It’s with deep sorrow that we announce that Richard T. Cozzola, Legal Aid Chicago’s Supervising Attorney of Training, passed away on Saturday, April 16, 2022, surrounded by his wife, son, and siblings. Rich dedicated his life and career to public service and was a fierce and dedicated advocate for the Legal Aid community, particularly families involved in the child welfare system. Rich came to Legal Aid Chicago in 1997 after working for the Loyola Civitas Child Law Center, the Office of the Public Guardian, and Cabrini Green Legal Aid. He has represented adolescents, children, and parents in a variety of areas of law for over forty years including juvenile justice, special education, school discipline, and child welfare. He was a member of the first ABA national Steering Committee for parent representation. He was a mentor, teacher, and friend to many. Rich was a gifted attorney, but his kindness and joyfulness earned him warm regards from both clients and coworkers. He was a true champion of justice and will be sorely missed by all. Our deepest condolences to Richard’s family, friends, and colleagues. His work and legacy will live on for generations as someone who fought to make this world better.
Please know a more in-depth tribute to Rich is coming soon.
Rich was one of the kindest people that I have ever met. He offered me my first internship at LAF, working on CFPG issues (although this was before practice groups were formed). His knowledge on child welfare issues was incredible, and his passion for working with low-income clients was clear in every conversation you had with him. He truly loved his work, and it was such a pleasure knowing him. Words cannot capture how much he will be missed.
Rich was a remarkable lawyer, teacher, mentor–a brilliant advocate who used his skills to help his less fortunate clients. A great loss.
Peace Rich