2009: Bobby Lee Cook

Bobby Lee Cook, the criminal defense attorney widely believed to be the inspiration for the NBC TV series “Matlock,” (1986-92), delivered the Gonzaga University School of Law’s 2009 Luvera Lecture.

Cook, who has practiced law since 1949 from the small town of Sommerville, Georgia, is a study in contrasts as he balances a highly accessible, down-to-earth persona in this small town while operating an international law practice at the highest level. Representing clients ranging from moonshiners to high-powered socialites, Cook has tried thousands of cases, including more than 300 murder trials, in more than 40 states. At age 82, Cook’s pursuit of justice for his clients remains as vigorous as ever and he is still considered one of the top criminal defense attorneys in the nation.