William Joseph Mills
Copyright infringement Attorney at Chicago, IL
also known as Billy Joe Mills
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- William Mills
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State Years Illinois - IL 13 years California - CA 29 years -
Licensed for 13 yearsState ILAcquired 2009StatusActive and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found
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Licensed for 29 yearsState CAAcquired 1993StatusActive No misconduct found
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
William Joseph Mills
Copyright infringement Attorney at Chicago, IL
very happy with service provided.
I am very happy with services (copyright violation) provided by Billy Mills. He took time to help with my questions and responded in timely manner. I would strongly recommend hiring him for legal services.
... Read more
anonymous
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Lawyer, Protector, Friend
When we were looking for a lawyer to represent us against a copyright troll in CA, I was at first hesitant to contact Billy as he was in Chicago. So I called a few others first and Billy last. Billy was by far the most reasonable and knowledgeable about the industry. He did a superb job at getting a settlement that we could live with. He spent quite a bit of time going back and forth with the troll and us. I believe he does this work out of principle as he surely spent far more time than the fee we paid him.
When we called Billy, we were feeling afraid, tense, and extremely nervous. Within minutes, Billy made us feel secure and relaxed because we knew he would be protecting us from that point on. He lived up to his reputation and we cannot thank him enough. Strangely, I feel like I owe him more money for how much work he did to represent us. How many times has anyone hired a lawyer and felt that way? From our experience with Billy and his caring nature, I truly consider him a friend and hope to someday payback his kindness,
... Read more
Ed
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
About William
Learn William’s areas of practice.
5
Practice areas
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Civil rights30%
9 years
-
Copyright infringement30%
11 years
-
Trademark application15%
11 years
-
Wills and living wills15%
11 years
-
Internet10%
11 years
I graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2006 with a degree in Political Science, Finance, and Economics. I stayed around Champaign for law school and graduated in 2009. I then worked at a big law firm in downtown Chicago. It was boring, so I quit in early 2011.
I thought that I could not be happy practicing law - I was wrong. After I quit the traditional law firm life, I began representing my own clients. I realize now that I love helping normal people and small business owners address a variety of legal issues. I am passionate about helping startups, social enterprises, and nonprofits. I also handle issues involving copyright, BitTorrent downloads, trademark, defamation, free speech issues, insurance, landlord-tenant, and wills. For BitTorrent and defamation issues, I serve as a subpoena defense resource attorney with the Electronic Frontier Foundation. I am also a member of Harvard's Online Media Legal Network.
I love social entrepreneurship and technology. I have started and failed at creating a charitable vitamin company called UnaBellaVita. I am now working on building Storymap and Polity. My hobbies include photography, video, front-end programming, hiking, writing folk songs, and writing stories.
Political participation and activism are recurring themes in my life. I participated in and setup many public debates back in my University days. I wrote a political column in the student paper and created a blog with a collection of writers. I worked for former Governor Jim Edgar at the Institute of Government and Public Affairs. I'm an Abe Lincoln lover and coincidentally was the Lincoln Academy Student Laureate back yonder in my glory days. Nowadays, I am unhappy with both political parties. I am slowly at work on a short book that hopes to create a new political philosophy that combines the best ideas of free markets and of a morality that focuses on the most vulnerable members of society.
I claim to be the friendliest attorney in Chicago, so don’t hesitate to contact me:
@billyjoemills
Photos and videos
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Reviews
5.0
/ 5.0
22 customer reviews
Posted by anonymous
| November 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
very happy with service provided.
I am very happy with services (copyright violation) provided by Billy Mills. He took time to help with my questions and responded in timely manner. I would strongly recommend hiring him for legal services.
Posted by Ed
| March 27, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lawyer, Protector, Friend
When we were looking for a lawyer to represent us against a copyright troll in CA, I was at first hesitant to contact Billy as he was in Chicago. So I called a few others first and Billy last. Billy was by far the most reasonable and knowledgeable about the industry. He did a superb job at getting a settlement that we could live with. He spent quite a bit of time going back and forth with the troll and us. I believe he does this work out of principle as he surely spent far more time than the fee we paid him.
When we called Billy, we were feeling afraid, tense, and extremely nervous. Within minutes, Billy made us feel secure and relaxed because we knew he would be protecting us from that point on. He lived up to his reputation and we cannot thank him enough. Strangely, I feel like I owe him more money for how much work he did to represent us. How many times has anyone hired a lawyer and felt that way? From our experience with Billy and his caring nature, I truly consider him a friend and hope to someday payback his kindness,
Read less
Posted by anonymous
| January 2, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superior Service, Highly Recommended
I was very confused when I received the IP copyright infringement subpoena from my ISP. After reading postings on the Internet, I realized I was in deep trouble. There was significant time loss on ISP’s side, holidays and my preset travels in my case. My stress level was very high.
Fortunately, I found Billy Mills quickly. He was everything that the other reviews complimented: knowledgeable, patient, responsive, strategic, kind, empathetic and cool-headed. His price was more than reasonable and the quality of his service was superior. He kept me well informed and maintained coolness when I got anxious. His experience in negotiation is remarkable. And, the most appreciative part was that he resolved my case satisfactorily in a just couple weeks.
Billy is trustworthy and will be a good attorney for you too.
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Posted by anonymous
| November 26, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
wonderful lawyer
I found Mr. Mills online and used him for a settlement case. He was very knowledgeable. Showed a lot of patience in answering all my questions. And he always reply to emails within hours. His fee was lower than other lawyers that I talked to. Yet the quality of his service was superior. I really appreciate his effort and his professionalism. Highly recommend Mr. Mills to anyone and everyone.
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Posted by anonymous
| November 8, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Good person, good lawyer, and fights the good fight.
Billy is a good person, not just a good lawyer. I found him via a reference form the Electronic Frontier Foundation, where he volunteers his services to clients pro bono. I had created a website about a doctor, and was being sued for defamation. I was facing a lawsuit against someone with much more money. Billy agreed to help me pro bono, to negotiate an out of court settlement. He helps the little guy. He doesn't let people be bullied. I was always able to reach him via e-mail, text, or phone, either the same day I contacted him, or the next. His demeanor is to kill people with kindness. He's one of the nicest people I've met. He is always the coolest head in the negotiation. He sees the big picture, knows what are the serious problems, and what are the things not to worry about. He worked exceptionally well with the plaintiff's attorney, always staying relaxed and cordial. The settlement process was very drawn out, as the plaintiff's attorney would disappear for months, but Billy stayed calm and just went with the flow. I never saw him get flustered. The stresses of the legal process just kind of roll off his back, as he is always focused on the bigger picture. He negotiated a settlement in which both sides were happy, we didn't go to court, and no one had to pay anyone any money. I'm sure there are other good attorneys in Chicago, but I know for certain Billy is one of them. If you are looking for a good attorney, and a genuinely good person, please put him on your list of people to consult with.
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Posted by anonymous
| August 8, 2015
A great lawyer that you can count on
I had a copyright troll case against me. After reading many postings on the Net, I realized I was in deep trouble. I didn't have the time, money, or experiences to deal with this and I was in a panic. I followed experts' advice to look for a competent lawyer to represent me. After I talked with a few highly acclaimed attorneys, I got a sense that most of them wanted me to pay big money to settle and they didn't really care about the impact and burden imposed on me.
Fortunately I eventually talked with Billy and I knew I was in good hands. Billy was patient, responsive, and empathetic. He was knowledgeable and strategic. Within a few weeks the situation was satisfactorily resolved. I am most grateful to Billy. If you have similar situations, I'd highly recommend the best lawyer I've encountered: Mr. Billy Joe Mills.
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Posted by anonymous
| June 25, 2015
IP infringement law suit
A couple of weeks ago I received a IP copyright infringement subpoena in the mail from the Dallas Buyer's Club and my whole world turned up side down. I could not believe what was happening. I felt angry, lost, and confused. I searched frantically for legal help but was bombarded with high priced, uncaring, legal drones that left me desperate. Then I found Firm Equity and everything changed. Billy Mills was courteous, knowledgeable, patience, and understanding of my situation. He put me at ease and walked me through this stressful process all the way through to a reasonable conclusion. I am forever grateful to Billy for his excellent help in this matter. I could not have done it without him. I recommend Billy and Fire Equity highly.
Thank you
Satisfied Customer
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Posted by anonymous
| May 21, 2015
Copyright Problem OVER!
I received a letter from my ISP regarding a patent troll's request for my identity. You are reading this probably because you are doing the same thing I did, researching what to do. In my case, I just so happen to infringe on the worst of the worst of patent trolls. There wasn't too much information but one common suggestion from all sites that I read was that for my particular troll, the "do nothing and wait and see" route would be the worst thing I could do and to immediately seek a lawyer. Billy was the only one who answered my call versus getting a machine. He answered my questions, gave me best and worse case scenarios and did nothing make worse the fear and anxiety I was already feeling. I signed Billy and never looked back. Other than the few emails we had that worked to remind me I got caught with my hand in the cookie jar, I hardly given the ordeal any second thought. After a quick 2 weeks, my case settled on the low but still expensive end and my identity is still anonymous to them. Everyone's situation is different, I was lucky that they caught me on a low number of infringements but in any case, I would recommend Billy without hesitation.
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Posted by anonymous
| February 27, 2015
Excellent and trustworthy!
I recently received a copyright notice from my ISP. I did not have any idea what it meant and how I should be dealing with this. I immediately started looking for help, there were lot of suggestions that I should hire a local attorney.
I am from a different state then were Atty. Billy practices law, so I initially was focusing on retaining local attorney. I talked to few local attorneys, some of them were expensive and none of the attorneys I talked to ever mentioned that there is an option to settle this anonymously through “client trust account”.
Atty. Billy gave me a prompt response when I sought for legal assistance. He assured me that he has handled many out of state cases for settling or shielding from the plaintiff. During this process, he always responded and answered my questions. He is reasonable, his services are exceptional and he will act on your best interest. I am pleased to recommend Atty. Billy without hesitation.
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Posted by anonymous
| December 29, 2014
Peace of mind in Copyright case
I had a copyright case with "The Dallas Buyers club" .
I had no experience with anything like this before and with some searching and shopping around for an Attorney I settled on Billy Mills.
While the case cost me a settlement I was very happy with Billy's handling of my case with plenty of plain speaking advice.
Billy was very responsive to e mails and phone questions (and I had a lot of questions) and he kept me informed at every step.
I would recommend Billy for your copyright case and especially if like me you were naive and scared that this case would cost me badly.
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Posted by Brian
| December 15, 2014
Great Attorney and Peace of Mind
I spoke to Billy shortly after finding out about my John Doe copyright infringement case. I was blindsided by this case, and speaking to Billy really helped calm my nerves from the beginning and throughout the process. If you are in a similar situation I highly recommend him for his expertise and also because he is a very nice guy.
He was very attentive and responsive. The plaintiff attorney in my case was also responsive, so there was progress with the negotiations pretty much every business day. Ultimately, the settlement progressed as Billy had predicted it would (although each case has the potential to be different.)
I took great comfort in reading his other reviews here, when I was in the middle of my case. I'm very happy with how my case turned out. Thanks Billy.
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Posted by Richard
| December 12, 2014
Copyright Settlement
I reviewed Attorneys in my area and after a consultation with Mr. Mills I felt comfortable enough to have him handle my case. Mr. Mills responded to my e-mails quickly and kept me involved on the entire case.
I was satisfied with the final decision.
Posted by Lin
| November 26, 2014
A Wonderful Attorney
I received notice from a movie company for watching a movie online that they said was infringement. He was so nice and considerate and helpful and took care of this case very quickly.
Posted by CN
| October 29, 2014
Highly Recommended - Copyright Troll Cases CEG-TEK
Do you have a copyright troll who has you in their cross hairs? Don't pay thousands for a different attorney when you can get it settled for a more reasonable price. Mr. Mills was very responsive and quick to handle my case. He managed all the dealings with the copyright troll and was very professional and courteous. I highly recommend him if you want to get a copyright troll off your back so you can stop looking over your shoulder for the next three years.
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Posted by anonymous
| October 11, 2014
Responsive, empathetic attorney
Billy negotiated a settlement on a copyright infringement case after helping me thoroughly explore my options. He was extremely responsive, and I couldn't recommend him more.
Posted by Pat
| October 1, 2014
A great lawyer that I trust
I'm glad I had Mr. Mills defended my case on the copyright infringement. I received copyright DCMA letters forwarded from my internet provider having my IP address stamped that I was illegally downloaded copyright contents from the internet. I contacted Mr. Mills and was immediately at ease when I communicated with him via e-mails. Mr. Mills is very knowledgeable. He's unrelenting in looking out for me and resolving the case for my best interest. He's one tough lawyer that I trust. I would not hesitate having Mr. Mills and handle my case again.
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Posted by anonymous
| August 29, 2014
Outstanding Attorney
I recently enlisted the services of William Mills regarding a case of IP copyright infringement.
He immediately gained my confidence during our free consultation with his empathy, extensive knowledge regarding the subject matter, and experience in the field. I accepted his services at a reasonable flat fee, and I was thoroughly impressed with his management of my case.
He had extensive negotiations and discussions with the copyright company and presented me with very reasonable options, allowing timely closure of my case within a week.
I was updated on a daily basis with any new developments regarding my case, and he always made himself available for communication via phone or e-mail.
I found William Mills to be a very capable and outstanding attorney. I am very pleased with the outcome of my case and I highly recommend Mr. Mills, without reservation, to anyone seeking attorney services in a copyright case.
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Posted by anonymous
| August 12, 2014
Professional and Efficient
Billy has helped me through a recent copyright infringement case and given me different options to make the informed decisions. He is empathetic and efficient and helped me navigate through the settlement process. I would highly recommend Billy to anyone involved with these type of cases.
Posted by Stil
| June 6, 2014
I would highly recommend William Joseph Mills
Mr William Mills is very reachable and would very quickly return your phone call or email. He explained to me all options and worked hard to get the best deal for me. I would highly recommend him. He is very down to earth and easy to work with. A friend of mine recommended him and after doing my research I found out that he is the one to work with. Thank you Billy.
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Posted by anonymous
| June 5, 2014
Highly Recommended - Nuisance/Predatory IP Copywrite Case
I recently had Atty Mills represent me in a civil IP copyright case.
My experience was positive, and exceeded my expectations.
He displayed in-depth specific case knowledge, including a thorough understanding of the technology involved, and had direct experience not only with the specific party in the case, but also the individual atty & firm involved.
He did a good job in advising me in the legal technicalities of the matter, and was able to explain well their practical application. He is a good communicator & works in a a timely manner; I never waited more than a business day for a communications response, nor ever felt rushed in our verbal conversations.
He also is a "true believer", in that he feels strongly about the cause he has chosen to pursue & the case-law he does, and is willing to fight, and fight on principle! In addition, his rates are reasonable, and he is willing to be flexible in payment arrangements.
Atty Mills worked with me to determine my goals & desired outcome in my case, and he attained them within my desired time-frame.
I highly recommend him.
And, perhaps the highest accolade: I am consulting with his firm in another unrelated civil matter, and will use his firm again if the situation presents itself.
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Cost
Rates
- Free Consultation 30 minutes
- Hourly Rates $ 150-250 per hour
- Contingency 15%-40%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card
Resume
AVVO RATING
8.5
(Excellent)
Avvo Rating
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Experience & background
Years licensed, work experience, education
Legal community recognition
Peer endorsements, associations, awards
Legal thought leadership
Publications, speaking engagements
Discipline
Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating levels
- 10.0 - 9.0 Superb
- 8.9 - 8.0 Excellent
- 7.9 - 7.0 Very Good
- 6.9 - 6.0 Good
- 5.9 - 5.0 Average
- 4.9 - 4.0 Concern
- 3.9 - 3.0 Caution
- 2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution
- 1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution
Work Experience
- Partner
- FirmEquity
- 2011 - Present
- Associate
- Sedgwick, Detert, Moran & Arnold, LLP (Chicago)
- 2009 - 2011
Education
- University of Illinois College of Law
- JD - Juris Doctor
- 2009
Legal Cases
- Estate of Tamir Rice vs. City of Cleveland
- Ongoing
- Estate of Jordan Baker vs. City of Houston
- Ongoing
- Toveka Baskerville vs. City of Chicago
- Ongoing
Associations
- Electronic Frontier Foundation
- Member
- 2012 - Present
- Online Media Legal Network
- Member
- 2012 - Present
- Restore the Fourth Amendment
- Chicago Chapter
- 2013 - 2014
- Federalist Society
- President
- 2007 - 2009
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
Honors and Awards
- Lincoln Student Laureate
- The Lincoln Academy of Illinois
- 2005
Speaking Engagements
- Learnapalooza
- How To Be a Lawyer in 45 Minutes
- 2012
Attorney endorsements
Received
(2)
Given
(3)
Copyright infringement Attorney | Aug 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I whole-heartedly endorse this lawyer. I have consulted with Billy on a number of maters, and he has always shown considerable integrity and an admirable dedication to his clients."
General practice Attorney | Feb 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Mills is a caring and creative lawyer. I highly recommend him, one of the friendliest, but fiercest attorneys in Chicago."
Avvo Contributions
This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.
William Joseph Mills
Copyright infringement Attorney
Chicago, IL
Licensed for 29 years
Free Consultation