Thomas C. Hoffman
Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, PC • Erie, PA
BusinessEnergyEstate PlanningFinancial InstitutionsInsurance
Is this your profile?
Claim it for free to update your information and connect with clients.
Contact
Email
thoffman@kmgslaw.com
Phone
Address
120 W. 10th Street, Erie, PA, 16501, US
Professional
About
Thomas C. Hoffman is a seasoned attorney and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) based in Erie, PA, at Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, PC. With a robust background in energy law, estate planning, financial institutions, insurance, manufacturing, personal injury, and tax law, Thomas has successfully represented thousands of businesses and high-net-worth individuals across more than 15 states. Beginning his career as a CPA with Ernst & Young in Pittsburgh from 1990 to 1993, Thomas brings a unique blend of financial and legal expertise to his practice. He is AV® Preeminent Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, a testament to his commitment to excellence in legal services. Thomas specializes in closely held business planning and business succession planning, where he employs innovative strategies to address complex client ambitions and circumstances. He collaborates closely with clients’ accountants, bankers, insurance agents, and wealth management advisors, ensuring a seamless approach to high-quality client care. Additionally, he has built a network of strategic legal and tax advisors, including former IRS agents, to provide comprehensive solutions for unique client needs. In the realm of business successions, Thomas excels at asking critical, thought-provoking questions to assess whether successors possess the necessary skills to uphold and grow the business. He communicates challenging issues in clear, straightforward language, ensuring that clients fully understand their options. When necessary, he has successfully represented clients in federal income, estate, and gift tax cases before the IRS. As the originator of the Knox Law Institute™, Thomas provides practical legal education to businesses, governmental entities, nonprofit organizations, insurance companies, financial institutions, individuals, families, and professional advisors. His expertise encompasses business succession planning, estate planning, tax law, asset protection, shale energy planning, trusts, and charitable giving, making him a valuable resource for clients navigating the complexities of today’s legal landscape.
About Business Law
Business law attorneys advise companies on legal matters including formation, contracts, compliance, and transactions. They help businesses navigate regulatory requirements and protect their interests. Common matters include business formation, contract drafting, mergers and acquisitions, commercial disputes.
Credentials
Education
1991 University of Pittsburgh School of Law J.D. 1988 Pennsylvania State University B.S.
Languages
English
Recognition & Involvement
Awards
2019 Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America 2016 AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
Publications
2014 Pennsylvania Forests Landowners, Legacies and Legalities
Associations
Erie County Bar Association Member Pennsylvania Bar Association Member Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants Member American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Tax Division Member Penn State Erie, The Behrend College Council of Fellows Member
Speaking
2019 Professional Advisor Symposium Family Private Equity Model: When the Epiphany Occurs 2018 Professional Advisor Symposium Family Private Equity Model: When Your Client's Family Business is Their Best Investment 2017 Professional Advisor Symposium So Now You Are A Trustee: What's Next? 2017 Private Forest Landowner Conference Legacy and Estate Planning for the Woodland Owner 2017 Business Succession Seminar: Your Business, Your Family, Your Legacy Business Succession: Legal & Tax Aspects
Other Business Attorneys in Erie, PA
More Attorneys at Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, PC
Updated: Jun 08, 2026