William D. Johnston – Wilmington, DE

William D. Johnston: A Pillar of Delaware Corporate Law

Decades of Leadership and Litigation Excellence

William D. Johnston is a Partner at Young Conaway Stargatt and Taylor, LLP, one of Delaware’s largest and most respected law firms. Based in Wilmington, Delaware, Mr. Johnston brings over 40 years of experience to his practice, having established himself as a preeminent figure in corporate and commercial litigation. His career is defined by a commitment to the highest standards of the legal profession, serving not only as a fierce advocate for his clients but also as a leader in national and local bar associations. Mr. Johnston’s practice focuses on complex business disputes, corporate governance, and alternative dispute resolution, where his deep understanding of Delaware’s unique legal landscape is invaluable to boards of directors, special committees, and corporate officers.

Beyond his work as a litigator, Mr. Johnston is frequently sought after to serve as a Special Master, mediator, and arbitrator. His reputation for fairness, integrity, and intellectual rigor has made him a trusted neutral in high-stakes conflicts. He has served as President of the Delaware State Bar Association and the American Counsel Association, roles that highlight the esteem in which he is held by his peers. Whether guiding a company through a sensitive internal investigation or resolving a multimillion-dollar contract dispute, Mr. Johnston approaches every matter with a blend of strategic vision and practical wisdom.

Comprehensive Legal Services

William D. Johnston offers a wide range of services tailored to the needs of the business community:

• Corporate Litigation: Representing companies and directors in the Delaware Court of Chancery and Superior Court regarding fiduciary duties, mergers and acquisitions, and shareholder rights.
• Commercial Disputes: Handling complex breach of contract cases, business torts, and valuation disputes.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Serving as a mediator and arbitrator to resolve commercial conflicts efficiently outside of the courtroom.
• Special Master Services: Appointed by courts to oversee complex discovery processes and manage specific aspects of litigation.
• Corporate Counseling: Advising boards and management on governance best practices, indemnification, and regulatory compliance.

Recognized for Professionalism and Service

Mr. Johnston’s contributions to the legal field have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Daniel L. Herrmann Professional Conduct Award from the Delaware State Bar Association. He is consistently ranked in The Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers. His commitment to the community is equally impressive; he serves as Chair of the City of Wilmington Ethics Commission and dedicates significant time to pro bono work, including representation in Delaware Family Court and with the Veterans Law Clinic. He is also a champion of diversity and inclusion, having served on the ABA’s Center for Racial and Ethnic Diversity.

‘Bill brings close to 35 years of practice experience to serve as an advocate on behalf of clients in corporate and other business counseling and litigation.’

Operating from Young Conaway’s state-of-the-art offices on North King Street, Mr. Johnston has access to the full resources of a top-tier firm. The firm’s collaborative environment allows him to assemble multidisciplinary teams to address even the most multifaceted legal challenges. For clients seeking a lawyer who embodies the best traditions of the Delaware Bar-excellence, civility, and service-William D. Johnston is an exceptional choice.

Prime Location in the Courthouse District

Mr. Johnston practices out of 1000 North King Street, located in the heart of Wilmington’s legal district. The building is situated directly opposite the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center, ensuring that he is always close to the action. This central location provides clients with easy access to the courts and a professional, convenient setting for meetings. The office reflects the firm’s stature as a leader in Delaware law, equipped with modern amenities to support complex litigation and arbitration.