Washington (June 17, 2008) – Sutherland Partner William R. (Billy) Martin has been named to Ebony magazine's Power 150, and the National Law Journal's 50 Most Influential Minority Lawyers. In the Ebony ranking, Mr. Martin was one of only three lawyers in private practice named in the Politics and Law section. The National Law Journal list includes lawyers in private practice and government, law professors and in-house counsel; judges and non-practicing lawyers were not included.
Mr. Martin, who heads Sutherland's White Collar Criminal Defense practice, was recognized by each national publication as a skilled litigator who has the ability to turn the tide of momentum in state and federal court, and in the court of public opinion toward his client's favor.
"Billy impresses judges with his profound knowledge of the intricacies of the law, while breaking it down in plain English for jurors and reporters,” said Sutherland Managing Partner Mark D. Wasserman. “This rare gift is what separates him from the pack.”
Mr. Martin’s list of clients includes NFL quarterback Michael Vick, who he represented in a federal dog-fighting case and is defending against those same charges in a Virginia case; Idaho Sen. Larry Craig, in the recent case involving allegations of misconduct; former NBA star Jayson Williams, who was acquitted on the most serious charges against him, aggravated manslaughter, in the shooting of his chauffeur; former Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell, who was acquitted on charges of racketeering and bribery; current NBA star Allen Iverson; former world heavyweight champion Riddick Bowe; the parents of murdered federal government intern Chandra Levy; and former White House intern Monica Lewinsky and her mother, Marcia Lewis.
“We asked our readers to nominate candidates who have had a national impact in their legal fields and beyond during the last five years,” said NLJ Associate Editor Michael Moline. “We wanted to identify attorneys who have demonstrated the power to change the law, shape public affairs, launch industries and get big things done.”
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