After receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Stanford University, Mr. Cole attended the University of Michigan Law School where he received his Juris Doctor degree in 1973. Before leaving Michigan to return to California, Mr. Cole established himself as a capable trial attorney by trying three jury trials to successful conclusions and participating in numerous hearings before administrative tribunals. He was also honored with a Reginald Heber Smith Community Lawyer Fellowship in 1973 and 1974.