David J. Williams

David J. Williams is an attorney at Gravel & Shea PC in Burlington, Vermont. His practice includes criminal defense, complex civil litigation, personal injury, and wrongful death matters. He represents clients in state and federal proceedings and has handled hundreds of criminal and civil cases. His criminal defense work focuses on protecting freedom and constitutional rights while responding to the specific allegations and evidence in each case.

David earned a J.D. from Cornell University in 1984, a Ph.D. from the University of New Hampshire in 1981, and a B.A. from Marquette University in 1974. He began practicing law in 1985. Academic research and legal training support the evaluation of complex questions, while courtroom work requires applying that analysis to facts, procedure, and the legal standards governing a dispute.

David began his legal career in the criminal appeals bureau of the New York Legal Society. He later worked for Vermont’s Office of the Defender General before entering private practice in 1991. His appellate work includes arguments before the Vermont Supreme Court, New York Court of Appeals, and Second Circuit. Trial and appellate proceedings demand different forms of preparation, but both depend on a clear understanding of the record.

David J. Williams joined Gravel & Shea in January 2023 and is a member of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. He is admitted in Vermont and New York, with additional federal court admissions. His practice combines criminal advocacy with representation in serious civil disputes. He helps clients address litigation affecting their rights and interests through experience developed across both trial proceedings and appellate review.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Gravel & Shea PC
• Member, Vermont Bar Association
• Member, New York State Bar Association
• Member, International Academy of Trial Lawyers

Licensed State

• Vermont
• New York

Education

• Cornell University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of New Hampshire
  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Marquette University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges