It is with profound sadness that Cohen Kinne Valicenti & Cook announces the passing of our beloved friend and colleague, Leonard H. Cohen.

Lenny Cohen was one of the most preeminent lawyers in Massachusetts, having practiced criminal law for 54 years. He rose to prominence by serving as the criminal defense attorney in more than 5,000 cases, including 50 first-degree murder cases and hundreds of high-profile proceedings. In 2009, Lawyers Weekly recognized him as one of the most influential lawyers in the state and a powerhouse within the criminal law community. He has also been selected as one of the Best Lawyers in America.

Lenny was drawn to his specialty while still a student at Boston University. Between classes, he would visit the nearby Suffolk Superior Courthouse and watch trials, studying the “ultimate contest” of comprehensive legal knowledge, meticulous interpretive skill, and quick wits. After serving for several years as an assistant public defender in Pittsfield, he joined a large local law firm and presented hundreds of important cases before district, county, and federal courts, including the Massachusetts Appeals Court and the First Circuit Court of Appeals. In 2009, he cofounded Cohen Kinne Valicenti & Cook, where he was often referred to as the top-referred criminal defense attorney from other firms in the region.

Because Lenny’s clients came to him during times of crisis, his approach combined compassion and sensitivity with extensive knowledge of the law and practical advice to lead them through what is often a life-changing process. In this way, he was able to make a difference in the futures of his clients and sometimes even in the future of the law itself.

Throughout his long involvement in the local community, Lenny played several important roles, including on Berkshire Medical Center’s Institutional Review Board, in Hospice Care of the Berkshires, and as the three-time president of Congregation Knesset Israel. He also taught at area law schools, performed volunteer work for several Berkshire organizations, and served on the board of the Chamber Music Festival.

Lenny’s friendship, expertise, and dedication will be greatly missed.