On May 22, 2010, Joseph Cotchett was honored by Notre Dame De Namur University with the Community Spirit Award. University President Judith Maxwell Grieg said "Joe Cotchett has spent his life both in and out of the courtroom advocating for those who are less fortunate and couldn't fight for themselves. Along the way, he found the time and energy to work for numerous community organizations dedicated to making life better for those in need." The school created the award to recognize individuals who have given their time, energy and resources to improve the quality of life for others. Cotchett has been named one of the 100 most influential lawyers in the nation for the past 10 years. His career has involved representing the disadvantaged and doing extensive pro bono work. The honorary committee for the President's Gala honoring Cotchett included Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Senators Diane Feinstein and Barbara Boxer, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and actor-director Clint Eastwood.
