About
William J. Birkel is a highly accomplished trial attorney with over 30 years of litigation experience in Nebraska and Iowa. He has successfully defended individuals, corporations, medical professionals, insurance brokers, and carriers in complex litigation matters. His expertise spans personal injury, property and casualty claims, construction defects, workers’ compensation, and professional negligence, making him a trusted advocate for his clients.
Bill earned his Juris Doctor from Creighton University School of Law in 1990 after completing his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1987. He is admitted to practice in Nebraska and Iowa, the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. His extensive courtroom experience includes trial work in both jurisdictions and appellate advocacy before the Nebraska Court of Appeals and Supreme Court.
Recognized for his excellence, William J. Birkel has been listed as one of Great Plains Super Lawyers for six years and one of America’s best lawyers for seven consecutive years. He has held leadership positions within the legal community, including serving as President of the Omaha Bar Association and representing the Nebraska State Bar Association’s House of Delegates for eight years. His deep insurance litigation and dispute resolution knowledge has made him a sought-after attorney.
Beyond his legal practice, William J. Birke is committed to community service. Since 2019, he has been a member of the Board of Directors for the Stephen Center, a nonprofit organization, and serves as its Executive Council Secretary. His dedication to his clients and the community underscores his reputation as a skilled and principled advocate.
Law Office Affiliations
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Attorney, McGrath North Mullin & Kratz, PC LLO - President, Omaha Bar Association
- Member, Nebraska State Bar Association’s House of Delegates for eight years
Licensed State
- Nebraska
- Iowa
Education
- University of Nebraska College of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Bachelor of Science (BS) - University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges


- Arbitration
- Construction and development
- Insurance
- Litigation
- Workers compensation