William Kunstler

Date of Birth: July 7, 1919

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: September 4, 1995

Biography

William Moses Kunstler was an American lawyer and civil rights activist, renowned for his advocacy on behalf of controversial and often unpopular causes. Born into a Jewish family in New York City, Kunstler graduated from Yale University and earned his law degree from Columbia Law School. He began his legal career in private practice but soon turned to civil rights work, becoming deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Kunstler gained national prominence as a defense attorney for the Chicago Seven, a group of anti-Vietnam War protesters charged with conspiracy and inciting to riot during the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Throughout his career, Kunstler represented a variety of clients, including members of the Black Panther Party, Native American activists, and prisoners involved in the Attica Prison riot. His willingness to defend those marginalized by society earned him both praise and criticism. Kunstler’s work extended beyond the courtroom; he was an outspoken critic of the U.S. justice system and an advocate for social change. He authored several books, including his autobiography “My Life as a Radical Lawyer.” Kunstler passed away on September 4, 1995, leaving behind a legacy of fearless advocacy for civil liberties and social justice.

5 Interesting Facts about William Kunstler

1. William Kunstler served as a major in the U.S. Army during World War II and received a Bronze Star for his service.

2. He co-founded the Center for Constitutional Rights in 1966, an organization dedicated to advancing and protecting the rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.

3. Kunstler was awarded the “Lawyer of the Year” by the National Lawyers Guild in 1970.

4. He frequently appeared on television and radio, using media platforms to advocate for his causes and educate the public about civil rights issues.

5. Kunstler’s outspoken and flamboyant courtroom style made him a polarizing figure in the legal community and the public eye.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Kunstler

1. “The law is but a means to an end, and whatever the end may be, the law must bend to that end.”

2. “I became a lawyer because I wanted to be a hero.”

3. “Real political trials are not about the guilt or innocence of the defendant; they are an opportunity to expose the repressive mechanisms of the state.”

4. “If you are not a radical at the age of 20, you have no heart. If you are still a radical at the age of 40, you have no brain.”

5. “The law cannot stand silent if someone is denied a right that is given to others.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, William Kunstler’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million.

Children

William Kunstler had two daughters with his second wife, Margaret Ratner Kunstler: Sarah Kunstler and Emily Kunstler. Both daughters followed in their father’s footsteps and became involved in social justice work. Sarah is a filmmaker and lawyer, while Emily is also a filmmaker. They co-directed the documentary “William Kunstler: Disturbing the Universe,” which explores their father’s life and legacy.