Cordell began practicing law in 1971, building a national construction law practice representing top U.S. highway and transportation contractors.

After 37 years, he started coaching lawyers in his firm, aiming to double originations in two years—but achieved it in one. This success led him to focus full-time on helping lawyers succeed.

Cordell became a recognized speaker, writer, and blogger on lawyer career and client development. He delivered presentations across the U.S. and Canada, published four books, created a video series Client Development: Securing, Retaining, and Expanding Client Relationships, and wrote the Practical Success column for The Practical Lawyer.

From 2005 to 2020, he coached over 1,000 lawyers, many of whom became firm leaders or top rainmakers. Now retired from coaching, he focuses on writing novels.

His Gabriela Sanchez novel series features a formidable lawyer protagonist, a deliberate choice explored in a published interview about her character and role in the series.