Dec 23, 2021

Christ, Listed in The Daily Record’s Power 20 Litigation 2021

team-member
Featuring: William D. Christ

The Daily Record’s Power 20 Litigation 2021

Presenting the Power 20 Litigation list:

We are continuing to build on our Power List program with our next practice-specific list: our Power 20 Litigation list.

This list includes lawyers who have spent much of their career working as litigators.

The people on this list help their clients resolve complex legal matters that often have dire consequences for their financial well-being, whether the client is a business or an individual. These attorneys have also advocated for their clients during a time of unprecedented disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They have had to navigate new rules from federal and state government and the court system and have had to embrace new ways of practicing law.

As with our previous lists, the Power 20 Litigation list is presented in alphabetical order. And again, rather than tell you about all of these power players’ accomplishments and accolades, we decided to give them a chance to tell you more about themselves through their answers to a few different questions.


William D. Christ

Partner and Litigation Practice Group Leader, Phillips Lytle LLP
Years in current role: 29 (4 as Litigation Practice Group Leader)

What do you enjoy most about being a litigator?

The opportunity to support and interact with our clients, the judiciary and practicing bar. I also appreciate the opportunity to help clients achieve their success.

What do you consider your biggest success in navigating the litigation process during the pandemic?

Managing the transition of more than 60 attorneys, paralegals and staff in the Litigation Practice Group, working with clients and colleagues to ensure the flow of work to our teams and creating opportunities for client development throughout.

What do you see as the biggest changes in the legal industry in the next 3-5 years?

We have already seen significant technological change brought on by the pandemic, including remote depositions, court appearances, mediations and even trials. We also will continue to see cost savings for clients because of reduced need for travel. Innovation and AI will drive greater efficiencies in the practice, and allow more opportunities to harness talent remotely from around the country.

What community organizations do you support as a volunteer and why?

United Way and Catholic Charities – These charities have a significant impact on our community.

National Federation for Just Communities of Western New York Inc. – Organization dedicated to overcoming bias and bigotry by building a just and inclusive community.

Suneel’s Light Foundation – Raises funds to fuel research for treatments and a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. It is a lethal genetic childhood disease.