Laurence Drivon never sought recognition. Even his family was unaware until his death in August of the number of charitable and civic groups in which he participated or held titles...

Not too many attorneys have pictures of themselves with the late "King of Torts" Melvin Belli or Pope John Paul II. Nor do they have overhead mirrors above their desk or a black Jolly Roger pirate flag outside their door...

Laurence Drivon learned the value of hard work early in life, putting himself through college as a peanut vendor in the 1930s. And when he no longer could afford law school, he sought knowledge independently and passed the state bar exam despite not having a law degree....

Intangibles often serve as deal-clinchers for successful plaintiffs’ lawyers. With some, it might be an engaging personality. Others might have a natural arrogance that appeals to clients and jurors. In Larry Drivon’s case, an unwavering resilience led to a remarkable career that spanned nearly four decades...