William (“Bill”) Cronin
William Cronin is a Phoenix criminal defense attorney with more than 20 years of experience representing clients in misdemeanor and felony cases throughout Arizona. He has been licensed to practice law in the State of Arizona since 2002 and has defended clients in courts across the state, including the United States District Court for the District of Arizona.
Bill began his legal career in public service with the Mohave County Public Defender’s Office, where he gained extensive courtroom experience handling a wide range of criminal matters. In that role, he represented individuals charged with both misdemeanor and felony offenses, developing the trial skills and strategic judgment that continue to define his criminal defense practice today.
Throughout his career, Bill has successfully defended clients in Arizona municipal courts, justice courts, and superior courts, advocating for favorable outcomes at every stage of the criminal process. His experience includes felony litigation, pretrial motions practice, negotiations with prosecutors, and courtroom advocacy in contested hearings and trials.
Bill earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arizona, followed by a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Pepperdine University. He later obtained his Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in San Diego. His business and legal background allows him to approach criminal defense with a practical, strategic perspective focused on minimizing long-term consequences for his clients.
Questions & Answers with William (“Bill”) Cronin
How long have you lived in Arizona?
Since 1996
Why did you become a criminal defense lawyer?
I was attracted to the adversarial aspect of engaging in trial law and assisting clients as they face the full resources of the government.
Where did you go to law school? Undergrad?
- California Western School of Law in San Diego
- Pepperdine University for my MBA
- The University of Arizona for my BS in business administration
Why does your work stand out from other lawyers?
I don’t know how other lawyers conduct themselves all the time but I try to assist the client through even the smallest aspects of their case that could prove to be important to them in the end.
What do you like most about your job?
Helping someone get justice for their situation.
What do you do when you aren’t a lawyer?
I’m a sports nut so I’ll watch all my teams. Spending time with friends. Riding my Harley.
What questions do clients most commonly ask you? What’s your answer?
The one question I frequently get asked is “Could I have obtained the same result without hiring you?” My answer has always been “Maybe.” That’s because the law sometimes works simply but more often is highly complicated which necessitates the experienced professional.
What do you wish customers knew about you or your profession?
Practicing law is not how it is portrayed on television.
What advice do you have for a client looking to hire a lawyer?
Meet them personally and ask them how their relationship is with the corresponding prosecution agency.
If you were advising someone who wanted to be a lawyer, what would you suggest?
Even before going to law school do several internships in areas that interest you. It may narrow your decision or perhaps change your perspective on becoming an attorney.
What is your greatest strength?
My ability to keep my emotions in check. I feel that’s the best thing an attorney can do for their client. Not to be confused with a lack of passion for the client’s cause.
What questions should a client ask to hire the right lawyer?
- Am I hiring an attorney to represent me and achieve the best outcome we can negotiate or am I hiring someone to get me the result of my choosing?
- Are you experienced in the area of law where my situation rests?
- How familiar are you with our adversary?
- How familiar are you with the particular tribunal?
