Bill Heller is a nationally recognized trial lawyer, governance leader, and innovator at the forefront of law, finance, and technology. With more than 30 years of courtroom and board-level experience, he founded and chairs Akerman's Consumer Financial Services, Data & Technology (CFS+) Practice, one of the nation's largest legal teams representing financial institutions, fintech companies, and emerging technologies. He also serves on Akerman's Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
Bill represents industry leaders in high-stakes litigation, regulatory enforcement, and technology disputes, with a practice that spans:
- AI, Fintech & Emerging Tech — advising on AI adoption, technology development, trade secrets, market competition, privacy, and cybersecurity.
- Consumer Finance — defending individual and class actions, managing examinations and investigations, and coordinating nationwide compliance.
- Governance & Risk — counseling boards and executives on litigation strategy, investigations, and operationalizing global legal requirements.
- Cross-Industry Reach — also representing businesses in entertainment, healthcare, and commodities on governance, intellectual property, product launches, and disputes.
Bill has first-chaired jury trials and arbitrations across the U.S. and led more than 1,500 appeals, presenting novel issues and establishing precedent in areas ranging from financial services to technology. Recognized by Chambers USA, Benchmark Litigation, and Best Lawyers in America, Bill is also a frequent speaker on litigation strategy, compliance, and the impact of AI on law and business.
Beyond Akerman, Bill serves as Chief Legal Advisor to JFI Medical LLC and JFI Sports Medicine, organizations advancing equitable healthcare access. A former NCAA distance runner, he brings the same discipline and endurance to client advocacy and leadership.