Robert Shapiro: The Defense Attorney Who Changed Legal History

Early Life and Education

Robert Shapiro was born in 1942 in New Jersey. He earned his undergraduate degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and his law degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). After graduating from UCLA, Shapiro joined the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, where he served as a prosecutor for several years.

O.J. Simpson Trial

Shapiro is best known for his role as a defense attorney in the O.J. Simpson murder trial. Simpson was charged with the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman. Shapiro was a member of Simpson's "Dream Team" of defense attorneys, which also included Johnnie Cochran and Robert Kardashian. The trial was one of the most publicized in American history, and Shapiro's aggressive and unorthodox tactics helped Simpson to be acquitted of all charges.

Later Career

After the Simpson trial, Shapiro continued to practice law and became a legal commentator. He also wrote several books, including "The Search for Justice: A Defense Attorney's Story" and "The Trial of the Century: The O.J. Simpson Case." Shapiro died in 2022 at the age of 80.

Legacy

Robert Shapiro was one of the most successful and controversial defense attorneys in American history. He was known for his aggressive tactics, his ability to connect with juries, and his willingness to take on high-profile cases. Shapiro's work helped to change the way that criminal trials are conducted, and his legacy will continue to be debated for years to come.