Bill-Thomas Education
B.S., 1976, Atlantic Christian College; J.D., 1979, North Carolina Central University School of Law (with honors; Articles Editor, Law Review).
William J. Thomas II 
I-Best Lawyers
Bill Thomas has practiced law in Durham County since 1979 and has extensive experience litigating serious criminal cases in federal and state courts. For over 40 years he has served as a zealous advocate for the rights of individuals accused of a crime.
Areas of Practice
Honors and Awards
Bill has been voted by his peers as one of “The Best Lawyers in America,” which is considered to be a singular honor conferred on a lawyer by his peers. Additionally, his recognitions include membership in the National Trial Lawyers, Top 100 Lawyers; a “Best Lawyer in North Carolina” by NC Magazine; a Member, National Top One Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel; “Top Lawyers in Corporate America” in Corporate Counsel Magazine in Criminal Defense. He is also a member of one of the most prestigious groups of trial lawyers in the country, the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Bill was honored by North Carolina Super Lawyers Magazine®. Only 5% of the state’s lawyers are named by Super Lawyers®. Bill has an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest peer rating available for legal skill and ethics. Bill has also been a guest commentator on many local and national television programs including CBS Morning News, ABC Good Morning America, CNN News, CNN, and Court TV.
In 2022, Bill was chosen and recognized in the 29th edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for his high caliber work in Criminal Defense: General Practice.
For more than 40 years, Best Lawyers has been regarded—by both the profession and the public—as the most credible measure of legal integrity and distinction in the United States. As such, recognition by Best Lawyers symbolizes excellence in practice.
Inclusion in Best Lawyers is based on a rigorous peer-review survey comprising more than 12.2 million confidential evaluations by top attorneys. Our founding principle remains unchanged since 1981 and forms the basis of our transparent methodology: the best lawyers know who the best lawyers are.
In 2022, Bill was chosen and recognized in the 29th edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for his high caliber work in Criminal Defense: General Practice.
For more than 40 years, Best Lawyers has been regarded—by both the profession and the public—as the most credible measure of legal integrity and distinction in the United States. As such, recognition by Best Lawyers symbolizes excellence in practice.
Inclusion in Best Lawyers is based on a rigorous peer-review survey comprising more than 12.2 million confidential evaluations by top attorneys. Our founding principle remains unchanged since 1981 and forms the basis of our transparent methodology: the best lawyers know who the best lawyers are.
Professional Activities
Bill is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the North Carolina Advocates for Justice. He is admitted to practice in the courts of the State of North Carolina, the United States District Court for the Middle and Eastern Districts of North Carolina, the Fourth Circuit United States Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court.
Bill is a past president of the Durham County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and a past member of the Board of Visitors of the North Carolina Central University School of Law. He has been asked to speak at legal education seminars training other criminal defense attorneys.
Bill is a past president of the Durham County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and a past member of the Board of Visitors of the North Carolina Central University School of Law. He has been asked to speak at legal education seminars training other criminal defense attorneys.
Extensive Experience
With over 40 years practicing law in Durham County and a focus on serious criminal cases in federal and state courts, Bill brings a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring adept handling of complex legal matters.
Recognized Excellence
Bill has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including being voted one of "The Best Lawyers in America," showcasing his consistent dedication to excellence in criminal defense and his esteemed reputation among peers.
Exceptional Trial Skills
Bill's extensive courtroom experience, strategic acumen, and commitment to thorough preparation make him an outstanding trial lawyer. His ability to articulate arguments persuasively and think quickly on his feet ensures his clients receive vigorous representation in the courtroom.
Track Record of Success
Bill is known throughout the state as someone who puts his clients first and achieved remarkable results in court.
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