The day of the low-speed Bronco chase to the Rockingham mansion, Cochran was scheduled by the television show Nightline as a legal expert to comment on the developments of the day.  While on camera, Cochran declared Simpson to be "presumed innocent."  However, off camera, Cochran told a friend, "O.J. is in massive denial, he obviously did it."

Shapiro hired Cochran at Simpson's request. Cochran had known Simpson casually prior to representing him, though only casually.  Cochran's willingness to meet with Simpson in jail helped Cochran to find favor with Simpson, and ultimately to displace Shapiro as lead counsel.

In addition to O.J. Simpson, Cochran's high profile clients have included Michael Jackson, Reginald Denny, Abner Louima, Geronimo Pratt (former Black Panther), Todd Bridges, James Brown, Angela Igwe, and Cynthia Wiggins. Cochran has been selected as one of the best trial lawyers in the country in 1994.  Cochran has written his autobiography, Journey to Justice, and drives a Rolls-Royce with the vanity plate "JC JR."