Kennesaw,
Georgia

Joe James

Joe is a Founding Principal of Coker James, where he works closely with business owners and officers to provide advice and guidance on achieving financial goals and outcomes. Additionally, Joe helps lead, manage, and set the direction for the firm. With over 45 years of experience in accounting, tax, financial planning, and management consulting as a Certified Public Accountant, Joe possesses in-depth knowledge and expertise in developing tax and financial strategies for business owners, their businesses, estates, trusts, and high-net-worth individuals. Additionally, he provides advice to privately owned, closely held companies on mergers, acquisitions, business development, and strategic corporate planning issues. Joe is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants (GSCPA), and the Atlanta Estate Planning Council. He is a Personal Financial Specialist (PFSSM) credentialed by the AICPA, and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designated by the AICPA. Joe earned his Bachelor of Science in Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Donna Bonacci

Donna is the Managing Principal with Coker James and handles the firm's tax practice. Her areas of expertise include corporate and partnership taxation, multi-state taxation, individual tax issues and planning, estate and gift taxation, and representation before the Internal Revenue Service. She has authored a book to help women in business titled "Lead Like A Woman". Donna has thirty five years of experience in both public and private sectors of the industry. Prior to joining Coker James in 1998, she was the Controller of a closely held corporation and a partner in a public accounting firm. EDUCATION Georgia State University (B.B.A., Accounting) Georgia State University (Master of Taxation) PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Burnt Hickory Baptist Church

Chris Peterson

Christopher is an accomplished tax professional with over 25 years of public accounting experience, serving as Principal and leader of the tax practice at Coker James. He specializes in providing comprehensive tax services to real estate, manufacturing, wholesale distribution, and service businesses, with particular expertise in serving business owners and high net worth individuals. Christopher is known for his deep knowledge in tax compliance and tax resolution, helping clients navigate complex tax challenges while ensuring accuracy and optimal outcomes for their unique financial situations. As a Principal, Christopher leads the firm's tax practice with a focus on delivering strategic tax planning and resolution services that support his clients' long-term financial success. His extensive experience across diverse industries enables him to provide tailored solutions that address the specific needs and challenges of each client sector. Christopher's approach emphasizes thorough analysis, proactive planning, and building trusted relationships through reliable service and expert guidance. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and spending quality time with family and friends, continuing to make a positive impact through his dedication to helping clients achieve their financial goals.

Melinda Davis

Melinda Davis has 35 years of experience providing audit and accounting services to closely-held companies and serves as the principal over attest services at Coker James. She specializes in audit and review engagements, including employee benefit plan audits. She also oversees the client accounting services for the firm. Her focus is on the construction, real estate, dealership, and recreation industries. In addition, Melinda provides consulting services to a variety of small businesses. Certifications: Licensed CPA in Georgia Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Georgia