Paul Cooper was educated at the University of South Carolina and received an LL.B. degree in 1913. He was married to Miss Margaret Harris. He practiced law in Columbia from 1913 until the time of his death in 1956, except for a time when he served as a First Lieutenant in World War I.
During his legal career, he built an extensive and lucrative practice and headed several prominent law firms. He served as President of the Richland County Bar Association, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the South Carolina Bar Association, and as City Attorney of Columbia for 23 years.
An advocate of outstanding ability, he was celebrated as a trial lawyer. He was a shrewd judge of human behavior and endowed with keen insight. He was a helpful friend and a joyful companion.