With over 30 years of experience in white-collar criminal defense, corporate investigations, and financial regulation, William Barry is a highly respected figure in the legal industry. As Chair of Miller & Chevalier’s Litigation department, he has built a reputation as a trusted advisor, guiding multinational companies, hedge funds, boards of directors, and senior executives through intricate compliance and enforcement matters. His deep expertise spans cross-border investigations, government enforcement actions, and high-stakes litigation, making him a go-to resource for corporations navigating complex regulatory landscapes.

William’s career has been defined by his ability to anticipate client needs and provide strategic solutions that balance legal obligations with business realities. His leadership in navigating multi-jurisdictional investigations has earned him recognition from top legal directories, including Chambers Global, Chambers USA, Benchmark Litigation, and The Legal 500. Client feedback in Chambers USA underscores his tenacity and creativity, with one remarking that he is “the kind of person that everyone in the boardroom listens to,” a testament to his ability to inspire confidence and drive results in critical moments.

Throughout his career, William has represented clients in high-profile cases involving the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), financial fraud, money laundering, and economic sanctions violations. His notable successes include securing declinations from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in corruption investigations for clients in the oil and gas, telecommunications, and food processing industries. His experience with parallel proceedings, involving both internal reviews and government investigations, allows him to deliver coordinated strategies that minimize risk while maintaining business continuity.

William’s extensive international experience includes advising U.S. companies trading abroad and international companies engaged with the U.S. He has handled matters across Latin America, Europe, and Asia, guiding clients through the intricacies of foreign regulatory environments. His deep understanding of cross-border compliance and enforcement has made him a key figure in global legal circles, as reflected by his involvement with the ABA International Anti-Corruption Committee and the ABA Anti-Money Laundering Committee.

In addition to his client work, William has been a prolific contributor to legal thought leadership. His publications on anti-corruption, AML, and securities enforcement are widely cited, and his speaking engagements at prominent international forums, such as the ACI FCPA Conference and Economic Crime Prevention Switzerland, solidify his role as a thought leader. He also holds the designation of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist from ACAMS, further underscoring his expertise in financial crime compliance.

William’s commitment to civil rights and youth development is evident in his community involvement. He serves as a board member of the Washington Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs, advocating for underrepresented communities. Additionally, he has spent over 25 years coaching youth sports, most recently with the Olney Boys & Girls Club, where he continues to make a positive impact on young athletes.

Educationally, William holds a JD from The George Washington University Law School and a BA in English Literature and Government from Wesleyan University. At Wesleyan, he demonstrated early leadership as Captain of the Varsity Football Team and was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon and the Skull & Serpent Society. His academic background has equipped him with critical thinking and analytical skills that serve as the foundation for his legal practice.

In every role, whether advising a Fortune 500 board of directors or coaching a youth sports team, William Barry embodies integrity, leadership, and a dedication to helping others succeed. His diverse experience and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset to his clients, colleagues, and community.

Character:

William Barry is known for his integrity, calm demeanor, and unwavering dedication to his clients’ success. His ability to lead under pressure and make sound decisions has earned him the trust of clients, peers, and regulators alike.

Knowledge:

With over 30 years of experience in white-collar defense, financial regulation, and cross-border investigations, William has an unparalleled understanding of complex legal frameworks. His expertise spans multiple industries and international jurisdictions, making him a highly sought-after advisor.

Strategic:

William excels at crafting innovative legal strategies that align with business objectives while navigating regulatory challenges. His approach ensures that clients can resolve crises efficiently and return to focusing on their core operations.

Communication:

Known for his clear and direct communication, William distills complex legal issues into understandable, actionable advice. His ability to engage effectively with clients, boards, and regulators makes him a trusted voice in high-stakes matters.