William Adams

For over 32 years, William has helped a variety of clients with their legal needs. A graduate of the University of San Diego School of Law, he obtained his Juris Doctor (J.D.) and Master of Laws in Taxation degrees from the institution in 1986 and 1988 respectively. He was admitted to practice in California, United States District Court (Southern and Eastern Districts), and the United States Tax Court.

Mr. Adams' areas of emphasis include employment, sensitive land uses, disabled access, and pension law. He also has a special familiarity with issues affecting the hospitality industry (e.g., hotels and restaurants). Additionally, he has extensive litigation experience, some of which has led to published court decisions favoring his clients [e.g., Organization for Advancement of Minorities with Disabilities v. Brick Oven Restaurant (September 15, 2005, USDC So. Cal.) 406 F.Supp.2d 1120]. He has also advised the public sector, serving as the legal advisor to the County Civil Service Commission from 1997 to 2010.

Work in the Community

As a people-oriented attorney, Mr. Adams has been extensively involved in his community and his clients' industries. A sampling of his roles include:

President (1992) - Gaslamp Quarter Association
Directorships (Past and Present) - Gaslamp Quarter Association, Food & Beverage Association of San Diego County, California Restaurant Association (San Diego Chapter), Children's Mobilization Team, Save Our Heritage Organization, & Hostelling International (SD)
Public Office (1996-2000) - Centre City Redevelopment Project Area Committee (Core Area & Gaslamp Quarter Business and Property Owners Representative

He has also authored several amicus curiae briefs on behalf of industry interests. One of the most recent briefs he's authored resulted in a decision to limit plaintiff attorney fee recoveries in overreaching employment and civil rights litigation in a California Supreme Court appeal [Chavez v. City of Los Angeles (Jan. 14, 2010) 47 Cal.4th 970].