About
William P. Lightfoot is a senior trial attorney at Lightfoot Law PLLC in Washington, DC, with nearly four decades of courtroom experience. He has litigated high-stakes personal injury cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death, recovering millions for clients. His advocacy spans negotiations, trials, arbitrations, and mediations.
William earned his law degree from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law after completing undergraduate studies at Howard University. He has been licensed to practice in Washington, DC, since 1980 and combines deep legal knowledge with a command of medical-related injury law to pursue justice for his clients.
William is a leading personal injury attorney for victims of brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, and other catastrophic harm, helping shape both case law and public safety standards. His landmark lawsuits have driven reforms in plumbing safety, medical protocols, and product manufacturer liability. His commitment to injury prevention has also been recognized by Safe Kids for advancing child burn safety.
William has received honors including Trial Lawyer of the Year from the D.C. Trial Lawyers Association and top rankings from Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, and AVVO. A respected educator, he regularly teaches litigation techniques to attorneys nationwide and is a recipient of the American Association for Justice’s highest award for legal education.
William P. Lightfoot also contributes to public service through his role on the D.C. Judicial Tenure and Disabilities Commission. A former two-term DC Councilmember At-Large, he has played a key role in local leadership and legal oversight. He maintains active involvement in several legal associations and mentoring networks.
With a practice rooted in client advocacy, legal reform, and strategic trial work, William continues to be a leading force in personal injury litigation. His dedication to impactful results and safer communities underscores his reputation as one of the region’s most accomplished trial attorneys.
Law Office Affiliations
- Senior Trial Attorney, Lightfoot Law, PLLC
- Member, American Association of Justice
- Member, American Bar Association
- Member, Washington Bar Association
- Member, D.C. Trial Lawyers Association
- Member, American College of Trial Lawyers
- Member, American Law Institute
Licensed State
- Washington, DC
Education
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Howard University
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges

- Car Accidents
- Medical Malpractice
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect
- Slip & Fall Accidents
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Trucking Accidents
- Wrongful Death
- Workers' Compensation





