Clyde DeWitt, a luminary in the field of First Amendment law and a steadfast advocate for the adult industry passed away on Saturday night in hospice care in Las Vegas, following an extended battle with cancer. He was 75 years old.

Clyde’s journey in law began after graduating from the University of Houston, Bates College of Law, where he distinguished himself as a member of the Board of Editors of The Houston Law Review and was elected to the Order of The Barons for academic achievement. His legal career was as varied as it was impactful, starting as an Assistant District Attorney in Houston, Texas, where he notably served as lead counsel in the precedent-setting case of State of Texas v. Ronald Clark O’Bryan.

In 1980, Clyde shifted his focus to the defense of the First Amendment, particularly within the adult entertainment sector. As a partner in the law firm Weston, Garrou & DeWitt for 27 years, he became a nationally recognized figure, handling a wide array of cases from obscenity trials to copyright and trademark disputes. His work was not just about legal victories but about safeguarding the principle of free expression.

Clyde’s contributions extended beyond the courtroom. He was a prolific writer and speaker, known for his engaging and insightful commentary on legal issues affecting the adult industry.

His column “Legalese” in AVN was a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of law and adult entertainment. His expertise and wit also made him a sought-after panelist at industry conventions.

His legacy includes not just the landmark legal battles he fought but also the guidance he provided to many in the adult industry. Clyde was more than an attorney; he was a mentor, a friend, and a champion for the rights of individuals to express themselves freely.

Clyde’s life was rich and full outside the courtroom as well. Born in Racine, Wisconsin, and raised in the Chicago area, he remained an “insufferable Cubs fan” throughout his life. He was a man of diverse interests and talents, holding degrees in electrical engineering and business administration in addition to his law degree.

Clyde is survived by his beloved wife, Cherie Lee Williams-DeWitt, who shared his fight and his passions. Together, they navigated the challenges of his illness with courage and grace.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the future to honor Clyde’s remarkable journey and the indelible mark he has left on the world. Details will be shared in due course. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to cancer research organizations to continue the fight against the disease that took Clyde from us too soon.

Clyde DeWitt’s legacy will live on through the freedoms he fought to protect and the community he served so diligently. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and by many who benefited from his work without ever knowing his name. Rest in peace, Clyde. Your battle is over, but your impact endures.