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 59 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Aaron | March 19, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Experienced, Trustworthy, Fantastic!

As with many things, referrals are a great place to start when looking for an attorney, and I had 3 of them from friends for Bill Bratton. Simply put, he outperformed the high praise he was given from my friends that had used him before. From day 1 Bill was straight forward and forthright, and made... it very clear he was looking out for my best interest. He presented quite thoroughly all the pertinent things that needed to be considered, and with his extensive experience could anticipate and prepare for the actions that needed to be taken to achieve what I had set forth as my objective. My divorce was NOT an easy journey, but it was only tolerable because there were virtually no surprises (because Bill saw the twists and turns coming in advance), and because he was there every step of the way. My advice is that if you're in Riverside County, and looking for an attorney that is going to be there for you every step of the way, offering advice, fighting for you, presenting the facts exactly as they exist (whether you want to hear them or not), and is going to get you the best possible outcome, Bill Bratton is the attorney for you.

Posted by Mehreen | March 14, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Best decision I made!

My very long divorce/custody court battle began in December 2016. I hired a basic attorney and she wasn't in it for me and my children. She was in it for the money. Upon reading what seemed like a million yelp reviews it seemed like most attorneys bill you for everything and take months/years to reso...lve anything...why? Because they can! I had to present myself in court once and although my brother's attorney friend helped prepare me for the task I don't think anyone can fully prepare for something like that. Judges DO like to speak to LAWYERS. If one side has an attorney no matter how valid your points are the judge WILL give the attorney more respect and time to speak. #fact My first time meeting Mr. Bratton I KNEW he was the attorney for me. He was assertive and to the point. I could tell he knew what he was saying and doing. He walked in to court like a boss and his demeanor demanded respect. I know my ex and his attorney felt intimidated by Mr. Bratton now handling my case. He looked at everything and fought for what was right. He told me what to expect and he got me out of a few very nasty situations by dealing directly with the opposing counsel. Most importantly I trusted Mr. Bratton with my custody agreement. Without saying too much let's just say he was 100% right about everything. He has dealt with so many divorce custody cases and he can smell bs from a million miles away....if it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, and walks like a duck...IT'S A DUCK! In the end Mr. Bratton wrapped up everything in less than a year of being on my case. I had the most peace of mind during the time he spent on my case. He was honest with me and he called me right away when I had a question about something. He is a good man and he is great at what he does. He is not just doing it to make money (even though he loves to travel, lol) Overall: 1. Is he expensive? YES, rightfully so. It did cost a lot...but he is qualified and you're paying for top notch service. It goes hand in hand. You want the best, be willing to pay the price. It depends on how much your case means to you. 2. What to expect- you will be billed for the emails and phone calls so be careful when you're making calls. They deduct from the retainer so make sure you really need that information. Otherwise trust who you're paying the big bucks to! 3. My experience - Mr. Bratton is my lifelong attorney if I ever need one. He and his staff are beyond helpful and friendly. Understand it's their livelihood and your life. Ideally two parents should figure out what's best for their children but when that seems impossible because one side simply wants to fight...trust that there will be a fight. Just hire the best to fight for you! Mr. Bratton knew I'd put NO price on fighting for my children; however he didn't prolong my case just to make that money. And that is what I respect him for most. He didn't take advantage of my situation just for his own benefit. If you're serious about hiring someone good then go hire him! Trust me....YOU WILL be happy when you do! Your peace of mind is more important than a few thousand dollars...remember his boss status in court will probably end up saving you in the long run...if you hire some random attorney not only will he/she not be known in the courts but you'll end up paying so much more in the long run! It's a win win if you hire Mr. Bratton! Thank you Mr. Bratton for all that you did for me and my children. God bless you!

Posted by S | October 11, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Hire the attorney respected by clients, judges, attorneys

The last thing I ever hoped to do was hire a family law attorney to handle my own divorce. However, when I needed to hire an attorney, I knew exactly who to call. The reason I knew who to call is because I am a fellow attorney in the local legal community. Watching Bill Bratton handle my divorce m...ade me understand exactly why everyone told me that he is so highly regarded by other attorneys and judges. First, Mr. Bratton brings the utmost candor to court. What this means is that, in a close situation, the judge will know that Mr. Bratton has ensured to the best of his ability that the facts he's presenting are accurate. Judges are very busy, and appreciate knowing that they can trust Mr. Bratton. Indeed, Mr. Bratton's signature on your legal pleadings will tell the court and the opposing party that there is a solid legal and factual foundation for the relief being requested. When you hire Mr. Bratton, you are hiring someone who has earned his reputation over decades of practice. Second, I found Mr. Bratton to be very realistic in his expectations to a client like me. As a party to a divorce, there are parts of the law that may have presumptions that I don't like or procedural mechanisms that I think are unfair in my case. While Mr. Bratton may share his sympathy, he never filled me with unrealistic expectations. Third, Mr. Bratton keeps a cordial relationship with what seems like almost every attorney in the Inland family law community. This comes very easily to him based on his outgoing and respectful personality. What this means to me as a client is that the billings on his invoices will be reasonably incurred, rather than being the product of unfortunate personality clashes between attorneys paid for by the clients. Finally, Mr. Bratton has a very sharp memory, recalling even the most minute facts about my case. There will be no question that you are not just a number or retainer check to a skilled legal practitioner who enjoys the practice of law like Mr. Bratton. Well I wish I never had to hire a family law attorney, I'm glad I didn't make a bad situation worse by hiring the wrong attorney. As an attorney myself, I know the importance of hiring someone who knows both the law and the judge.

Posted by Ivan | October 09, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Family

Experience and integrity counts

I found attorney Bill Bratton by reading reviews and researching as best I could family law attorneys in the Riverside county area. I am very pleased to have selected Mr. Bratton as my attorney. I previously had two prior (expensive) attorneys that didn't seem to care about my ultimate outcome and ...ran up expenses by requesting needless paperwork that I thought was necessary at the time, but in the end was worthless. I wish I had found the offices of Bratton, Razo & Lord earlier. I found Mr. Bratton to be honest, a man of great integrity, and someone who gives solid advice. He genuinely cares about his clients and is someone I came to have great respect for. If you are looking for a solid attorney, who can negotiate a favorable settlement for you, look no further. My ex had hired a top attorney that my previous attorneys failed to match. Mr. Bratton had the necessary skills to handle my case and the opposing counsel, and is well familiar with the court system in Riverside county. I am happy with the settlement reached and, in the time-frame, completed. If you are looking for a family law attorney, you owe it to yourself to have an initial consultation and see for yourself. Going through a divorce is not easy and is not just a matter of processing forms. Selection of your attorney is critical to the outcome and I have no hesitation in giving Mr. Bratton the highest rating. Good luck.

Posted by Jackie | October 01, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Excellent Strategist and Negotiator

Bill Bratton was the perfect choice to represent me in my divorce. He was patient and thorough in explaining difficult and detailed legal processes. I never felt pressured by Bill and I felt as though he was my advocate. He was very good in setting the strategy and in negotiating with the other at...torneys. Bill got a very good result for me. He is an excellent attorney and has become a good friend. I highly recommend him.

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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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