About Bernard L.
Bernard L. Hatcher earned his law degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law in 1993 after completing a B.A. in economics at Cornell University in 1986. The combination of an Ivy League undergraduate education and a Berkeley legal training shaped his entry into private practice. He moved to the San Francisco legal market and established a career that spans multiple jurisdictions.
He is a partner at Cooley Godward Kronish LLP and works out of the firm's San Francisco office. During his time at the firm he has taken on responsibilities typical of senior firm lawyers: supervising client matters, mentoring junior attorneys, and contributing to firm practice development. Colleagues describe his approach as steady and pragmatic; clients have relied on him for counsel that aims to resolve complex issues efficiently.
Hatcher is admitted to practice in both California and Colorado. That dual admission has allowed him to handle matters that cross state lines and to advise clients who have business or litigation concerns in more than one jurisdiction. He regularly coordinates with local counsel and manages the logistical and procedural differences that come with multi-state representation.
He maintains memberships in professional associations and participates in the legal community through those channels. At the firm, he has been involved in internal committees and in the supervision of transactional and litigation teams. He also mentors associates and contributes to training programs aimed at bringing newer lawyers up to speed on firm practice and professional standards.
Colleagues say Hatcher brings a practical mindset to client problems. He breaks complex legal questions into manageable parts and focuses on clear communication. His background — an economics degree followed by legal training at Berkeley — informs an analytical approach to legal work. He continues to practice from Cooley Godward Kronish LLP's San Francisco office and handles matters that involve both California and Colorado jurisdictions.
He currently practices from the San Francisco office, handling matters across California and Colorado.
