Remembering Victor Schwartz: A Giant in Public Policy and Legal Reform

A Tribute to Victor Schwartz: An Indelible Legacy in Civil Justice Reform

It is with a profound sense of loss that we announce the passing of Victor Schwartz, a cherished partner, colleague, and friend, who left us on the night of July 29, 2025. Victor was not only a founder but also a co-chair of Shook, Hardy & Bacon's Public Policy Group, where he dedicated over 24 years to advocating for civil justice reform. His influence on the legal profession and community is immense and cannot be overstated. In recognition of his significant contributions, Victor was named one of The National Law Journal's 100 most influential lawyers in the United States back in 2013.

Victor's career was marked by a blend of academic excellence and practical legal prowess. He started his journey at the University of Cincinnati College of Law after clerking for a judge in the Southern District of New York and graduating near the top of his class from the prestigious Columbia Law School. His academic contributions include co-authoring the widely used torts casebook, Prosser, Wade and Schwartz's Torts, which is still a foundational resource for law students today. Additionally, he authored the leading treatise on Comparative Negligence, contributing significantly to a principle that has now become a staple in legal discussions.

Before making a name in private practice, Victor was renowned in legal academia, eventually becoming Dean of his alma mater. In a tribute to his legacy, the law school recognized his impact by establishing the Professor Victor E. Schwartz Chair in Tort Law in 2012. Victor was a pivotal figure during a time when product liability law was undergoing significant changes, chairing a task force for the Department of Commerce that led to the model Uniform Products Liability Act. His efforts were recognized with the Secretary of Commerce's Award for Professional Excellence.

In summer 2001, Victor joined Shook, Hardy & Bacon, where he became a beloved figure not just for his legal insights but also for his mentorship and humor. His passing leaves a void that is felt deeply within the firm and the broader legal community. “Victor was a singular force – a passionate advocate, an innovative scholar, and a gifted communicator, not to mention a dear friend and a trusted colleague. He will be deeply missed,” said Madeleine McDonough, chair of the firm.

Colleagues recall Victor as more than just a mentor; he was a life teacher. Partner Mark Behrens, who worked alongside him for nearly 35 years, reminisced, “Every conversation with Victor was a teaching moment, whether about law or life, and always ended with a funny story or a spot-on impression of some public figure.” Phil Goldberg, who managed Shook’s Washington, D.C. Office and collaborated with Victor for over two decades, expressed that “Victor was a friend, mentor, and partner to everyone fortunate enough to work with him.” His charisma and intellect impacted countless lives.

Chris Appel, who aligned his career closely with Victor since joining the Public Policy Group in 2006, shared, “Working as Victor's 'right-hand man' has been the greatest honor of my professional life. He was a force of nature and ahead of his time in many ways.” Victor’s zest for life and unique humor brightened the days of many, creating a legacy rooted in kindness and knowledge.

As we mourn Victor’s loss, our thoughts are with his longtime friend Deborah Underhill, his goddaughter Martha Ann Underhill Pavoni, and godson Markus Fuchss. Victor also leaves behind dear friends, including doctors David Shocket and Barrett Goldstein, as well as everyone at Shook who had the privilege to work alongside him. His indelible impact on the legal field, education, and civil justice reform will be remembered by all who knew him, echoing through the lives he touched and the legacy he built.

In conclusion, Victor Schwartz's contributions to law and society exemplify the values of dedication, intellect, and integrity. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of legal professionals and reform advocates. As we bid farewell to a remarkable leader, we commit to honoring his memory by continuing to uphold the principles he championed throughout his life.