It is with deep sadness that Community Legal Aid shares news of the passing of a friend and colleague, John Petit, Managing Attorney in the Canton office. John was not only a dedicated professional but also a compassionate individual who made a significant impact on the lives of countless people in his community.
John dedicated his life and career to helping others. He joined Community Legal Aid in 2006 as a staff attorney, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to justice.
Before joining Legal Aid, John had a distinguished career in various legal settings, including as an attorney for multiple child support agencies, an assistant prosecutor, and in private practice.
His broad range of experience in different legal fields allowed him to approach each case with a comprehensive understanding of the law and a deep empathy for those he served.
In addition to his work in child support and prosecution, John’s most recent role before joining Community Legal Aid was with the Jesuits of Michigan and Ohio. There, he worked tirelessly to provide legal services to low-income and homeless clients.
This work reflected John’s lifelong passion for serving the underserved and fighting for the rights of those who often had no voice in the legal system. His dedication to ensuring that marginalized individuals had access to legal representation was unwavering, and he approached each case with a sense of duty and care that was truly remarkable.
Throughout his tenure at Community Legal Aid, John embodied the values of integrity, compassion, and professionalism. As a managing attorney in the Canton office, he not only provided exceptional legal services but also mentored and guided a team of dedicated attorneys and staff.
His leadership was characterized by a quiet strength and a genuine desire to help others grow both professionally and personally. John was a mentor to many, always willing to offer guidance, share his knowledge, and support his colleagues in any way he could.
John’s legacy extends far beyond the legal cases he handled. His genuine concern for his clients, many of whom faced difficult and complex circumstances, was evident in every interaction.
He believed deeply in the importance of justice, and he worked tirelessly to make sure that those who came to him for help were treated with dignity and respect. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life made him a trusted and valued advocate, and his impact on the Canton community—and the broader region—will be felt for years to come.
