William M. "Will" Atherton
About William M. Atherton
William M. Atherton is a lawyer based in Washington, DC and has been recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America since 2023. William M. Atherton is recognized in the following practice areas:
- Washington, District of Columbia
- Financial Services Regulation Law
- Mergers and Acquisitions Law
Current Firm: Reed Smith LLP
Education: Emory University, J.D., graduated 2015
Location: Washington, DC
Nearby Lawyers
David Wonderlick focuses his practice on construction litigation and government contracts. He has represented contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, owners, developers, sureties, and public agencies on projects involving the construction of conventional and nuclear power plants, transmission lines, industrial facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, sewers, highways and bridges, dams, tunnels, professional sports stadiums, airport facilities, mass transit systems, hotels, military facili...
Vincent “Vince” McKnight, Jr., is the Managing Partner of Sanford Heisler Sharp’s Washington, D.C., office and Co-Chair of the firm’s Whistleblower Practice. He also represents clients in employment discrimination and wrongful discharge cases. Vince represents whistleblowers in sealed and unsealed False Claims Act/qui tam suits under investigation by the United States and other governmental stakeholders. He has achieved significant success in such cases, including the ...
Michael V. Nakamura is an experienced and compassionate lawyer committed to achieving justice for his clients, primarily those who have suffered devastating injuries as the result of the negligence of others. Clients often come to Mike when they are confused, intimidated or overwhelmed by the legal process, and are unsure about their rights as a victim. As a result, Mike is often hired because of his calming manner and willingness to take the time to explain the legal process. This comforting...
Thomas M. Lucas is a Shareholder and Litigation Manager in the Norfolk, Virginia office of Jackson Lewis P.C. Mr. Lucas represents management exclusively in the full range of employment and labor law matters, including employment discrimination litigation and traditional labor law. He has represented corporate clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region and nationally for more than 25 years, including clients in the maritime, ship repair, manufacturing, healthcare and service industries. Prior...
Kevin P. O’Brien is a partner in the firm’s Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice. His practice has concentrated in employee compensation and benefits for over 30 years. Kevin is widely known as a leader in a wide variety of subjects, including innovative defined benefit plan design, flexible benefits, ERISA fiduciary matters and executive compensation. Before joining the firm, Kevin worked in the Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration at the Labor Department ...
Adam S. Caldwell is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Communications Law. Adam S., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Adam S. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Brad Friend is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Construction Law and Litigation - Construction. Brad, who practices law in McLean, Virginia, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Brad is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Elyse L. Strickland is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Finance Law and Family Law. Elyse L., who practices law in Potomac, Maryland, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Elyse L. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Nancy Ory specializes in business and regulatory issues facing television and radio broadcasters , including large publicly traded broadcast companies, group owners, small radio and television licensees, and Spanish-language programmers. A former advertising agency executive and media buyer, Nancy has an inside understanding of the media business from an operational perspective. She has drafted and negotiated hundreds of employment and talent contracts, syndication and programming agreements,...
Deborah B. Baum is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Land Use and Zoning, Litigation - Real Estate and Litigation - Trusts and Estates. Deborah B., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2018. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Deborah B. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Explore and Learn
2026 Best Lawyers Awards: Recognizing Legal Talent Across the United States
by Jamilla Tabbara
The 2026 editions highlight the top 5% of U.S. attorneys, showcase emerging practice areas and reveal trends shaping the nation’s legal profession.
Gun Rights for Convicted Felons? The DOJ Says It's Time.
by Bryan Driscoll
It's more than an administrative reopening of a long-dormant issue; it's a test of how the law reconciles the right to bear arms with protecting the public.
2026 Best Lawyers Awards in Canada: Marking 20 Years of Excellence
by Jamilla Tabbara
Honoring Canada’s most respected lawyers and spotlighting the next generation shaping the future of law.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
by Bryan Driscoll
Learn the legal standards, costs and steps involved when you sue for defamation, including the difference between libel and slander.
Best Lawyers 2026: Discover the Honorees in Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa and Spain
by Jamilla Tabbara
A growing international network of recognized legal professionals.
The Family Law Loophole That Lets Sex Offenders Parent Kids
by Bryan Driscoll
Is the state's surrogacy framework putting children at risk?
Holiday Pay Explained: Federal Rules and Employer Policies
by Bryan Driscoll
Understand how paid holidays work, when employers must follow their policies and when legal guidance may be necessary.
How to Choose a Good Lawyer: Tips, Traits and Questions to Ask
by Laurie Villanueva
A Practical Guide for Your First-Time Hiring a Lawyer
Unenforceable HOA Rules: What Homeowners Can Do About Illegal HOA Actions
by Bryan Driscoll
Not every HOA rule is legal. Learn how to recognize and fight unenforceable HOA rules that overstep the law.