The Crawford County legal community is mourning the death of long-time Robinson attorney Robert Douglas.
Douglas died early Tuesday at Crawford Memorial Hospital. The Oblong native was 77.
Retired Circuit Judge David Correll, who started his legal career with Douglas' firm in 1974, remembered Douglas as tough and fearless.
"You would never feel Bob was intimidated by any individual or any situation," Correll said. "He wasn't afraid of public feedback and didn't shy away from what might be categorized as negative public opinion."
"Nobody fought harder for a client than Bob Douglas," Mattoon attorney Fred Johnson said.
"He was well-respected through out the legal community and remembered for his zealous advocacy for his clients in and out of the courtroom," Crawford County Associate Judge Mark Shaner said.
"Even though he tried some extremely controversial cases, he believed in fighting for the law," Marie Douglas, his wife of 54 years, added. "He truly, truly loved the law."
"Bob and I spent decades sharing the same mistress - the law," Robinson attorney Mark Weber said.
"He was my toughest and most ethical opponent for more than 50 years," Weber added, saying he and all members of the bar were in mourning. "My condolences to his spouse and my friend, Marie, and to Clint, his son."
"I've known Bob for over 25 years and have always had the deepest respect for him," Crawford County Circuit Clerk Angela Reinoehl said. "My condolences to his family."
