William “Bill” Pate, founding member of the firm, has built a distinguished law practice defending public agencies in complex litigation, high-stakes trials, and precedent-setting appellate decisions. Continuing his family’s legacy of legal service, he focuses on defending municipalities, special districts, schools and community colleges, and other public bodies across California.

Mr. Pate’s practice covers a wide spectrum, ranging from dangerous condition and wrongful death cases, assault, civil rights, harassment and discrimination matters  He is also well-versed in land use, environmental, insurance, false claims, and public works disputes. He has tried more than twenty cases before juries, judges, and arbitrators, and prevailed in multiple appellate decisions, including the California Supreme Court.

In addition to his courtroom advocacy, Mr. Pate represents public agencies in employment disputes, property claims and constitutional challenges, often through writs of mandate and administrative proceedings.  He advises on public works projects, public-private partnerships, and renewable energy initiatives, and has served as special counsel on large-scale public bond and capital improvement programs, including two of the largest projects in the history of Los Angeles County.

Mr. Pate’s experience extends to guiding clients through complex infrastructure, land use, and environmental matters, as well as resolving disputes involving contractor defaults, surety claims, construction delays, and design defects. This blend of litigation skill and courtroom insight allows Bill to deliver unique and strategic counsel on the significant issues facing public entities today.