Philip G. Vera knew he wanted to make a difference in his community. "Whether I could help an individual, a family or a community, I wanted to be there.  An attorney is in a unique position to do this." Phil chose Cooley because of the "top faculty and the practical nature of the curriculum…Cooley prepared me to become a member of the Bar from Day One."

Phil was managing editor of the Thomas M. Cooley Law Review, chairperson of the Mock Trial Executive Board, and president of the American Bar Association/Law Student Division. His practical experience continued as an intern at the Macomb County Prosecutors Office in Mt. Clemens, Mich., where he became familiar with arguing motions, assisting with plea negotiation and conducting preliminary examinations in district court.

After graduating in May 2006, Phil started a solo practice, and his Cooley education served him well.

Philip is a partner in a small firm called Michigan Law Services, P.L.L.C., formed with a good friend and classmate from Cooley. His practice focuses on criminal defense work, family law matters and general civil practice. "A good share of my criminal work is in representing indigent clients as a court-appointed attorney in both circuit and district courts."

Phil continues to give back to the community, volunteering at various "ask the lawyer days" in the metro Detroit area and as a pro bono Channel 7 TV "Call for Action" attorney.

Philip G. Vera

May 2006 graduate
"Thanks to my Cooley education, I was ready to handle my clients' needs right after passing the bar exam. On top of learning the substantive law at Cooley, they taught me the practical aspects of being a lawyer as well, something many of my colleagues from other schools were not prepared for."

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