William M. Bankston

William M. Bankston is a senior attorney at Manley Brautigam Bankston P.C., recognized by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers in America, and Martindale-Hubbell for his outstanding contributions to litigation and dispute resolution. With over 50 years of experience, he focuses on securities law, construction litigation, arbitration, and complex commercial matters.

William earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas Law School in 1971 and received dual B.A./B.S. degrees from Texas Technological College in 1968. He is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, multiple federal courts, and both the Alaska and Texas Bar Associations.

Throughout his career, William has served as an arbitrator and expert witness, providing legal insight in both litigation and alternative dispute resolution. He is an active member of the American Board of Trial Advocates and serves on multiple arbitration and mediation panels, including those of the Alaska Bar Association and the American Arbitration Association.

Beyond his legal practice, William is a committed community leader and philanthropist. He founded both the Alaska Community Foundation and the Alaska Festival Theater and has taught Business Law at the collegiate level. His work with the Anchorage Youth Court and the Cook Inlet Soccer Club underscores his long-standing dedication to youth empowerment, education, and community development in Alaska.

William M. Bankston has been lead counsel in numerous published cases, including Greisen v. U.S., Moody v. Royal Wolf Lodge, and PLC LLC v. State of Alaska. His approach is defined by strategic thinking, legal precision, and a strong commitment to his clients’ success. At Manley Brautigam Bankston P.C., he continues to deliver high-quality representation shaped by decades of trusted legal service.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Manley Brautigam Bankston P.C.
• Member, American Arbitration Association
• Member, American Board of Trial Advocates, Alaska Chapter
• Past President, American Board of Trial Advocates, Alaska Chapter
• Past Secretary/Treasurer, American Board of Trial Advocates, Alaska Chapter
• Member, Fee Arbitration Panel and Disciplinary Panel of the Alaska Bar Association
• Member, Arbitration Panel
• Member, Mediation Panel

Licensed State

• Alaska

Education

• University of Texas Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Texas Technological College
  Bachelor of Science (BS)
• Texas Technological College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges