William J. Downey

Co-chair of the firm’s Gaming group. Reputation as one of the most respected attorneys in the gaming industry.

With over 30 years of experience, Bill Downey counsels a wide range of participants in the gaming and hospitality industries concerning the regulatory and business aspects of their proposals, ventures and operations. Bill’s clients include online sports wagering and i-gaming operators, brick-and-mortar casinos and technology providers, as well as federally recognized tribes and their subsidiaries operating and seeking to operate in the commercial gaming space. 

Bill devotes a considerable portion of his practice to the prosecution of license applications before regulatory agencies and developing solutions to operational and financing issues. His practice includes guiding clients through the regulatory implications of venture structure, entity formation and governance, regulatory compliance, acquisitions and dispositions, corporate and real estate finance, real estate matters and other business transactions. 

Education

• J.D., 1991, Rutgers Law School
• B.A., 1988, University of Notre Dame

Admissions

• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania

Memberships

International Association of Gaming Advisors, General Counsel

New Jersey State Bar Association

Atlantic County Bar Association, Casino Section

International Masters of Gaming Law

International Association of Gaming Attorneys, General Counsel

AWARDS:

Best Lawyers in America, 2022-2025

• Gaming Law Lawyer of the Year, Atlantic City, 2024

Chambers USA, Gaming Licensing Nationwide, 2019-2025

Forbes, America’s Top 200 Lawyers, 2024

Martindale-Hubbell “AV Preeminent” rated