Ed Genson


Edward Marvin Genson was an American attorney who represented high-profile defendants such as former Republic Windows CEO Richard Gillman, musician R. Kelly, newspaper owner Conrad Black, and Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.

Early life

Genson was born June 30, 1941. He was raised on the West Side of Chicago along with his younger sister, Myrna. He received a B.A. degree from Northwestern University in 1962 in political science, and a J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law in 1965.

Career

Blagojevich Case

Genson was hired by Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich after the Governor's arrest on corruption charges on December 9, 2008 and represented him at the impeachment hearings in the Illinois House of Representatives.
On January 23, 2009, after only a month on the case, Genson announced that he would step down as Blagojevich's lead defense attorney, stating that "I never require a client to do what I say but I do require them to at least listen to what I say."

Republic Windows & Doors

Genson was hired by former Republic Windows CEO Richard Gillman to represent him against the charges brought against him. In a surprise move, the judge set Gillman's bail at $10 million; a significantly higher amount than the Prosecution requested.
On Saturday September 25, Genson was able to get Gillman's bail cut in half and he was able to post bail.

Personal life

Genson and his wife, Susan, had three children. Genson died April 15, 2020 at 78 from bile duct cancer.
Genson was affected by dystonia, a neuromuscular disorder that makes muscles contract involuntarily.