New York Times Article on Shon Hopwood
Posted: February 9th, 2010 | Author: Andy Cockle | Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: Above the Law, Cockle Law Brief Printing Company, New York Times, Shon R Hopwood, The Volokh Conspiracy | 5 Comments »On several occasions we have had attorneys question how Shon is so knowledgeable about the Supreme Court, but yet, is not an attorney. An article in today’s New York Times answers that question. The article can be viewed here.
Both Cockle and Shon want to say thank you to all the Cockle clients who have emailed us with kind comments and support. Those emails have continued our belief that Shon’s skill set benefits our clients in filing briefs to the Supreme Court.
***Several legal blogs have also taken note of Shon’s story. See SCOTUS Blog, Volokh Conspiracy, and Above the Law.


Just read the article about Shon and congratulations to him for doing one of the hardest things a person can do – turn their life around. Most folks who say they want to make a change, usually don’t stick to their promises. Lots of folks make mistakes in life and it’s nice to see companies like Cockle give someone like him a second chance. I hope he inspires others to do the same.
I read the article about Shon on yahoo. I was so thrilled and happy for him, eventhough i had never heard of him before. I had goose bumps while reading the article. I am a physician and like to see and hear inspiring stories. I hope he remains the same and is always grounded and help the countless people behind bars even after he becomes a famous attorney.
What an inspiring story, Shon! Do you have a twitter profile where I can be your fan? As a recent grad considering a career in law, struggling to follow my dreams, you have provided a shining example, truly, you are a paragon of virtue. If everyone was like you, I think that Plato would call this world ideal. If each person showed such determination in the face of adversity, we would all achive our dreams, and what a world we’d live in then. If all could reach out and just touch the vast stores of wisdom and knowledge, especially and in particular the very important works on goverment and law, we would all be enlightened citizens of a perfect Republic. Thank you for restoring my faith in humanity and in myself.
Just wanted to say how I too enjoyed the recently published article on Shon. The article inspired me to study harder and strive to be the best paralegal I can be. It’s amazing how much he has and is yet to accomplish without attending school. I’m a 2nd year Paralegal student and enjoy reading articles such as this. The law is very empowering while also very slighted nonetheless it is my area of interest in which I can only hope and pray to be a great as Shon. One question, what material would you recommend for a Paralegal in progess who one day may end up in Law School? Also, I’d like to know how you may be reached or do you have a facebook page or something. I’d like to keep up with you and by the way congrats on your marriage and your new bundle of joy. Be blessed!
I also read the NYT story about Mr. Hopwood, and had to tell you how inspiring and encouraging his journey is for people of all backgrounds. Thank you, Shon for sharing your story and thank you to Cockle Law for having the good judgement to employ a gifted young man who more than deserves this second chance.
There is a bill in congress – HR1529 – The Second Chance Act for Non-violent Ex-Offenders – which permits one time offenders to clear their records and become employable again after meeting certain standards of sustained good behavior. The bill unfortunately is languishing unreviewed for the SIXTH legislative session. Would Mr. Hopwood be interested in helping us support this bill, or some form of it? Contact Support_of_HR1529@yahoogroups.com or http://www.meetup.com/A-Second-Chance-H-R-1529 or wedeserveourlivesback.com if you could! Thank you!!