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Law Quadrangle (formerly Law Quad Notes)

Abstract

It's not just plain old phone service anymore. Rapid convergence of technology, services, and ownership make telecommunications law an exciting career for many Michigan lawyers.

A century ago, notable University of Michigan Law School graduate and donor William W. Cook made his fortune as counsel for corporations that tried to break Western Union's monopoly on communication. In the last few decades, other graduates have followed Cook's example in careers that are reshaping the telecommunications industry. At least three attorneys with Law School ties played key roles in challenging American Telephone & Telegraph's lock on long distance telephone service in the 1970's. Others now handle legal and public policy mattters at AT&T and its spinoff telephone companies. Several graduates are with smaller, aggressive telecommunications companies that are bringing new services and fresh competition to the industry, while many more are enjoying fast-paced private practice in communication law. And watching over all this change are at least nine alumni at the Federal Communications Commission.

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