Stephen R. Cooper

Stephen R. Cooper is a respected attorney and partner at Cooper & Rueter, L.L.P.,  who serves clients across Arizona in real estate law, business, water, and municipal matters. His practice covers real estate development and land planning law, commercial transactions, commercial litigation, Indian law, and business entity formation. He also represents public bodies and improvement districts on important legal issues. Through careful advice, practical strategy, and strong advocacy, he helps clients solve problems, protect assets, manage growth, and move projects forward with confidence today.

Stephen studied at Central Arizona College and later attended Arizona State University, where he earned a B.S. in 1979. He then completed his J.D. at Southwestern University School of Law in 1983. This academic path gave him knowledge in analysis, research, writing, and legal reasoning. Those skills continue to support his work for businesses, landowners, public agencies, and community organizations facing complex legal and regulatory matters.

Stephen, admitted to the Arizona bar in 1983 and to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, has built a long career advising private and public clients. His work includes serving as city or town attorney for several Arizona communities and as counsel for multiple water and improvement districts. In these roles, he has helped clients navigate regulation, development, governance, contracts, and disputes, while guiding decisions affecting land use, infrastructure, and public services.

Stephen R. Cooper has held roles on state boards, judicial and clemency nominating bodies, and historic preservation organizations. This experience adds practical value for clients who need guidance on public policy, local government, and regulated industries. By combining legal knowledge with public-sector insight, he helps people and organizations make informed decisions, reduce risk, and address challenges effectively.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Cooper & Rueter, L.L.P.
• Member, State Bar of Arizona

Licensed State

• Arizona

Education

• Southwestern University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Arizona State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)
• Central Arizona College
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges