Alumni profile

Professor John Cooper KC

I spent three of the happiest and most inspiring years of my life at Newcastle and in particular at the Law School.

Back in 1977-80 [was it that long ago?], then as now, the School occupied roadside buildings in Windsor Terrace, but the most memorable thing about them was the soothing smell of pipe tobacco which seemed to be the 'go to' for many of the teachers, led by the iconic figure of Professor Elliott.

Getting a place to study Law at Newcastle University marked the start of my relentless drive to go to the Bar and practice in criminal law and its reputation for quality teaching, then as now made it a much sought after place to begin learning the law, which happened to be the title of the first law book I read, top of the School's reading list that Summer before I arrived, 'Learning The Law' by Glanville Williams. Incidentally, I still remember the first case I was taught, Carlill v Carbolic Smokeball Company never to be forgotten.

My time as a student was not just Law. I grasped every chance to learn new things at a fraction of the price it would cost in 'civvy street'.

Ten Golf lessons for 20p each, Fencing Lessons, Ballroom Dancing and Tennis coaching to name but a few of the things I tried.

But it was immersing myself in the plays at the Gulbenkian Theatre and watching the RSC each year as they based themselves in Newcastle, including watching Henry VI Parts 1,2 and 3 all in the same day which remains with me, a major influence which fuelled my writing and resulted in a number of scripts written by me being performed on television and theatre and ultimately being represented by leading London Agents [watch this space.]

I took Silk in 2010 and have a stimulating case load, having represented the majority of bereaved families in the Manchester Arena Inquiry, the Occupiers outside St Paul's Cathedral and many high profile Criminal trials, as but a few examples.

Honoured by the Law School to be appointed a Visiting Professor and to have a seat on the Law School Advisory Board, I continue my close and cherished association with both the University and in particular the School and in 2024 I was thrilled to be asked to call the cohort to their Degrees in the Armstrong Building, a nice coincidence for me as it was where I did my last exam.

Perhaps I can finish with one piece of advice that I was given when I was called to the Bar, back in 1983. "Be Bold" Do that and whatever the future holds, you will be safe in the knowledge that you gave of your best.