Bill Helmstetter is a partner in Akerman’s Corporate Practice Group, where he advises clients on AI strategy, data privacy and cybersecurity matters, and complex technology transactions. Drawing on deep experience at the intersection of technology, data, and privacy, he helps technology companies, startups, and enterprises deploy emerging and disruptive technologies while navigating evolving legal and regulatory frameworks.

Artificial Intelligence

Bill develops enterprise‑level AI governance models aligned with each client’s business objectives and risk profile. He designs AI playbooks to assist companies accelerate growth, reduce risk, and maximize opportunities through licensing, acquisitions, collaborations, and regulatory engagement. With a sophisticated understanding of emerging AI regimes across the U.S., Europe, and other key markets, he advises on responsible AI deployment that integrates privacy, security, and ethical considerations.

Privacy and Security

Bill counsels companies on designing and operationalizing data protection programs that promote trust, resilience, and regulatory compliance. His practice includes cybersecurity compliance, data governance, and risk mitigation. He regularly advises on behavioral advertising, the processing of consumer data, cross‑border data transfers, and incident response. Taking a pragmatic, business-focused approach, he helps clients derive value from data while managing vendor risk and enabling compliant data usage under complex regulatory environments.

Technology Transactions

Bill structures transformative technology deals, including IT outsourcing, SaaS and cloud services agreements, and the licensing of intellectual property, software, and e‑commerce platforms. His experience includes developing a healthcare blockchain ecosystem, licensing synthetic data to train AI models, and outsourcing search and advertising solutions across online and mobile platforms.

M&A and Private Equity

Bill works closely with corporate and finance teams to address the technology, data, and privacy aspects of public and private transactions. He is particularly skilled in handling complex carve-outs involving the separation of technology and other intangible assets, and frequently negotiates related transition services, licensing, and other commercial agreements. Before joining Akerman, Bill was a partner in the Chicago office of an international law firm, where his practice focused primarily on private equity transactions in the software, technology infrastructure, and cybersecurity sectors.