Leslie Abramson: Trailblazing Criminal Defense Attorney and Legal Activist

Early Life and Education

Leslie Abramson was born in 1943 in New York City. She earned her undergraduate degree from Barnard College and her law degree from Columbia Law School, where she was the first woman to serve as editor-in-chief of the Columbia Law Review.

Legal Career

Abramson began her legal career as a prosecutor for the Manhattan District Attorney's office. However, she quickly switched to criminal defense work, where she became known for her aggressive and innovative tactics.

Abramson's high-profile clients included Mafia boss John Gotti, rapper Tupac Shakur, and celebrity chef Mario Batali. She was particularly known for her successful defense of Gotti, who was acquitted in three separate racketeering trials.

Activism

Beyond her legal work, Abramson was also a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform. She served on the boards of various organizations, including the Innocence Project, which works to exonerate wrongly convicted individuals.

Awards and Recognition

Abramson received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including the American Bar Association's Thurgood Marshall Award for Criminal Justice in 2002. She was also featured in the 2018 documentary "RBG," which highlighted the careers of trailblazing female judges.

Legacy

Leslie Abramson passed away in 2023 at the age of 80. She left behind a legacy of brilliance, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to justice. Her work as a criminal defense attorney and legal activist had a profound impact on the American legal system.