Fred Williams concentrates his practice in public finance, federal taxation, affordable housing, tax credits and business transactions. Fred's experience includes significant involvement in a variety of economic development projects, including a range of tax credits, energy credits, opportunity zones, and tax increment financing. Fred frequently represents public and private entities in public finance and other matters. Fred also has significant experience in complex business transactions.
Served as underwriter's, purchaser’s counsel and bond counsel on numerous bond financings for various types of bond financings for more than thirty years
Served as lead counsel on the structuring of a major research nonprofit's corporate structure; the restructuring positioned the nonprofit to conduct for-profit operations and enter into joint ventures through for-profit subsidiaries
Experienced in negotiating and documenting financial incentives related to energy projects
Represented numerous taxpayers including tax-exempt bond issuers in Internal Revenue Service audits controversies
University of Florida (L.L.M., Tax Law, 1984)
West Virginia University College of Law (J.D., 1981)
Wheeling College (B.S. Accounting, 1978)
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Independent Petroleum Association of America, Tax Committee
U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Taxation Committee
West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants, Huntington Chapter, Former President
The Best Lawyers in America®
Best Lawyers® Morgantown, West Virginia Corporate Law, Lawyer of the Year (2020)
Best Lawyers® Charleston, West Virginia Public Finance Law Lawyer of the Year (2015), West Virginia Lawyer of the Year (2011,2013)
West Virginia Super Lawyers®, Mergers & Acquisitions (2010)
Fellow, West Virginia Bar Foundation (2018)
Distinguished West Virginian Award (1992)
West Virginia Independent Colleges and Universities, Inc., Board Member
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC (2002-2020)
Snell & Wilmer (1998-2002)
Gust Rosenfeld P.L.C. (1992-1998)
Executive Assistant to Governor Gaston N. Caperton (1991-1992)
State Tax Commissioner (1990-1991)
West Virginia Department of Tax and Revenue, Secretary (1990-1991)