Williams & Connolly LLP

Overview

Williams & Connolly LLP is widely regarded as one of the finest litigation firms in the United States, with a white-collar criminal defense practice that has represented presidents, senators, Fortune 500 executives, and high-profile public figures. Founded in 1967 by legendary trial lawyer Edward Bennett Williams, the firm continues his tradition of fierce advocacy in the most consequential criminal cases. Williams & Connolly's criminal defense team handles federal investigations, grand jury proceedings, securities fraud, public corruption, antitrust violations, and international criminal matters. The firm is known for its no-compromise approach to trial preparation and its willingness to go to verdict when it serves the client's interests.

Strengths

• +Legendary reputation as one of America's premier litigation and defense firms
• +Has represented presidents, senators, and Fortune 500 executives in criminal matters
• +No-compromise approach to trial preparation with exceptional courtroom talent
• +Handles the most complex federal investigations and white-collar prosecutions
• +Founded by Edward Bennett Williams — decades of institutional defense excellence

Considerations

• -Among the most expensive defense firms in the country — premium rates
• -Primarily takes high-profile, high-stakes cases — may not accept smaller matters
• -Washington D.C.-based with primary focus on federal and D.C. jurisdiction cases
• -Extremely selective in client intake — not accessible to all defendants

Best For

• *Corporate executive facing SEC investigation and potential criminal securities fraud charges
• *Public official under federal investigation for corruption needing the most experienced defense firm available
• *High-net-worth individual targeted in a complex federal white-collar prosecution