Volunteers of Legal Service mourns the loss of Michael A. Cooper, a longtime member of our Board of Directors and pro bono champion in New York City.
Comment by John S. Kiernan, VOLS Board Member and Past President:
“Mike was one of the great lawyers and great friends of his generation. I never heard him express an opinion that wasn’t wise, balanced, thoughtful, fair and persuasive. His intellect was searing, his judgment was spot on, his energy was relentless, his solicitude for the helpless was heartfelt, and his intolerance for injustice was inspiring. The world’s total reserves of common sense and decency are depleted with his passing.”
Statement from H. Rodgin Cohen, Senior Chair, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP:
We are very sorry to inform you that Mike Cooper passed away last night at the age of 84. He died peacefully after a brief, courageous battle with COVID.
Mike was legendary not only as an S&C litigator, but also for his deep and inspirational dedication to public service. He joined the firm in 1961 after attending Harvard Law School, was a partner from 1968 to 2003, and remained an active practitioner and mediator until his passing. Mike served as managing partner of the Litigation Group from 1978 to1985. He was a president of the American College of Trial Lawyers. During his tenure at the firm he worked on many of the firm’s highest profile matters, including the precedent setting Hudson Tubes case that he litigated with Judge Peck.
To name but a few of his many public service accomplishments, Mike for decades was responsible for coordinating the firm’s extensive pro bono activities. Mike was deeply dedicated to the civil rights of the poor, minority communities, and the incarcerated. In Mike’s honor the firm presents an annual pro bono award to recognize outstanding public service.
He will be deeply missed by the S&C community and the community at large.
We offer our deepest condolences to Mike’s wife Nan and the rest of his family.