris@langcoakley.com
Gerald M. Coakley
Gerald M. Coakley is a seasoned business attorney who serves as trusted legal counsel to business owners, entrepreneurs, and closely held companies throughout all stages of the business lifecycle—from formation and growth to strategic transactions and exit.
Gerald’s practice is centered on providing practical, business-focused legal advice that helps clients make informed decisions, manage risk, and achieve their long-term goals. He regularly advises clients on a broad range of corporate and commercial matters, including entity formation and structuring, contract negotiation, corporate governance, and business succession planning.
A significant portion of Gerald’s work involves guiding clients through complex transactions, including the purchase and sale of closely held businesses. He has led the drafting and negotiation of stock purchase agreements and related transaction documents, and regularly advises on deal structure, risk allocation, and post-closing obligations. His transactional experience includes managing the full lifecycle of a deal—from initial structuring and negotiations through definitive agreements, disclosure schedules, and closing documentation.
In addition to transactional work, Gerald serves as outside general counsel to many of his clients, advising on:
Business formation and structuring, including limited liability companies and corporate entities
Drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements, including employment, consulting, and vendor contracts
Corporate governance and internal ownership arrangements
Risk management, liability protection, and dispute avoidance
Business succession planning and ownership transitions
He frequently works with clients on structuring and advising on LLCs and related business arrangements, including ongoing operational and ownership issues.
Gerald is known for his pragmatic and accessible approach. He focuses on delivering clear, actionable guidance—translating complex legal concepts into practical advice that business owners can use to move their companies forward with confidence.
Based in Boston, Gerald represents a diverse client base that includes business owners, contractors, professionals, and investors. His goal is to provide responsive, strategic counsel that protects his clients’ interests while supporting their growth and success.
Prior to starting Lang Coakley, Gerald was a civil litigator focusing on complex medical malpractice cases. Gerald’s years of experience in the courtroom provide him with a practical background to counsel clients on the best way to bring an issue to resolution quickly and cost effectively.
Gerald is a graduate of Colby College and Loyola University Chicago School of Law. In his spare time, you’ll find Gerald cooking, entertaining friends and family, and enjoying time with his beautiful wife and two amazing boys.
Contact Gerald: gerald@langcoakley.com