Gary J Cohen graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1970 with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology. He received his JD degree from the University of Texas in 1973 and entered private practice at that time as a criminal defense attorney.

In 1987 with the advent of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines he began concentrating in the area of sentencing. His practice soon began to shift to representing Texas inmates in the parole review process and in parole revocation proceedings. He limits his practice to the field of parole related matters.

He is past chair of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Committee on Sentencing and Paroles. He has testified as an expert witness in sentencing and parole matters before various legislative committees; has consulted with the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles in the reformation of their parole guideline system; and has been invited by the Board to assist in the training of revocation hearing officers throughout Texas. He has written and has lectured extensively in this area.

Qualifications include:

• The Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association,
  
• The Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.
  
• Past Co-chair of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Committee on Sentencing and Parole.
  

Education:

• Graduated the University of Texas School of Law and was licensed to practice in 1973.
• University of Texas Bachelor's degree in psychology - 1970.