William Connolly
General Counsel & Chief Legal Officer
Introduction
My focus
I have practiced law in both firm and corporate settings for more than 25 years, from small private companies to leading global institutions. I help my clients to navigate business and legal challenges of almost every sort.
My role as General Counsel at Nixon Peabody is to support the continued growth and success of the firm and contribute to a culture of professional excellence that places our clients at the center of everything we do. Like any large organization, our work involves inherent risks, both for ourselves and for our clients. My job to understand those risks and to help my colleagues to make the best decisions for their clients. Our clients’ success is our success.
Looking ahead
Emerging technologies like generative AI are potential game-changers for the legal profession. Successful firms will harness the power of these tools while also observing the highest professional and ethical requirements.
/Insights
Presentations
- Moderator, “Corporate Transparency Act: What You Need to Know,” Nixon Peabody California MCLE Virtual Seminar, January 2024
In the news
- The American Lawyer
Law firm GCs: From part-time advisers to full-time ‘risk avoidance monitors’
Oct 12, 2023General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer Bill Connolly is quoted in this article discussing the evolving role of the Office of General Counsel. Bill explains that having a full-time GC can help law firms better manage and mitigate risk and help attorneys to find the best solutions for their clients.
- Law360
Hub Hires
Oct 2, 2023This roundup of notable legal industry moves in the Boston region includes the NP arrivals of General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer Bill Connolly and Affordable Housing & Real Estate partner Kristen Fallon. Kristen is quoted in this article along with Managing Partner and CEO Steve Zubiago.
- Politico
Massachusetts playbook
Sep 22, 2023Articles highlighting General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer Bill Connolly’s arrival to NP.
- Law360
Ex-State Street attorney rejoins Nixon Peabody as legal chief
Sep 21, 2023Article highlighting General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer Bill Connolly’s arrival to NP.
- Bloomberg Law
Nixon Peabody appoints William Connolly to Chief Legal Officer
Sep 21, 2023Article highlighting General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer Bill Connolly’s arrival to NP.
Education
Boston University School of Law, J.D.
Amherst College, B.A.
Professional activities
- Greater Boston Legal Services, Board of Directors (President, 2019–2023)