Remembering Jessie Cook

Attorney Jessie Cook

Attorney Jessie Cook was a formidable presence in the legal community—a dedicated advocate, a brilliant mind, and a champion for justice. With her unparalleled talent and unwavering commitment to those she served, Jessie’s impact went far beyond her impressive career achievements. She touched the lives of those around her and left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

It’s hard to find the right words to honor someone as remarkable as Attorney Jessie Cook. On my way home from court on March 17th, 2025, I learned of her passing. Since then, my heart has been heavy, reflecting on the indelible impact Jessie had on my life and the lives of so many others. This post is my way of honoring her—a woman of fierce intellect, relentless passion, and unwavering dedication to justice.

Jessie Cook was more than an incredible attorney; she was a complex, brilliant force of nature who cultivated hope where there seemed to be none. She wasn’t just my lawyer—she became a guide, a critic, and ultimately, someone I grew to love and respect deeply.

Jessie’s Unwavering Commitment to Justice

Jessie’s career began long before I had the privilege of meeting her. A graduate of IU Maurer School of Law in 1979, Jessie’s professional accomplishments read like a roadmap to excellence. From teaching advanced trial advocacy at law schools to representing complex criminal cases in state and federal courts, she shaped the legal world through her intellect and passion. As a founding member of advocacy organizations and a recipient of multiple high-profile awards, including the Thurgood Marshall Award for indigent defense, Jessie set a standard for excellence that few will achieve.

Jessie didn’t stop at practicing law. She worked tirelessly behind the scenes, chairing committees, training young lawyers, mentoring peers, and advocating for justice in every corner of Indiana. Her influence is woven into the fabric of the state’s legal community.

She served on the Indiana Supreme Court Rules Committee for a decade, chairing it for five years, and was a founding member of the Indiana Federal Community Defenders. Jessie’s legal expertise and dedication led to her being honored with numerous prestigious awards, including:

• The Indiana Public Defender Council’s Gideon Award (2008): Recognizing her extraordinary work in criminal defense.
• ISBA’s GP Hall of Fame Award (2013): Celebrating excellence in the legal profession.
• The Thurgood Marshall Award (2014): Honoring her contributions to indigent defense in federal court.

Despite her accolades, Jessie wasn’t one to seek the limelight. She much preferred being in the courtroom or guiding young attorneys, ensuring the future of criminal defense was in good hands.

But to me, Jessie Cook wasn’t just a legendary attorney. She was someone who changed the course of my life.

Our First Meeting

I met Jessie in 1991 under the most difficult circumstances. I was charged with murder. I had gone through one private attorney and two public defenders, none of whom worked out. I was angry, distrustful, and not an easy client.

When Jessie entered my life, it wasn’t with fanfare but with confidence and honesty. She wasn’t afraid to tell me hard truths—whether I wanted to hear them or not. She spoke plainly, sometimes foul-mouthed, and I didn’t always appreciate her directness or vulgarity. I even called her a racist once in one of my angrier moments, to which she replied by calling me an “asshole.” That was Jessie—unapologetically straightforward, with a sharp sense of humor that cut through even the most heated moments.

Despite my resistance, Jessie stuck with me. When my first trial ended in a hung jury and we had to move to a different county for a retrial, Jessie was right there, steadfast and determined. Even after I received a guilty verdict for voluntary manslaughter and criminal recklessness, she didn’t turn her back on me. Instead, she wrote me letters, sent me books, and even got me a subscription to Mother Jones magazine. Jessie believed in me when I couldn’t see a path forward for myself.

The Radical Advocate

Jessie wasn’t afraid to challenge the system—or the people she represented. She pushed me in ways I didn’t always understand at the time, but over the years, her guidance became a lifeline. She saw potential in me that I didn’t see, and she wasn’t quiet about it, even when others doubted me. One attorney who worked on my post-conviction relief told me, “Jessie Cook thinks you’re going to get out and do amazing things, but I don’t see it.” Jessie saw worth in me when others couldn’t or wouldn’t.

Her belief in social justice wasn’t just about legal theory; it was personal and practical. Jessie radicalized me—not in anger, but in purpose. Her unwavering commitment to justice inspired me to strive for something greater.

A Mentor Beyond the Courtroom

After my release from prison, I found myself on a new path toward law school. Jessie was there, not as a cheerleader, but as a realist. She didn’t sugarcoat the challenges I would face; instead, she prepared me for them. Her words of caution weren’t meant to discourage me but to strengthen my resolve, and because of her, I was determined to rise to the occasion.

When I visited her after I got out, she asked what I was doing. I told her I was spending my days playing video games and watching movies. Typical Jessie, she didn’t mince words. “How could you do that with all that’s going on in the world?” she asked. Her question still echoes in my mind whenever I indulge in leisure. Jessie never rested, and she never escaped from the bigger battles that needed fighting. Her drive was relentless.

A Legacy of Integrity and Excellence

Jessie Cook was a hero—not just for me but for many. During Women’s History Month, it feels especially profound to reflect on her life and contributions. She commanded respect throughout the legal community, not just because of her accomplishments but because of her character. Even when she was deep in a jury trial, representing an Indianapolis Colts player who was charged with rape, she took time to support me. During one of the breaks, I asked if she would give an interview to a reporter about my story.  She gave the interview not just for me, but with the hope that it would inspire others.

I often think of my accomplishments and how small they are compared to what Jessie achieved. But I know that any success I’ve had—and any good I’ve done—is because of the foundation she laid for me.

Her influence extends far beyond the courtroom. Jessie’s refusal to back down, her willingness to speak the harsh truths, and her dedication to mentoring the next generation are part of her lasting legacy. If you knew Jessie Cook, you had a friend for life. She showed up, fought hard, and never stopped sharing her wisdom.

One More Lunch

Our last conversation was quintessential Mark Nicholson. We talked about getting together for lunch, as we often said we would, but we seldom did. When I think about all the lunches we didn’t have, I’m reminded of how fleeting life can be. Jessie once told me, “Don’t waste the time you’ve been given.” I encourage everyone reading this to take her advice to heart. Reach out to the people who’ve impacted your life. Share a meal, a story, a moment—because you never know if it will be the last time.

Jessie Cook wasn’t just an attorney. She was a force of nature who changed lives, including mine. Her memory is a reminder of what it means to live with purpose and fight for justice. I’ll carry her lessons with me always.