J. William Dodd

William’s litigation practice includes the defense of national corporations, property owners, healthcare organizations, and transportation companies in matters involving general and premises liability, product liability, commercial trucking, and construction disputes. He has extensive experience managing complex discovery, motion practice, and mediation, and is known for his strategic approach to risk management, client communication, and coordinated defense execution.

In addition to his litigation work, William’s transactional experience includes directing and advising on mergers and acquisitions, entity formation, and governance structures for companies operating across multiple jurisdictions. He has led and managed complex business transactions exceeding $3 billion in aggregate value, particularly in the healthcare sector—encompassing medical practices, management service organizations, and dental and aesthetic entities. William has drafted and negotiated asset and equity purchase agreements, management service agreements, and governance frameworks that align with client objectives and adapt to evolving regulatory requirements.

In the healthcare field, William has advised clients on employee-benefits compliance and plan design, including COBRA administration, ACA employer obligations, and ERISA plan governance for both for-profit enterprises and nonprofit organizations. His experience includes structuring professional entities, management arrangements, and benefit frameworks to enhance operational efficiency while ensuring full compliance with federal and state healthcare and employment regulations.

His additional work includes advising clients on real estate acquisitions, commercial leasing, and development strategy, including Opportunity Zone and 1031 exchange structuring. William’s combined litigation and transactional background enables him to provide comprehensive legal solutions that integrate business, regulatory, and litigation perspectives.

Before joining GRSM, William served as an associate attorney with national and regional firms, where he represented clients in both corporate and litigation matters. He also served as a Judicial Law Clerk for the 21st Judicial District of Tennessee.