Will Stute honored as American Lawyer Litigator of the Year finalist and National Law Journal’s Top Litigator of the 2023 for “Playing to Win”

1 minute read | December.04.2023

American Lawyer named partner Will Stute one of six finalists nationwide for Litigator of the Year for his “incredible victories” for the NCAA in three blockbuster trials.
Citing his broad record as a “nationally recognized trial lawyer,” American Lawyer called out in particular his “playing to Win” in securing victories for the NCAA, including in the first cases in the nation to go to trial involving claims related to concussions in college football.
The National Law Journal also recently recognized Will as the top Winning Litigator of 2023 for his string of trial wins for the NCAA. He was selected among a group of 12 finalists. The Courtroom View Network named Will’s trial win for the NCAA in December 2022 “The Most Impressive Defense Verdict” of the year.
In a Q&A with the National Law Journal, Will offered this advice: “When on defense, play to win – not to avoid losing. The best defense is a good offense.”
American Lawyer cited the NCAA trial wins as part of the overall track record that earned Orrick a spot as finalist for National Litigation Department of the Year.

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Will Stute Partner, Complex Litigation & Dispute Resolution, Sports Law

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Will Stute Partner

Washington, D.C.

In the span of less than 10 months across 2022 and 2023, he won three separate high-profile jury trials for the NCAA – including the first to take on claims the NCAA is responsible for concussions and CTE in college football. This victory was recognized as the Courtroom View Network’s Most Impressive Defense Verdict of 2022, American Lawyer Litigator of the Week and the Daily Journal’s Defense Verdict of the Year.

Will’s versatility, strategic acumen and ability to think on his feet separate him as a trial lawyer. He is highly skilled at developing strategy, telling his client’s story and connecting with juries – and he has done it for clients across the tech, finance and life sciences sectors on claims ranging from mass torts, personal injury and False Claims Act cases to antitrust, securities fraud and RMBS litigation. Will tries cases when others fold, settles cases on the most favorable terms, and earns praise from clients for his confident and steady leadership throughout the battle.

A champion of teamwork and inclusion, Will brings a diverse team of top talent to every engagement. He is active in his community and is proud to represent a civil rights organization pro bono in litigation seeking to end discriminatory housing practices in Minnesota.

Will’s passion for obtaining the best possible results for clients is eclipsed only by his commitment to family and his four sons.