William "Bill" Magnussen, 72, known as the "go-to" Fort Worth criminal defense attorney for generations of people in a serious legal scrape, died Saturday at his Fort Worth home. He had cancer.
"He was truly one of the icons ... especially in Tarrant County," said Ernie Bates, a longtime friend and colleague. "If you or a member of your family were in trouble, he was the one to call."Fort Worth journalist Mike Cochran, author of Texas vs. Davis, noted that when Cullen Davis was arrested on suspicion of murder in 1976, Mr. Magnussen was the first person he called for legal advice.The millionaire oilman, who ended up defended by Richard "Racehorse" Haynes, was acquitted after his first trial ended in a mistrial.Bates said Mr. Magnussen was soft-spoken, never wanted to be in the limelight and knew how to treat people on both sides of the court system."He was just as comfortable talking to a Supreme Court judge as he was a homicide detective or a neighbor," Bates said. "We are going to miss him."Recalling his generosity, Cochran said that every Monday, Mr. Magnussen would bring sacks of sweets to the staff at Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House, which was his favorite place to eat.Jack Strickland, Tarrant County deputy chief district attorney, said Mr. Magnussen always seemed to keep things in perspective and didn't take his work personally."He was an old-school lawyer, an absolute gentleman with his clients, his adversaries and with the court," Strickland said.A statement e-mailed to the Star-Telegram by family members said that though they are grieving, they will also celebrate his remarkable life."We are deeply saddened by the loss of our father, grandfather, husband and friend. ... Bill was dedicated to the legal profession and said he never felt like he worked a day in his life since he loved his job for 47 years," it said.Mr. Magnussen is survived by his wife, Edie Magnussen; his brother, Mark Magnussen; his daughters, Lynne Magnussen Thompson, Missy Magnussen Wallace and Laura Magnussen Cook; and seven grandchildren.Funeral arrangements were pending.Susan McFarland, 817-390-7547Have more to add? News tip? Tell us
