Atty. Brian J. Cooke

Atty. Brian J. Cooke

Asbestos attorney Brian Cooke joined the firm in 2004 and is now one of the firm’s shareholders. He previously served two tours of duty with the United States Marine Corps after graduating from University of Missouri Columbia’s School of Law.

Alton Alton 26 Years Experience 26 year
Call (618) 259-2222

Profile Summary

About Brian J. Cooke at a glance

Brian J. Cooke is a Partner based in Alton, Illinois, practicing at Simmons Hanly Conroy LLP. They have 26+ years of legal experience, licensed to practice since 2000. Admitted to practice in Missouri (2000), Illinois (2006), and U.S. District Court, Southern District of Illinois (2011). Educated at University of Missouri Columbia School of Law (J.D., 1999) and Spring Hill College (B.S. Political, 1996). Recognitions include Peer Reviewed. Active member of Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys, Board of Governors American Trial Lawyers Association Southern Trial Lawyers Association Illinois Bar Association Missouri State Bar Association American Association for Justice Bar Association of Metropolitan St and Louis Association of Plaintiff Interstate Trucking Lawyers of America. Serves clients in Alton, IL and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated June 2026

About

  • Asbestos attorney Brian Cooke joined the firm in 2004 and is now one of the firm’s shareholders
  • He previously served two tours of duty with the United States Marine Corps after graduating from University of Missouri Columbia’s School of Law
  • In the Marine Corps, Brian traveled around the world and served as both a prosecutor and company commanding officer
  • During his final year of active duty, Brian served in Baghdad as a legal adviser to the Iraqi Ministry of Justice
  • He was the first Western attorney to appear and argue before the Central Criminal Court of Iraq, a judicial body comprised entirely of Iraqi nationals
  • His responsibilities included prosecuting crimes involving terrorism, political corruption and organized crime
  • Recently the St. Louis Bar Association awarded Brian the 2011 Spirit of Justice Award for his military service and his continuing pro bono work to help veterans
  • Brian grew up in St. Louis in a family of judges and attorneys
  • Both parents are veterans of Vietnam
  • Joining the military and becoming a lawyer was a natural fit for Brian
  • Throughout his legal career, Brian has represented the underdog, including Iraqi citizens who endured years of tyranny and U.S. veterans suffering from PTSD and other service-related injuries
  • Today he focuses on asbestos cancer victims who were harmed through no fault of their own. “When you get to know our clients and their families, hear their stores and how they came about becoming exposed to asbestos and diagnosed with cancer, you know you’re sticking up for the little guy,” he said

Jurisdictional Context

Why local counsel matters in Illinois

Practicing law in Illinois. Legal matters in Illinois are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Alton are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate Illinois state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in Illinois brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this venue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in Illinois courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.

Looking for additional Illinois attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Alton or all attorneys in Illinois.

Frequently Asked

Common questions about Brian J. Cooke

Where is Brian J. Cooke's law office located?
Brian J. Cooke's law practice is located in Alton, Illinois. The firm is Simmons Hanly Conroy LLP. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
How long has Brian J. Cooke practiced law?
Brian J. Cooke has 26+ years of legal experience and has been licensed since 2000.
Where did Brian J. Cooke go to law school?
Brian J. Cooke earned their education at (J.D., 1999); (B.S. Political, 1996).
How can I contact Brian J. Cooke for a consultation?
You can contact Brian J. Cooke directly through this profile page. Click "Ask the Attorney" to submit a question, or "Schedule a Consultation" to book a meeting. Most claimed-profile attorneys respond within one business day.
What awards or recognition has Brian J. Cooke received?
Brian J. Cooke's notable recognition includes: Peer Reviewed.

Practice Areas

Education

J.D.
University of Missouri Columbia School of Law
- 1999
B.S. Political
Spring Hill College
- 1996

Awards

Peer Reviewed

Bar Admissions

Missouri
Admitted: 2000
Illinois
Admitted: 2006
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Illinois
Admitted: 2011

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