Arkansas Supreme Court Honors Legacy of Bowen Professor John Cook
The Arkansas Supreme Court has paid tribute to the late Professor John L. Cook of the UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law, honoring his service to the court, his students, and the legal profession.
In a per curiam opinion issued October 29, 2026, the court reflected on Cook’s dedication to improving legal education and the practice of law. Cook served as adviser to the Arkansas Committee on Civil Practice and as a subcommittee member of the Supreme Court’s Committee on Automation, where he advised on artificial intelligence.
Even as he faced serious health challenges, Cook remained committed to his work with the Committee on Civil Practice. The court recalled his willingness to participate remotely and respond to emails in the middle of the night, noting that he considered his service a “true honor” and an “incredible opportunity.”
At Bowen, Cook taught Research, Writing & Analysis I and II and directed the Rural Practice Incubator Project, which focuses on expanding access to legal services in underserved communities.
“Professor Cook leaves behind a legacy through his students and his service to this court, and he will be dearly missed,” the court wrote.