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William M Butler Jr

Federal crime Attorney at Louisville, KY

4.7   14 reviews

also known as Bill Butler

  • Licensed for 36 years
    State KY
    Acquired 1986
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About William

Learn William’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Federal crime
    80%

    35 years

  2. Criminal defense
    20%
    Focus on State and Federal criminal defense.

    35 years

I first became interested in becoming a lawyer after reading books about noted trial lawyers such as Gerry Spence, Race Horse Haynes and Melvin Belli.  I was inspired by their stories to go to law school even though I had already graduated from college and owned a successful business.  I sold my business, was admitted to law school and dedicated myself to learning everything I could about being a courtroom lawyer.

 

I learned that trying a case well is a skill that can’t be learned just from books.  It takes a  lot of experience in a courtroom to really develop the ability.

 

I have now been a trial lawyer for over 27 years.  My first jury trial took place in 1987-an acquittal on a DUI case.  Since that time, I have tried many cases in both State and Federal Courts ranging from murder and drug trafficking down to accusations of stealing a pack of gum from Krogers.  Most cases settle without the need for a trial but I believe my clients receive more favorable offers of settlement because Prosecutors know that if an offer is not fair, I will not hesitate to go to trial and that I have the skills and experience to obtain a favorable outcome.

 

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Contact William

Similar lawyers nearby

William. M. Butler Jr, Trial Lawyer
500 W. Jefferson St.
Suite 1520
Louisville, KY, 40202

Reviews

4.7 / 5.0
  14 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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1 Star
 
7%
Posted by Tracy | November 19, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
I have used Mr Butler for over 20 years. He is a wonderful lawyer. He gets all of my traffic tickets reduced or dismissed. I couldn't see every going to another lawyer.
Posted by Cassie | May 23, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent lawyer
Since I have retained mr. Butler he has worked endlessly on my case. He got me out of jail when there was little to no hope of me getting out at all. He is still currently working on my case and has gone above and beyond my expectations. I have 100 prevent faith that my outcome will be everything he has told me to expect. He has been honest and not beaten around the bush with me at all. He has even done extra work when he did not have to. He currently represents me and my husband . I can't think of better hands to be in .
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Posted by anonymous | March 29, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best in Kentucky
Bill got a great deal for me. I was guilty but he prevented me from going to jail. He always answered my questions fast and in a clear way. I will always call Bill Butler if I run into an legal issue
Posted by canary | January 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saves me every time!
I've used Bill to represent me over 30 years now.. Some years I need his representation some years I don't but if I do I can always count on him to get me outta the jam I've gotten myself into.... Thanks Canary
Posted by Deborah | November 10, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Legal issues
Mr. Butler has done a wonderful job in representing our son. He is knowledgeable, confident and provides excellent advice while explaining next steps to our son. He has provided key information to us; we are confident in Mr. Butler. He is well respected by the judges and is respectful to other attorneys. He points out the facts of the case to the judge.
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Posted by Happy client | September 17, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great lawyer
Mr Butler represented me in 2 assault 3 and 1 resisting arrest charges on 4 deputy sheriff's and I was found not guilty by jury trial. Mr Butler believed in the facts and was confident and professional during the entire process. Thank you Mr Butler for all your help.
Posted by Laura | September 15, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Recommendation For Mr Butler
Mr Butler is very good criminal defense lawyer and helped our case to the fullest extent of the law. He was on time and very helpful with telling us what we needed to have in order to proceed, along with possible outcomes and upstanding knowledge of what laws are and what they pertain too. He always responds with in 24 hours to calls and messages as well. We worked with him for over a year in criminal case for our family member and he was very helpful. He doesn't judge and didn't make us feel it was all about the money like some small town lawyers have in the past. He is very honest and up front about the consequences of breaking the law and what the court system can offer and what rights we had denied do to mishap and poor judgement of local authorities with the two cases we hired him to take on. He keeps up with the local laws and doesn't mind reminding the courts of what those laws states when rights have been violated on be half of his clients. If I ever need a lawyer in the future I will be consulting him first and for most for the job. I recommend him over some of the local small town favorites I have worked with in the past and have no regrets of hiring and consulting with him from the big city of Louisville KY. I promise you won't be disappointed in his work and commitment to your case.
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Posted by anonymous | September 2, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Always there for you
Mr. Butler was there for me whenever i needed him, and his incredible and extensive knowledge of the law, combined with a relaxed-yet-professional demeanor made me feel comfortable at all times. Even when he was busy, he made arrangements to make sure i was never alone at any stage of the legal process. Mr. Butler's services were worth every penny.
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Posted by Tom | August 27, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you, Mr. Butler
Bill Butler has helped me out several times over the years. At the end of my cases, I was surprised that I got such good deals. Bill even prevented me from being charged in one case. All I had to do was follow his expert advice. I highly recommend Bill Butler.
Posted by Tom | August 27, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you, Mr. Butler
Bill Butler has helped me out several times over the years. At the end of my cases, I was surprised that I got such good deals. Bill even prevented me from being charged in one case. All I had to do was follow his expert advice. I highly recommend Bill Butler.
Posted by Robert | August 27, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend!
My case was a Federal case and Mr. Butler represented me with a very positive outcome. He was always available and accessible and kept me informed during all phases of my case. He worked enthusiastically on my case and I felt that he was completely engaged at all times. His fee was quite reasonable and I felt totally satisfied with the outcome. I would recommend Mr. Butler to others without reservation.
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Posted by anonymous | August 19, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Great Lawyer
I Antonio Tiofil was charged with trafficking cocaine. William Butler caused the charge to dismissed due to to his persistence and negotiating ability. he appeared in court on my behalf at least 10 times before he was able to have the charges to be dismissed. His persistence and determination saved me from a felony conviction. I would use him again without question.
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Posted by Bob | March 21, 2014
Bill Butler saved my reputation
Bill was efficient and expeient in handling my case to a successful outcome. He saved my reputation and my marriage. He always answered my calls and messages promptly. Bill reviewed my case and formulated a plan which he executed to perfection.
Posted by anonymous | March 27, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Nightmare
I do not believe he did a good job representing me at all and the outcome he set me to believe I would receive was far from what the judge sentenced. He was tardy returning my calls and emails. Secondly after I was taken into custody he never took any my calls or my spouse's. I feel he took my money and rode off into the sunset before we even entered the courtroom, not once have I felt he had my best interest at heart. I would not recommend even to my worst enemy especially considering often time someone's freedom is on the line.
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Response from William Butler July 3, 2016
The client was accused by the United States of stealing over 3 million dollars from his employer. After the sentencing hearing, the United States reduced the accusation to the Defendant having stolen $2,260,000.00. I argued, on my client’s behalf, that he only took $454,000.00, based on the client’s statement to me. Due to my argument both oral and written, and after a lengthy court hearing, the Court finally found that he stole $623,000.00. This was $2,577,000.00 less than he was accused of taking by the United States originally. At sentencing, the United States argued that the sentence should be between 78-97 months which was the “guideline sentence”. Instead, based on my presentation, the Court sentenced the client to 60 months. The Judge commented that he “used his employer’s bank account like it was his personal piggy bank”. I saved the client between 18-37 months. During the time period of this case, I emailed the client 27 times and always responded to his telephone calls, either personally or through my paralegal. I have never refused calls from the Defendant or his spouse. I never told client what sentence the Court would impose, only that I would work diligently to persuade the Judge, based on the facts, to sentence him to the least possible number of months, which I did.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.7 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Trial Lawyer
  • William M. Butler, Jr., Lawyer
  • 1986 - Present
  • Member
  • Criminal Justice Act Panel Federal Defender
  • 1986 - 2014

Education

  • Louis D. Brandeis School of Law at the University of Louisville
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1986
  • University of Kentucky
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1972

Legal Cases

  • U.S. v. Panayi
  • Acquitted by jury trial
  • U.S. v. Cruz-Narvaez
  • Case dismissed by United States two days before scheduled jury trial
  • Commonwealth v. Lucas-Foote
  • Acquittal after jury trial
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Kentucky Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Association of Federal Defense Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • United States District Court for the District of South Carolina
  • Lawyer
  • 2013 - Present
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
  • Lawyer
  • 2003 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana
  • Lawyer
  • 2001 - Present
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit
  • Lawyer
  • 1992 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • Lifetime Member
  • 1989 - Present
  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1986 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky
  • Lawyer
  • 1986 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky
  • Lawyer
  • 1986 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • Top Contributor Award
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Continuing Legal Education Award
  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • 2009
  • Continuing Legal Education Award
  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • 2008
  • Continuing Legal Education
  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • 1995
  • Professional Responsibility Award
  • Louis D. Brandeis School of Law at the University of Louisville
  • 1985
View all awards

Publications

  • AVVO Legal Guides
  • How a Pending Criminal Case May Effect Noncitizens
  • 2014
  • AVVO Legal Guides
  • Allocution : The statement made by a defendant before s/he is sentenced
  • 2014

Speaking Engagements

  • Noon Seminar
  • Driving Under The Influence Practice
  • 1989

Attorney endorsements

Received (27)
Given (22)
Endorse William
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 21
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Bill is an excellent and doggedly determined lawyer. Fights for his clients and goes the extra mile."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Mr. Butler is at the top of the profession. I have been practicing for over 16 years and go to him regularly for advice. Recently went to trial with him (he was first chair and I was second chair) and was highly impressed by not only his intellect but also his drive to be prepared for all legal issues which may arise- both before and during trial. There is not a better criminal defense attorney out there. I look forward to working with him again."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Federal crime Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"William Butler is an excellent advocate for his clients. I am truly impressed by his vast legal knowledge, professionalism, and high work ethic. Mr. Butler is a skilled lawyer who is dedicated to obtaining favorable results for his clients. I fully recommend and endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 18
Relationship: Other
"Experience and knowledge defines this attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Bill Butler is an outstanding lawyer. He fights harder for his clients than anyone I know. He will travel anywhere to defend a client an he consistently gets great results. I recommend him any type of criminal case, state or federal."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse William. Highly respected in the legal community. A skilled lawyer with a strong reputation for client advocacy and dedication."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. William is a sharp witted, outside-the-box thinker who brings these attributes to the table for his clients' benefit."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant criminal defense attorney, highly respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Federal crime Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I enjoyed reading Mr. Butler's answers on AVVO and his website. I know that his knowledge reached far beyond this forum and into practical application in the courtroom. You know quality representation when you see the results. You betcha - I endorse this fine attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Butler is a skilled and respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients."
Federal crime Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse William. He is well versed in the law and an asset to the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse William. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Federal crime Attorney | May 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly recommend this attorney for those seeking counsel in Federal Crime or Criminal Defense. Mr. Butler is obviously well-versed in the practice of law and furthermore, he cares deeply about the welfare of his clients. Attorney Butler is committed to client satisfaction and prompt follow-up to client questions and concerns."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Mr. Butler. William Butler is an extremely experienced and successful lawyer with a wide range of experience and is able to offer the best service to his clients. He will deliver positive results for you legal matters."
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Criminal defense
Federal crime
Personal injury
DUI and DWI
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