CHICAGO– LAWFUEL – Law News, Law Jobs Network –The intellectual property law firm Wood Phillips issued the following statement today from Managing Partner John S. Mortimer:
“In this holiday season of peace and joy, we are deeply saddened by the terrible tragedy that took place in our offices yesterday. Three wonderful people, each of whom we counted both as colleagues and friends, were taken from us in a brutal and senseless attack. Our love and prayers go out to the families of each of our lost colleagues. We will fondly remember them always.
“Allen Hoover, a partner in the firm, was an outstanding lawyer who was enormously dedicated and a passionate advocate for his clients. A colleague of many members of the firm for more than 20 years, Allen prided himself on staying on top of cutting edge technology that he used in his practice.
“Over his career, Allen created a worldwide network of loyal work colleagues and friends. Allen was very generous and ever willing to share his wisdom and experiences in the law. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend to those with whom he associated. He will be greatly missed by all those in the firm.
“Paul Goodson, who worked part-time for Wood Phillips as a mail clerk, was a kind and compassionate man and a friend to everyone in the firm. A ‘jack of all trades,’ Paul was a hardworking, reliable and conscientious employee who did anything the firm asked of him. He was the glue that connected many activities that made the firm run smoothly on a daily basis.
“Although Michael McKenna was not a member of our firm, he rented space in our offices for more than a decade and was like part of the family. Although he had no formal affiliation with the firm, he positively interacted with everyone at Wood Phillips. A dedicated family man, Mike was very personable with a wide range of interests and very positive energy.
“Wood Phillips’ offices will be closed Monday as all employees gather together off-site to support each other, to remember our colleagues and to meet with grief counselors. The firm is still discussing other memorial plans. We plan to reopen our offices on Tuesday.
“Our priority right now is to take care of everyone within the Wood Phillips firm family, although we will continue to support our clients as we work through our grief.”
