William R. Reed

Member

Denver, Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado

Phone: 303.299.8120

Fax:

[email protected]

Education

  • J.D., University of Denver Sturm College of Law (2013)
    • Senior Articles Editor, Denver University Law Review
    • Order of St. Ives
  • B.A., Wheaton College (1997)
    • Philosophy

Will Reed is experienced in resolving a wide variety of commercial matters both at trial and on appeal. He has helped business owners navigate all kinds of disputes including contract disputes, covenants not to compete and duty of loyalty, business torts, and trade secrets. He also focuses a large share of his practice on insurance recovery litigation and on helping policyholders obtain the coverage and benefits provided for in their insurance contracts.

Taking a holistic problem-solving approach, Will utilizes a combination of insurance coverage, risk management, public relations, and litigation to protect his clients and position them for success. A former reporter for newspapers in Michigan and Colorado, he leverages his skills as a journalist to uncover facts, build strong cases, and craft compelling stories for judges and juries. His background also makes him particularly adept in helping clients manage crisis communications and protect their reputations.

Experience

  • Successfully defended a technology repair client in a federal lawsuit by a competitor alleging misappropriation of trade secrets. After defense victories on several motions, the plaintiff dismissed its claims and paid a portion of our client’s attorney fees.
  • Acted as first chair for a bench trial, securing a verdict for a nonprofit client serving disabled adults as plaintiff on a breach-of-contract claim.
  • Represented a national beer maker as plaintiff in a complex insurance recovery litigation against a state insurance guaranty association, seeking repayment of sums wrongfully demanded of our client for two decades. Ultimately obtained a settlement payment from the association.
  • Served as a member of the team representing a mining industry defendant in a complex business dispute involving plaintiff’s attempts to unwind and evade its obligations under a long-term lease on property. After several victories on significant motions, obtained a favorable settlement for the client on the eve of trial.
  • Represented a utility company in a substantial litigation matter stemming from a 50-year dispute with a city involving a municipal electric utility. After nine months of litigation as plaintiff, successfully negotiated a deal enabling the client to purchase the municipal utility and provide ongoing service to citizens. Also advised the client throughout the purchase process, which included a public election, regulatory approval, asset purchase agreement, and long-term franchise agreement.
  • Assisted furniture industry business owner in investigating and litigating breach of duty of loyalty claims against former officers and employees, negotiating a substantial settlement.

Publications & Presentations

PRESENTATIONS

  • Insurance Coverage Disputes for Firearms and Shooting Claims: CGL, Homeowners, Auto, Concealed Carry Policies
    Strafford Live Webinar | July 15, 2020
  • Assigning Liability for Collisions of Autonomous Vehicles
    28th Annual Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee Mid-Year Conference, Phoenix | February 21, 2020
  • Media Relations in a Crisis
    Sherman & Howard Construction Seminar | March 2019
  • Money Talk$: Collecting Insurance Money from Commercial Defendants
    CTLA Commercial Litigation Committee | June 13, 2018
  • Crisis: It Happens
    Annual Colorado Labor & Employment Law Conference | May 2018
  • Media Melee: Keep Your Shield Up, but Your Sword Sheathed
    Annual Colorado Labor & Employment Law Conference | May 2017
  • Media Melee
    Annual Colorado Construction Law Seminar | February 2017
  • Legislation and Ordinance Update: A House Divided?
    Annual Colorado Construction Law Seminar | February 2016

 

PUBLICATIONS

 

PRESS

Professional Activities

  • American Bar Association
    • Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section
    • Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee
  • Colorado Bar Association
  • Denver Bar Association
  • El Paso County Bar Association
  • Insurance Coverage Litigation General Committee, vice-chair

Highlights

  • “Ones to Watch,” Denver, Best Lawyers in America
    • Appellate Practice (2022 – 2024)
    • Commercial Litigation (2021 – 2024)
    • Insurance Law (2022 – 2024)
  • Colorado Springs Top Lawyers, Insurance Law, Colorado Springs Magazine (2022)