Remembering Gill Cochran
WITH GREAT SORROW, MSBA notes the passing of Gill Cochran, a distinguished trial attorney and former Annapolis Ward 1 alderman. Cochran died on July 19, 2025, at the age of 83. His career was defined by his fearless advocacy, unwavering integrity, and a deep commitment to justice and helping others, particularly those struggling with addiction.
Born in Baltimore on April 4, 1942, Cochran was raised with a strong sense of civic duty. He attended the Calvert School and the Groton School before graduating from Yale University. Following college, he served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where his heroic and meritorious service earned him the Bronze Star.
After returning from Vietnam, Cochran pursued his legal education at the University of Maryland School of Law. He earned his degree in 1970 and founded the law office of Gill Cochran in downtown Annapolis. Over the next several decades, he became one of Maryland’s most respected criminal defense and personal injury attorneys. In 2016, his firm became Cochran & Chhabra, LLC, a testament to his dedication to mentoring the next generation of lawyers.
Beyond his legal practice, Cochran was a man of public service and personal passion. He served as an alderman for Ward 1 in Annapolis, bringing the same fairness and passion to local government as he did to the courtroom. A central part of his life was his over 40 years of sobriety. He was a revered figure in the recovery community, often using his legal work to influence and support clients facing their own battles with alcohol and drugs.
Cochran’s other passions included sailing on the Chesapeake Bay and his daily running routine. In 1977, he founded the "6:06 am running group," which continues to this day, with members fondly remembering him by his nickname, "Leader, Sir." A final act of service, in keeping with his values, was donating his remains to science. He will later be interred at Arlington National Cemetery in honor of his service to his country and community.
Gill Cochran is survived by his wife, Eileen Cochran; his daughters, Jean Batty and Nina Davis; and his son, G. Andrew Cochran, as well as many grandchildren. He will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude for his contributions to the legal profession, his community, and the countless lives he touched.
