Gerry Spence

Gerry Spence was a legendary trial lawyer and author, known for his remarkable courtroom success and unique representation of ‘the little people’. After graduating first in his class from the University of Wyoming College of Law in 1952, Gerry Spence rapidly established himself as a formidable trial lawyer, initially achieving significant early success representing corporations and insurance companies. A defining shift in his career led him to dedicate his practice to individuals, earning national and international recognition for his unwavering commitment to ‘the little people’. Spence maintained an unparalleled track record, never losing a criminal jury trial as either a prosecutor or defense attorney, and remaining undefeated in civil trials after 1969.

His early high-profile victories included securing a $10.5 million verdict for the family in the landmark Karen Silkwood case, followed by a $26.5 million libel suit victory against Penthouse for Kim Pring in 1981. Spence continued to dominate the courtroom throughout the 1980s and 90s, winning a substantial $52 million lawsuit against McDonald’s in 1984. His unique approach to justice was further showcased when he defended Lee Harvey Oswald in a televised mock trial in 1986. He successfully defended Imelda Marcos against federal racketeering charges in 1990 and famously secured an acquittal for Randy Weaver in the highly publicized Ruby Ridge Standoff in 1992, solidifying his reputation as an unconventional and potent legal advocate.

His enduring legacy is marked by an exceptional record of justice for individuals and the foundational impact of his innovative legal education.