FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2024
The Fifteenth Circuit Mourns the Death of Retired County Judge and Senior Judge The Honorable Barry M. Cohen
WEST PALM BEACH – It is with great sadness that the Circuit announces the passing of the Honorable Barry M. Cohen on November 3, 2024. A native of New York, Judge Cohen moved to Florida where he graduated from the University of Miami School of Law. After graduating, he worked for the Palm Beach County State Attorney's Office in 1971 before moving to the Public Defender's Office in 1978. In 1980, Judge Cohen went into private practice until 1990 when he ran unopposed for a County Court judgeship and took the bench in January 1991.
During his time with the Fifteenth Circuit, Judge Cohen was assigned to criminal divisions and assisted with the civil divisions. He retired from the bench on June 30, 2016. After his retirement and a short pause, Judge Cohen returned to the bench to serve as a senior judge. In that role, he frequently presided over both County and Circuit criminal trials and hearings. He retired from senior judge work in the summer of 2024.
Judge Cohen will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to judicial fairness and integrity. As a longtime member of the Circuit, he will be greatly missed by his colleagues, Judicial Assistants, and Court Administration staff of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit.
For additional information, please contact Richalyn Miller at 561-355-4098 or via email at CADPIO15th@pbcgov.org.