William C. Livingston

Bill Livingston is an award-winning trial and appellate lawyer recognized in The Best Lawyers in America and as an Ohio Super Lawyers Rising Star.

Livingston represents individuals facing serious criminal charges and is committed to defending clients at every stage of a case—from investigation through trial and appeal. He handles post-conviction cases involving constitutional error and claims of wrongful conviction. He also represents students and professionals in Title IX and other institutional proceedings.

His civil practice focuses on holding institutions accountable. Livingston maintains a nationwide First Amendment practice dedicated to protecting free speech and challenging government overreach. He also represents clients in civil rights, medical malpractice, and general negligence matters.

An experienced appellate advocate, Livingston regularly represents clients in appeals in state and federal courts, concentrating on careful legal analysis and precise advocacy. He serves as a member of the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals’ Criminal Justice Act Panel.

Education:
Cleveland State University College of Law (Cleveland-Marshall College of Law), magna cum laude, Criminal Law Concentration
Mercyhurst University, B.A., 2009, cum laude

Recognition:
The Best Lawyers in America, 2025–Present
Ohio Super Lawyers Rising Stars, 2021–Present

Professional Associations:
First Amendment Lawyers Association
Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Cuyahoga County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Admissions:
State of Ohio
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
Supreme Court of the United States

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