William C. Forbes

William C. Forbes is a highly respected trial attorney with extensive experience in civil and criminal defense. With a career spanning over three decades, Mr. William has handled some of the most high-profile cases in West Virginia. Known for his straightforward approach and deep legal knowledge, he has successfully represented clients in complex litigation and major criminal defense cases.

Before attending the Ohio State University Graduate Program, Mr. William earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Morris Harvey College in Charleston, West Virginia. He later obtained his Juris Doctor from Antioch School of Law in Washington, D.C., where he tried his first jury cases as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney. His education laid the foundation for his strong litigation skills and courtroom advocacy.

Before founding Forbes Law Offices in 2001, Mr. William served as the Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney for 12 years. During his tenure, he aggressively pursued violent crime and political corruption cases, personally prosecuting complex trials, including first-degree murder convictions and the high-profile cases of former West Virginia officials. He also led the investigation into misconduct by state forensic scientist Fred Zain, exposing wrongful convictions.

Mr. William is an experienced trial attorney who has successfully represented both plaintiffs and defendants, earning substantial verdicts—including a record-setting $16 million jury award in Putnam County. He fights for justice for individuals and businesses in high-stakes legal disputes. Beyond the courtroom, Mr. William advances legal education by teaching criminal justice courses and providing nationwide training to attorneys on trial advocacy and cross-examination strategies.

Mr. William is admitted to practice in West Virginia State and Federal Courts and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. He is an active member of legal associations, including the West Virginia Association for Justice and the American Association for Justice. With a reputation for excellence in the courtroom, Mr. William remains a dedicated advocate, fighting for justice in both civil and criminal matters.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Forbes Law Offices PLLC
• Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
• Member, West Virginia State Bar Criminal Law Committee
• Member, American Association for Justice

Licensed State

• West Virginia

Education

• Antioch School of Law, Washington, D.C.
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Morris Harvey College, Charleston, W.Va.
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)
• Ohio State University
  Graduate Program

Awards & Badges