Famous Italian Lawyers

Giovanni Falcone was an Italian judge and prosecuting magistrate known for his relentless efforts to combat the Sicilian Mafia. Working from his office in Palermo, Sicily, Falcone dedicated his career to overthrowing the power of organized crime. He played a key role in the Maxi Trial in 1986–1987, a significant legal battle against the Mafia. Tragically, Falcone was assassinated in 1992 by the Corleonesi Mafia in the Capaci bombing, reflecting the immense risks he faced in his pursuit of justice.

Virginia Elena Raggi is an Italian lawyer and politician affiliated with the Five Star Movement (M5S). She served as Mayor of Rome from 2016 to 2021, having been elected to the Rome city council in 2013. Raggi made history by becoming the first woman and the first M5S member to be elected mayor of Rome in the 2016 municipal election. Following her party's defeat in the 2021 Rome municipal election, Raggi concluded her term as mayor.

Luca Cordero di Montezemolo is a prominent Italian businessman known for his roles as former Chairman of Ferrari and Fiat S.p.A. He has also served as President of Confindustria and FIEG. Montezemolo is recognized for his involvement in founding and leading NTV, Europe's first private open access operator of high-speed trains. In 2009, he established Future Italy, a free market think tank, and later aligned with Civic Choice in the 2013 Italian parliamentary election.

Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati is an Italian lawyer and politician, known for her role as Minister of Institutional Reforms since 2022. She made history as the first woman to serve as President of the Italian Senate from 2018 to 2022. Casellati is affiliated with the liberal-conservative party Forza Italia and has previously held positions as Undersecretary of Health and Justice in the government. In 2022, she was chosen as the centre-right coalition's candidate for President of Italy, showcasing her extensive experience in Italian politics.

Saint Cajetan was an Italian Catholic priest and religious reformer who co-founded the Theatines, a religious order focused on combating corruption and promoting a life of poverty and simplicity among clergy. He dedicated his life to serving the Church and working towards spiritual renewal, emphasizing the importance of living a virtuous and selfless life. Saint Cajetan was known for his humility, charity, and devotion to helping the poor and marginalized, leaving a lasting impact on the Catholic Church through his teachings and example.

Eugene Scalia is an American lawyer known for his conservative, pro-business, and anti-regulatory agenda. He served as the 28th United States Secretary of Labor under the Trump administration, where he reversed Obama-era labor and employment regulations. Prior to this role, he was the United States Solicitor of Labor under President George W. Bush. Scalia is recognized for his expertise in labor law and has returned to private practice as a partner at Gibson Dunn following his tenure as Secretary of Labor.

Piero Piccioni was a versatile Italian film score composer, pianist, organist, conductor, and lawyer. With a career spanning several decades, Piccioni composed over 300 film soundtracks, showcasing his immense talent and creativity. He made his radio debut in 1938 with his "013" Big Band and gained recognition as the first Italian jazz band to be broadcast in Italy post-World War II. Piccioni's contributions to the world of music and film have left a lasting impact on audiences and industry professionals alike.

Paolo Sarpi was a prominent figure in the Venetian Republic during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He was a theologian, canonist, and state counsellor known for his strong stance against papal authority. Sarpi played a key role in the conflict between Venice and the papacy, advocating for the state's rights over ecclesiastical matters. He was a prolific writer, producing works on history, ecclesiastical benefices, and Venetian policy. Sarpi's influence extended to scientific studies, mathematics, and correspondence with notable figures like Galileo Galilei.

Angelino Alfano is an Italian former politician who held key ministerial positions in the Italian government. He served as Minister of Justice from 2008 to 2011, Minister of the Interior from 2013 to 2016, and Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2016 to 2018. Alfano was also Deputy Prime Minister of Italy from 2013 to 2014. He was the first and only secretary of The People of Freedom party and later led the New Centre-Right party before its dissolution. Alfano is known for his significant contributions to Italian politics.

Alberico Gentili was an Italian jurist and renowned figure in the field of international law. He served as the Regius Professor of Civil Law at the University of Oxford for an impressive 21 years. Gentili is considered a co-founder of international law and is often referred to as the "Father of international law." He was the first non-English person to hold the position of Regius Professor. Gentili authored numerous influential books on international legal doctrines, as well as on theological and literary subjects.

Antonio Di Pietro is an Italian politician, lawyer, and magistrate known for his prominent roles in government and law enforcement. He served as a minister in the Romano Prodi government, a Senator, and a Member of the European Parliament. Di Pietro gained recognition as a prosecutor during the Mani pulite corruption trials of the early 1990s, where he played a key role in exposing and combating corruption in Italy. His professional life showcases a dedication to public service and upholding the rule of law.

Maria Elena Boschi is an Italian lawyer and politician who has been a member of the Chamber of Deputies since 2013. She has held various significant positions within the Italian government, including serving as Minister for Constitutional Reforms and Relations with the Parliament from February 2014 to December 2016. Boschi was also the Secretary of the Council of Ministers in the Gentiloni Cabinet. She is known for her work in implementing government programs and has been associated with both the Democratic Party and Matteo Renzi's Italia Viva party.

Pietro della Vigna was an Italian diplomat and jurist renowned for his service as the secretary and chancellor to Emperor Frederick II. He played a significant role in promoting the fine arts and sciences in Italy, contributing greatly to the nation's welfare. Despite his dedication and accomplishments, he was tragically falsely accused of treason, leading to his imprisonment and subsequent blinding. His story inspired one of Dante Alighieri's characters in the Divine Comedy, immortalizing his legacy in literature.

Bettisia Gozzadini, also known as Bitisia Biltisia and Beatrix, was a prominent Bolognese jurist who lectured at the University of Bologna, believed to be the first woman to teach at a university. She studied philosophy and law under renowned mentors, eventually graduating from the university and teaching law. Gozzadini was a noted orator, delivering a memorable funeral oration. Her professional life was marked by her significant contributions to the field of law, although her writings are believed to be lost.

Irnerius was an Italian jurist known as lucerna juris. He founded the School of Glossators and introduced the study of Roman law, particularly the Corpus Juris Civilis by Justinian I, at the University of Bologna. His interlinear glosses on the Corpus Juris Civilis were instrumental in revitalizing Roman law in Europe. Irnerius' teachings marked a significant cultural shift, establishing a legal tradition that was structured, extensive, and rational, rooted in Roman law principles. His contributions laid the foundation for the development of European law.

Bartolus de Saxoferrato was an Italian law professor and influential jurist of Medieval Roman Law. He was a leading figure of the postglossator school of commentators. His expertise and contributions to legal scholarship earned him widespread admiration among civil lawyers, as evidenced by the saying nemo bonus íurista nisi bartolista, meaning no one is a good lawyer unless they follow Bartolus. Bartolus' professional life was marked by his significant impact on legal education, theory, and practice during the medieval period.

Piero Schlesinger was an accomplished Italian professional with a diverse background in law, finance, and academia. He notably held the position of president at Banca Popolare di Milano for over two decades, from 1971 to 1993. Throughout his career, Schlesinger demonstrated expertise in banking operations, legal matters, and academic leadership. His contributions to the financial sector and his reputation as a respected jurist solidified his legacy as a prominent figure in Italian business and legal circles.

Jole Santelli was an Italian politician affiliated with Forza Italia. She served as the President of Calabria from 15 February 2020 until her passing in October 2020. Throughout her career, she was dedicated to public service and political leadership, working to address the needs and issues facing the region. Santelli's tenure as President was marked by her commitment to improving the lives of the people of Calabria and implementing policies to drive progress and development in the region.

Bartolo Longo was an Italian lawyer who later dedicated his life to the Catholic faith. He claimed to have been a former "Satanic priest" before returning to the Catholic Church. Longo became a Dominican tertiary and focused his efforts on the rosary and devotion to the Virgin Mary. He was recognized for his commitment to the faith and was awarded a papal knighthood of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem for his contributions to the church and his spiritual works.

Gaetano Filangieri was an Italian jurist and philosopher known for his work in legislation and economics. He gained favor with King Ferdinand IV of Naples for his defense of a royal decree reforming justice. Filangieri's main work, La Scienza della Legislazione, emphasized the need for reform and free trade. He resigned from his court appointments to focus on completing his work. Despite facing criticism from ecclesiastical authorities, his writings were well-received across Europe. Filangieri's contributions to legal and economic theory have had a lasting impact.

Paola Severino is an accomplished Italian lawyer, academic, and politician. She has held various prestigious positions throughout her career, including serving as Minister of Justice in the Monti cabinet, being the first woman to hold this role in Italian history. With a background in law and academic research, Severino has worked with notable figures and represented high-profile clients in criminal cases. She has also been involved in teaching and administrative roles at universities, demonstrating a diverse and impactful professional trajectory.

Cino da Pistoia was a renowned Italian jurist and poet known for his contributions to both fields during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. He served as a university teacher, imparting knowledge to notable figures such as Bartolus de Saxoferrato. Cino's intellectual prowess and friendship with Dante Alighieri further solidified his reputation as a respected scholar. His works in jurisprudence and poetry continue to be studied for their insights into the legal and literary traditions of medieval Italy.

Dionisio Anzilotti was an accomplished Italian jurist known for his significant contributions to international law. Serving as a judge of the World Court from 1922 to 1946, he also imparted knowledge as a professor in esteemed universities across Italy. Anzilotti's expertise extended to writing, with his renowned textbook "Corso di diritto internazionale" being widely translated. His legacy includes a lasting impact on legal education and a comprehensive understanding of international law that continues to influence scholars and practitioners worldwide.

Pier Paolo Vergerio the Elder was a prominent figure in Renaissance Italy, known for his multifaceted professional career. As an Italian humanist, he contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual advancements of his time. His expertise in canon law and pedagogy brought him recognition as a skilled scholar and educator. Additionally, Vergerio was involved in politics, serving as a statesman and diplomat. His diverse professional roles showcased his versatility and influence across various fields during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Franciscus Accursius was an Italian lawyer known for his tact and legal expertise. He gave lectures on law at the University of Oxford and served as King's Secretary in England. He practiced law in Bologna and was highly respected in the field. Despite his legal accomplishments, he is famously mentioned in Dante's Inferno among the sodomites. The tomb of Franciscus and his father, Accursius, in Bologna is inscribed with their names and their legacy as legal scholars.

Azo of Bologna, an Italian jurist, held the esteemed position of a professor of civil law at Bologna. He is renowned for his influential work, Summa Codicis, which has left a lasting impact on legal scholarship. Azo's expertise and teachings in civil law were highly respected, establishing him as a prominent figure in the field. His work was so esteemed that it was later translated into Old French, further solidifying his legacy as a significant contributor to legal studies.

Lorenzo Acquarone had a distinguished professional career as an Italian lawyer and politician. Throughout his life, he was known for his expertise in law and his dedication to public service. Acquarone's legal skills were highly respected, and he successfully navigated the complexities of the Italian legal system. As a politician, he served his community with integrity and worked tirelessly to advocate for the interests of his constituents. Acquarone's contributions to the legal and political realms left a lasting impact on Italian society.

Prospero Farinacci was an influential Italian Renaissance jurist, lawyer, and judge known for his significant contributions to criminal law. His work, Praxis et Theorica Criminalis, exerted a strong influence on legal systems in Civil law countries up to the Age of Enlightenment. Farinacci gained notoriety for his defense of Beatrice Cenci, a prominent figure in a high-profile criminal case. As a judge, he was renowned for his strict sentencing practices, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable legal figure during his professional career.

Renzo Gattegna was an accomplished Italian lawyer who made significant contributions to the legal field. He served as the president of the Union of Italian Jewish Communities, demonstrating his dedication to advocating for the rights and interests of the Jewish community in Italy. Gattegna's leadership skills and expertise were evident when he succeeded Claudio Morpurgo as the president of the national association. Throughout his professional life, Gattegna's commitment to upholding justice and promoting unity within the Jewish community left a lasting impact on those he served.

Michele Sindona was an Italian banker known as "The Shark" in banking circles. He was involved in dealings with the Sicilian Mafia and the Vatican, and was a member of the secret Masonic lodge Propaganda Due. Sindona's professional life was marked by financial scandals, fraud, and corruption. He was convicted of various crimes, including murder, and ultimately met a fatal end in prison while serving a life sentence. Sindona's career was tainted by illegal activities and connections to organized crime.

Martinus Gosia, a renowned 12th-century Italian jurist, was a prominent figure among the Four Doctors of Bologna. He was recognized as a key glossator and headed one of the two prevailing schools at the University of Bologna, along with Bulgarus. The followers of Martinus, known as the commentators, established a significant presence in legal scholarship. Martinus Gosia's professional life was marked by his influential contributions to legal education and his role in shaping the intellectual landscape of his time.

Pasquale Fiore was an Italian jurist and politician with a distinguished academic career. After obtaining his degree in Naples in 1860, he secured a professorship in international law at the University of Urbino in 1863 before moving to the University of Pisa in 1865. He authored significant works in international law, which garnered attention both in Italy and abroad. Fiore later held professorships at the universities of Turin and Naples, where he made notable contributions to the fields of comparative private law and international law. In recognition of his expertise, he was appointed as a senator in 1910.

Jacopo Aconcio was an Italian notable for his diverse professional pursuits. He excelled as a jurist, theologian, philosopher, and engineer, demonstrating a deep understanding across multiple disciplines. Aconcio's lasting legacy lies in his significant contribution to the history of religious toleration, a topic that he explored and championed during his career. Through his work and writings, Aconcio left a mark on the intellectual landscape of his time, promoting ideas that continue to resonate in discussions surrounding tolerance and coexistence.

Pasquale Stanislao Mancini was an esteemed Italian jurist and statesman known for his significant contributions in the legal and political realms. Throughout his professional life, he served in various high-ranking positions, including as Minister of Justice and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Mancini played a pivotal role in shaping Italy's legal system and was instrumental in diplomatic negotiations, particularly in relation to international treaties and agreements. His expertise and leadership were widely respected, establishing him as a prominent figure in Italian legal and political circles.