William Paul Bratton

PRO

William Paul Bratton

5.0
150 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 31 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Riverside, CA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Mediation ... +2 more

4046 Chestnut Street, Riverside, CA

About William

Biography

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 40%

Divorce, Legal Separation, Child Custody, Child Support, Spousal Support, Property Division, and Domestic Violence.

32 years

40%
Family 30%

32 years

30%
Mediation 15%

32 years

15%
Alimony 10%

32 years

10%
Guardianship 5%

32 years

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Hourly Rates

$ 495-650 per hour


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2023
...
+ 9
Distinguished Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in California for 31 years

State: California

Acquired: 1994

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Bratton Razo & Lord

4046 Chestnut Street, Riverside, CA, 92501-3537

BrattonFamilyLaw.com

William Paul Bratton's Reviews

Showing 26 - 30 of 36 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by Eric K. | September 13, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

A true co-parenting attorney who will look out for you and your child's best interest

I hired Mr. Bratton (Bill) in June 2015 to represent me in a very contentious separation/divorce that involved multiple variables stemming from asset distribution, business separation negotiation, retirement division, stipulation orders and the most important of all, child and custody agreements with... arrangements. Bill continues to be my attorney today as we explore and sometimes have to fight multiple areas of conflict between my former spouse and I. Although I admit to not being the easiest client to work with, Bill does an excellent job of talking me down from my emotional, subjective approach to issues and giving me his un-biased, objective, co-parenting approach that puts my daughter first and what will potentially be the recommendation of the court. His advice in these matters has no doubt saved me thousands in court costs as well as lawyer fees. His experience with the Family Court System based on the issues that I have brought to his attention has been spot-on. Bill is very direct and upfront with regards to behaviors with a former spouse and actions of a co-parent. Bill truly believes that the child(ren) should be the priority and will aggressively fight for the fair and equitable timeshare you deserve. Bill and his office team of professionals has been very receptive to my case. They have always answered and returned phone calls in a timely manner, exercising the highest degree of customer service. His office staff answer all questions without judgement, sometimes last minute. Bill is an extremely FAIR biller. Charges are rendered for professional services provided but not overly billed for frivolous things. Bill does not do contempt cases against your former spouse for multiple reasons and shares his beliefs why; mainly as it’s not good for the co-parents, which I can respect. Bill is an excellent choice for a co-parenting attorney who will put the needs of you and your child first. If you are looking for an attorney that will aggressively fight for you and your child(ren) then consider Bill Bratton’s Office. I don’t look forward to the long road ahead I have with my former spouse but I take peace of mind knowing that I have the expertise of Bill Bratton and his office to lead the way when my child and I need them the most.

Posted by Jason | September 13, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Family

Mr. Bratton is the best choice for you and your family

Mr. Bratton (Bill) is my second Family Law Lawyer in what has been a draining nigthmarish 8 year process. I truly cannot say enough about Mr. Bratton and how he has helped our family out with the children's best interest always at the forefront. Mr. Bratton's experience, and familiarity with the ju...dges and the process was something that benefited us greatly, Mr. Bratton knew what to expect going in, developed a strateg based on that knowledge, and delivered on everything based on the strategy we followed as a family. Mr. Bratton tells it like it is to the parents, sometimes, it is a tough pill to swallow, but as I mentioned earlier, it is what is best for the kids, and at the end of the day, that's what is important. Mr. Bratton also has relationships with many of the mediators and 3111 personnel. This was esepcailly helpful as I was extremely nervous going into both, and they both ended up going our way, thanks in large part to the preperation Mr. Bratton was able to direct. Lastly, Mr. Bratton is an excellent negotiator if the opportunity presents itself. My ex-wife and I were at a bit of a stalemate when it comes to custody of my two kids, but Mr. Bratton was able to negotiate a solution that worked out best for the kids, and also happened to be exactly what I was looking for as a father. You will not find a more competent and compassionate attorney who truly cares about his job anywhere. I would reccomend Mr. Bratton and will keep him on as my Council should we need to go back to court for further modifications to the order. Good luck to anyone reading this!

Posted by Michael | July 23, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Saved What Was Left of My World

Mr. Bratton treated me with respect and dignity. He listened attentively. He made an accurate assessment of just what he could and could not do for me in the REAL legal world. When integrity and professionalism actually count for something, William Bratton is the man you want on your side. Over t...he years I have personally watched men getting mauled by the legal system. It has not been a pretty sight. Mr. Bratton prevented that kind of nonsense from happening to me. I owe him a lot more than just the fees. But those are debts that can never be paid. And I am proud to call him a friend of mine. I would recommend him to any man or woman facing the abyss of divorce.

Posted by Somer | July 21, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Excellent Attorney

I can not say enough good things about Attorney Bratton. I highly recommend him to EVERYONE I know. I used his services when I was going through my divorce six years ago as he came highly recommended to me. Attorney Bratton treats all of his clients as if they were family. I recently had a situation ...where a Bifurcation was signed so that I could re-marry. I had a date set for the Marriage Ceremony. The court was taking some time in recording the document I needed to retrieve my marriage certificate. Attorney Bratton and his staff went above and beyond, contacted the court and had my certified court copy, I was able to retrieve my marriage certificate and was married as planned. Attorney Bratton and his staff truly care about their clients. The office is very well organized, Attorney Bratton is very knowledgeable and made my divorce a smooth process, with as little stress as possible. Attorney Bratton strives to help his clients and gets the job done thoroughly. If I could rate his services 1 out 10, 10 being the highest, I give him an 11.

Posted by Samantha | June 29, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Family

The Piece of mind is priceless

Bill and his team were amazing during my time with them as a client in family law court. My case has been ongoing and arduous for six long years, two attorneys, 13 continuances and endless court dates. When Bill came on board to assist me, he was firm but fair, friendly but not friends, and always, h...is utmost professional self. He was honest and direct with me, always keeping my child at the forefront of why we were returning to family law court time and time again. The staff was always pleasant, knew me as well as my case by name if I called with questions and very extremely organized. I have had other representation, where my case was just a number, and I was billed for other clients minutes, an error on the staff's account. Bill guided me with realistic expectations and walked through the tenuous and particular difficult logistics of my case with ease and confidence, that in turn put my mind at ease (as much as possible in these instances). I was referred to Bill by another professional in the field, and two layers later in a tense, high conflict custody situation, I was able to breathe easy (ier) knowing that Bill did care about what was best for my child. In my initial consultation, he was very up front and honest about the expectations of the case, based on the history, and where we could expect to end up. Along the way he always encouraged me to try and find resolution with my ex husband any chance possible, because that is what is best for our child. Bill and his team were always available to answer my questions, and even when Bill took a vacation, his partner counsel answered my call, familiarized himself with the case and stepped in for advice and counsel. I cannot begin to say enough about this team, because I have paid money to be poorly represented and now understand what good representation looks like. The Bratton Firm on every level represented client compassion, while remaining realistic, honest and gave expectations that could be counted on. There was no grand standing, just confidence in knowing the ins and outs of my personal case, understanding the law and representing me in a professional manner. I cannot say thank you enough, and hopefully will not need to, but will go back to Bill and his team, should the need arise.

See All Client Reviews

William Paul Bratton's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse William
Andrew Lee Westover headshot
Andrew Westover

Family lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Bill is a total professional and, certainly, a worthy opponent. He fights hard, is fair, and honest."

Paul Anthony Eads headshot
Paul Eads

Divorce and separation lawyer | Dec 10

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have had prior cases with Mr. Bratton and he is very knowledgeable and assertive in advocating for his client. A worthy adversary indeed."

Heidi Helena Romeo headshot
Heidi Romeo

Divorce and separation lawyer | Oct 08

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Bratton is truly the consummate professional. He is a highly experienced litigator. He seeks to explore settlement opportunities before engaging in litigation. He is respected by his peers and judicial officers."

Nakesha Steffler Dodson Ruegg headshot
Nakesha Ruegg

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher Robert Abernathy headshot
Christopher Abernathy

Family lawyer | Apr 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse Bill Bratton. Bill is an exceptional attorney. He is well versed in the law and has an outstanding presence in the courtroom. Moreover, Bill is well respected by his colleagues and the local bench."

Vincent Barney Garcia headshot
Vincent Garcia

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"An exceptional attorney who zealously represents his clients. I've had the good fortune of knowing William for over 25 years both personally and professionally. He is trustworthy and a thoughtful person. He has the reputation for thoughtful and honest interaction with everyone. I endorse this lawyer without reservation."

Keith Eric Dolnick headshot
Keith Dolnick

Family lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kristen Ashleigh Holstrom headshot
Kristen Holstrom

Family lawyer | Dec 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Bill is an asset to out legal community."

Michael Robert Young headshot
Michael Young

Family lawyer | Dec 11

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. He works hard and is aggressive in representing his clients. He works diligently to resolve cases in a timely matter and achieve good results for his clients."

Richard Allen Kennedy headshot
Richard Kennedy

Family lawyer | Nov 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Bill is a great attorney who places his client's interests at the forefront of his cases. Would not hesitate to select him as counsel."

Kirby Frederick Combs headshot
Kirby Combs

Family lawyer | Nov 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Harold William Edgar headshot
Harold Edgar

Family lawyer | Nov 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Bratton is one of the my experienced and professional lawyers in the area. I would highly recommended him."

Catherine Ann Schwartz headshot
Catherine Schwartz

Family lawyer | Nov 07

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Shauna Marie Albright headshot
Shauna Albright

Divorce and separation lawyer | Nov 07

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse William Bratton. He is highly knowledgeable, is an excellent advocate on behalf of his clients and has an impeccable reputation."

Sanjay Sobti headshot
Sanjay Sobti

Divorce and separation lawyer | Nov 06

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Gerald Anthony Maggio headshot
Gerald Maggio

Divorce and separation lawyer | Nov 06

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Bill Bratton is a consummate professional, very prepared, and a strong advocate for the clients that he has represented in cases where he has been my opposing counsel, and also someone who is able to work with counsel to reach a negotiated resolution of cases where such settlement is in the best interests of the parties."

Donald Bradley Cripe headshot
Donald Cripe

Family lawyer | Nov 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Bill is an outstanding attorney. As a former Accountant, he brings with him special skills that can serve family law clients very well. Additionally, Bill is a real gentleman to work with. I recommend Bill highly."

Jeffrey Robert Sissung headshot
Jeffrey Sissung

Family lawyer | Jan 30

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

James D. Madden headshot
James Madden

Family lawyer | Apr 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. William Bratton epiomizes the pinnacle of the legal community in his knowledge, professionalism and ethics. I would absolutely recommend him for any type of family law litigation regardless of the complexity."

Gary Philip DuFour headshot
Gary DuFour

Family lawyer | Oct 17

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"A consumate professional and a pleasure to work with. Highly recommended."

View All Endorsements
Michael Anthony Razo headshot
Michael Razo

Family lawyer

Linda J Claypool headshot
Linda Claypool

Family lawyer

Andrew Lee Westover headshot
Andrew Westover

Family lawyer

Paul Anthony Eads headshot
Paul Eads

Family lawyer

Gary Philip DuFour headshot
Gary DuFour

Family lawyer

Keith Eric Dolnick headshot
Keith Dolnick

Family lawyer

Chad William Firetag headshot
Chad Firetag

Criminal defense lawyer

Kenneth B. Stream Jr headshot
Kenneth Stream

Estate planning lawyer

Sean Stuart Varner headshot
Sean Varner

Mergers and acquisitions lawyer

Vincent Barney Garcia headshot
Vincent Garcia

Family lawyer

Lawrence Roy Bynum headshot
Lawrence Bynum

Real estate lawyer

Joseph Wallace Howington headshot
Joseph Howington

Family lawyer

Catherine Ann Schwartz headshot
Catherine Schwartz

Criminal defense lawyer

Linda D Roberts-Ross headshot
Linda Roberts-Ross

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Kirby Frederick Combs headshot
Kirby Combs

Criminal defense lawyer

Donald Bradley Cripe headshot
Donald Cripe

Mediation lawyer

Laura Chanel Rosauer headshot
Laura Rosauer

Family lawyer

Harold William Edgar headshot
Harold Edgar

Family lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Attorney of the Year - Riverside County, Tri-Bar Association

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Distinguished, Martindale-Hubbell

2018

Distinguished, Martindale-Hubbell

2017

Distinguished rating, Martindale-Hubbell

1999

Recognition of Service, Riverside County Superior Court

1997

Recognition of Service, Riverside County Superior Court

Work Experience

1994 - Present

Senior Partner, Bratton & Razo

1986 - 1994

Vice President of Operations, Bratton Enterprises

1983 - 1985

District Sales Manager, Fleetwood Enterprises

Associations

2016 - Present

San Bernardino Bar Association

2008 - Present

Collaborative Divorce Professionals of Inland Empire

Member

2008 - Present

International Academy of Collaborative Professionals

Member

2006 - Present

State Bar of California, Family Law Section

Member

1994 - Present

State Bar Of California

Member

1994 - Present

Riverside County Bar Association

Member

1994 - Present

Riverside County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

2011 - 2011

Riverside Superior Court

Elkins Task Force

1996 - 2012

Riverside County Superior Court

Pro bono attorney for children

Sample of Legal Cases

Smith V. Jones

Move Away Denied

See More Legal Cases

Education

1994

Western State University College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1982

Univ of California Riverside

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2015

Riverside County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Ethics In Family Law

Languages

English

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