Former Oregon U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams Joins Best Best & Krieger as Partner
Williams Brings 20-year DOJ Tenure and Perspective to Bear for Regional and National Clients
BEND, ORE – Best Best & Krieger LLP is pleased to announce that Billy J. Williams, former U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, has joined the firm’s Bend, Oregon office as partner in the Environmental & Natural Resources practice group. He joins on the heels of BBK’s expansion into Oregon.
“We are honored that Billy chose to launch his private practice with BBK. In addition to the relationships he has built and his many accomplishments, he brings a history of leadership, a unifying approach to divisive issues, and proven strategies for solving complex legal problems,” said Environmental & Natural Resources Practice Group Leader Joseph Byrne. “He will be a cornerstone for the firm and our clients as we continue to expand in the Pacific Northwest and nationally.”
Williams’ practice covers a full range of environmental and litigation issues. In addition to his government agency experience, he has ever-relevant experience in land management, civil disputes, crisis management, tribal matters, corporate and government investigations, cannabis regulation and more.
“After many years and opportunities in the public sector, I feel privileged to embark on a new path with such an esteemed national firm,” Williams said. “I look forward to serving BBK’s clients and my new colleagues with my distinctive perspective, commitment to building bridges, and deep understanding of our region’s history and needs.”
During his 20-year tenure with the Department of Justice, Williams held numerous positions of leadership. As U.S. attorney in Oregon from 2015-2021, he worked to forge relationships, foster understanding, and represent victim and state interests. He served on numerous advisory subcommittees and working groups, including the Native American Issues Subcommittee, Civil Rights Subcommittee, Border and Immigration Subcommittee, Domestic Terrorism Executive Committee, Ninth Circuit Fairness Committee and as chair of the Attorney General’s Marijuana Working Group. Before serving as U.S. attorney, Williams held DOJ roles as first assistant U.S. attorney, chief of the Criminal Division, chief of the Violent Crimes Unit, and as Oregon’s Indian Country assistant U.S. attorney and tribal liaison.
Before launching his career in federal service, he served as a senior deputy district attorney in Oregon’s Multnomah County and as a state prosecutor handling violent crimes.
“Billy is widely known for his leadership, consensus-building, and balanced and effective litigation skills. I look forward to working with Billy as he serves our clients in Oregon and across the nation with this same fervor and balance,” said BBK Bend Office Managing Partner Erin MacDonald.
Williams earned his J.D. from Willamette University College of Law and his B.A. in criminal justice from Washington State University.
Media Contact: Bethany Chieffallo • (202) 370-5302 • bethany.chieffallo@bbklaw.com
