About Ruth
Ruth Swenson was a dedicated attorney based in Mesa, Arizona, who specialized in various areas of law, including criminal law, family law, divorce, estate planning, arbitration and mediation, education law, and juvenile law. Admitted to the State Bar of Arizona in 1986, Ruth built a reputable practice over the years. Her law office was located at 1550 S. Alma School Road, Suite 230, Mesa, AZ 85210, where she served clients with compassion and expertise. Ruth passed away on July 22, 2024, at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to her clients and the community.
Ruth earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 1985, a significant milestone that marked the beginning of her legal career. Prior to pursuing her law degree, she obtained a Master of Science in Education from Illinois State University in 1976, specializing in special education and behavioral disorders in children. This educational background provided her with a unique perspective that she carried into her legal practice. Additionally, she held a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from the University of Northern Colorado, earned in 1971, which further underscored her dedication to helping vulnerable populations. Before establishing her private practice in 2000, Ruth worked for Community Legal Services in Arizona, where she focused on providing legal assistance to those in need.
Her firm specialized in assisting victims of domestic violence, reflecting her unwavering commitment to social justice and advocacy for the marginalized. Ruth’s work in this area not only showcased her legal skills but also highlighted her comfocus on those facing difficult circumstances. Her dedication to her clients was evident in every case she handled. In addition to her legal career, Ruth was a lifelong advocate for the blind. She served multiple terms as president of the Arizona affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, demonstrating her commitment to community service and her focus on improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.
This role allowed her to influence policy and create awareness about the challenges faced by the blind community, further solidifying her reputation as a champion for social change. Ruth's passing on July 22, 2024, was a significant loss to the legal community and those she served. She is survived by her husband, Jim Sohl, and their son, Tony Sohl. Her obituary highlights her many achievements and the profound impact she had on her clients and the community at large. Ruth Swenson’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of attorneys and advocates committed to justice and equality.
