On October 8, 2026, the Youth Law Center recognized those who support its mission of helping young people, holding systems accountable, and creating lasting change. Coopers LLP’s Bryan Vix’s efforts on behalf of a young man held in isolation in San Francisco’s juvenile hall, supported by Kimberly Wong, Robert Igleheart, Maryanne Cooper, and Miles Cooper, received recognition.
The Coopers team accepting the award at The Loren Warboys Unsung Heroes Celebration.
The young man was held in isolation for days, contrary to California’s 2016 law limiting room confinement in juvenile facilities. Bryan co-counseled the case with noted civil rights attorney Brian Gearinger. For decades YLC has worked to end solitary confinement for young people. That work culminated in a 2016 law sharply restricting room confinement. But the laws matter only when they are followed, and when those who don’t follow them are held accountable. The federal civil rights case required the team to navigate the unfamiliar requirements of the juvenile system. The team also had to fight for access to confidential records and facility documentation, take numerous depositions, and oppose a motion to dismiss.
The work in this case required the team to stretch, was intellectually rewarding, and helped send a message: no-one is above the law.
Learn more about YLC’s Unsung Heroes program.
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