William Williford is the owner and managing partner of Breen and Williford, Injury Lawyers, PSC, based in Bowling Green. His career is defined by his commitment to justice, his military service, and his dedication to helping others, particularly veterans.
Williford’s professional journey began when he moved to Bowling Green at 18 years old to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in political science at WKU. While studying, he started working as a law clerk for Mike Breen, who would later become his law partner.
Inevitably, Williford decided to enlist in the United States Army. He served for two enlistments as a noncommissioned officer in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps, attaining the rank of staff sergeant. He was also part of several distinguished units as a paratrooper, including the 82nd Airborne Division, Joint Special Operations Command, and the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne). His service led to a passion for helping veterans.
Upon completing his service, Williford returned to Bowling Green and shifted his focus back to education. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and continued his studies by pursuing a master’s degree in English at WKU. This would make him a three-time graduate of WKU.
At the same time he was pursuing his master’s, he enrolled at the Nashville School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree. Williford graduated with both his master’s degree and doctorate within two weeks of each other in May 2021.
Following his law school graduation, Williford rejoined Mike Breen’s legal practice. After less than two years, he purchased the law firm on Jan. 1, 2023. This process had been in the works for about a year. As the new owner and managing partner, Williford took on the responsibility of managing the firm while continuing to practice law.
“Personally and professionally speaking, I think I have experienced 10-fold growth, maybe more, in the last two years,” Williford said. “I attribute much of that growth to finally being out of the military and out of the classroom and being afforded an opportunity to practice and implement my lifelong plans. I wanted those military and educational experiences to be a more effective person, and now I’m finally reaping the benefits of my past sacrifices.”
Williford’s legal work is closely connected to his passion for supporting veterans. As a lawyer, he has built his practice around representing the injured and veterans, ensuring they receive the care and legal support they need. His involvement goes beyond just his office; he volunteers with the Veteran to Veteran program with Hospice of Southern Kentucky. He said he has learned the significance of giving his focus to a cross-section of people who really need help so they can receive the full benefit of his resources and experience.
“I want to help everyone I can, but it is impossible to help every single person that is underserved,” Williford said.
At home, Williford’s family is just as driven. His wife, Ely, is an undergraduate student at WKU, pursuing dual degrees in business and economics. He said her connection to WKU furthers his connection to WKU. Their daughter, Angie, is a senior at Warren East High School and plays for the Lady Raiders varsity soccer team. Her parents hope that she follows in their footsteps and becomes a Hilltopper, too.