About William J. Dinkin

Bill Dinkin has been practicing law since 1990 and has concentrated his practice in the area of criminal law and civil litigation. His peers have regularly voted him among the Legal Elite for criminal lawyers in Virginia Business magazine and he has also been recognized for many years as a Virginia Super Lawyer in the area of criminal defense and white collar law. Mr. Dinkin is a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers, an elite organization of the country’s leading trial lawyers.

Mr. Dinkin represents clients charged with all types of felonies and misdemeanors in state and federal court and is particularly known for his expertise in federal white collar representation. In federal court he has recently defended clients in federal jury and bench trials against charges such as wire, mail and bank frauds, Medicaid fraud, environmental crimes, theft of trade secrets, money laundering, monetary structuring, drug conspiracies and narcotics distribution. He also has extensive experience handling white collar crimes at the state level, such as embezzlement, state securities fraud, and tax fraud. Mr. Dinkin counsels businesses during both internal investigations and when they are the target of grand jury investigations. He also handles traffic, DUI, underage possession of alcohol, possession of marijuana and other misdemeanor cases in state court and appeals at all levels, state and federal. Prior to practicing under the firm of William J. Dinkin, PLC, he was a member of Stone, Dinkin & Amirshahi, PLC, Additionally, Mr. Dinkin co-founded the firm of Dinkin & Purnell, PLLC. He also served for almost nine years in the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office for the City of Richmond, rising to the supervisory post of Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney. In that role, he was in charge of white collar prosecutions and also supervised and prosecuted hundreds of cases of narcotics crimes, violent crimes and asset forfeiture. His extensive trial experience as a prosecutor and defense attorney includes hundreds of bench trials and well over 50 jury trials, including capital murder, complex drug and financial crimes and the prosecution and defense of public officials for corruption and theft. In the civil arena, Mr. Dinkin often works with associated counsel representing plaintiffs in personal injury cases.

Mr. Dinkin teaches advanced trial advocacy and ethics in criminal litigation as an adjunct professor of law at the University of Richmond and is a frequent lecturer on criminal law at legal seminars. He has also published legal articles in journals such as the University of Richmond Law Review and the Virginia Bar Association Journal.

Bill Dinkin graduated from the University of Richmond Law School, where he was a member of the McNeil Law Society (top 10% of class). He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia. Mr. Dinkin is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Richmond Bar Association and the American Bar Association.

Published Works

• Hayes & Dinkin, “Environmental Liability in Real Property Transactions, 23 U. Rich. L. Rev. 349., 1989

• William J. Dinkin & Cullen D. Seltzer, Survey of Virginia Criminal Law, 35 U. Rich. L. Rev. 537, 2001

Classes/Seminars

• Adjunct Professor of Law, University of Richmond, 2000 – Present

Honors and Awards

• Virginia Legal Elite – Criminal Defense, 2003 – 2009, 2011, 2013-Present

• Virginia Superlawyers – White Collar Criminal Defense, 2006 – Present

• Best Lawyers in America – Criminal Defense: White Collar, 2016 – Present

Past Employment Positions

• Dinkin & Purnell, PLLC, Partner, 2002 – 2010

• City of Richmond Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney, 1994 – 2002

Professional Associations and Memberships

• National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Member, 2002 – Present

• City of Richmond Bar Association, Member, 2002 – Present

 

Awards

Reviews for William J. Dinkin

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Criminal Law
Posted by Dawn
June 19, 2025
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

I was recently represented by Bill Dinkin in a challenging legal matter and my experience was extraordinary. From the start, Bill's unmatched professionalism and expertise in handling my case were evident. Despite legal complexities and delays, particularly due to my health issues, Bill handled everything with kindness, compassion, and unwavering commitment. I previously witnessed his skills in another case, confirming his capabilities. Bill blends brilliance and tenacity, effectively delivering smooth, persuasive arguments. Having worked with many attorneys, Bill stands out as one of Virginia's best. Throughout, his meticulous attention to detail and strategic insight brought me peace and confidence. On my hearing day, justice prevailed, and I was exonerated. Regardless of the winning outcome, I am grateful for his exceptional representation. Bill's dedication and genuine care for clients are rare qualities. Bill is a true anomaly in the field– it was an honor to have him by my side.

 
Criminal Law
Posted by Yolanda
January 02, 2025
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

I truly appreciated the patience and experience Mr. Dinkin brought to my case. It was a very unique case that was not an easy one to fight. However, I was fully confident in Mr. Dinkin, and I was very comfortable placing my life and the lives of my entire family in his hands. I will always be grateful to Mr. Dinkin and will always owe a great debt to him for seeing my case through. He listened to my concerns, and I felt like he took my case personally. I will always recommend Mr. Dinkin to fight for what is right even when the situation seems weary. You are truly a blessing to me, and I pray for your continued success always!

 
Expungements
Posted by Brian
September 24, 2024
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

Mr. Dinkin handled a complex expungement case for us. He worked diligently to work thru the challenging issues created by the courts and explain things every step of the way. He was patient and persistent throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Mr. Dinkin. He will work passionately for you and not get discouraged when the going gets tough.

 
Criminal Law
Posted by CC
May 30, 2024
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

  I cannot praise Attorney William Dinkin highly enough for the unprecedented legal representation he provided where I had the privilege of seeing first hand what makes him exceptional and in his own league that should be considered as new standards of practice for new and seasoned attorneys.  Mr. Dinkin work is unique in his way of not only combining legal expertise, dedication, and strategic approach which were exceptional; his ability to empathize with his clients understanding the difficulties they’re going through.    Throughout the entire experience, Mr. Dinkin demonstrated a deep understanding of the law and a thorough knowledge of the legal system and through a unique ability to translate client concerns to legal advice and vice-versa, he maintained an exceptional communication not only of the case status but proper expectations.    Closing in, a successful outcome was achieved thanks to the expertise and knowledge of the law. g

 
White Collar Crime
Posted by J
May 20, 2024
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

There are few people in this worlkd that are truely good people with good intentions. Unfortunately I did not win y case, but Mr. Dinkin has continued to go above to help and support me through this trying time. Mr. Dinkin always answered the phone with a ompasionate ear. I never had difficuly getting in contact or reaching him. His knoweldge base is other worldly. Mr. Dinkin has contined to help and support me even after my trial and conviction. Mr. Dinkin represented me to the Board of Counseling assisting in re-obtaining my license pro bono. There are not enough positive thinhgs I can say about this good man. I would feel safe and comfortable leaving my children with him knowing they would be well taken care of. Mr. Dinkin is 1 of 5 people in this world i can say I truely trust. Just a wonderful human being.

 
Criminal Law
Posted by Adle
February 06, 2024
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

Working with Mr. Dinkin was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Mr. Dinkin was highly recommended, retained and superseded expectations. With no hope as I sat in jail for weeks on criminal charges (Domestic Violence) unable to get a bond hearing. Mr. Dinkin visited me and it was apparent his focus (4:15PM on a Friday) was only on getting to know me, the jails conditions, my story and a bond hearing to start. He was thorough, informative, established immediate trust through his professional, compassionate and genuine demeanor. He got me a bond hearing, Won that. Worked with Magistrates, Judges and Prosecutors immediately; He negotiated and 5 of 6 charges were dropped, the lone Felony charge was dropped to a Misdemeanor, ALL of this prior to my court date. His experience and personality earned respect/leverage from prosecutors as well as judges. He is everything you pray for in an attorney and more. I faced 12 mths in jail. All suspended. I'm forever grateful for his services!

 
Criminal Law
Posted by anonymous
December 04, 2023
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

My name is Mohamed Elshamy you can google my name to read my case , I got convicted with 2 counts of 924(c) conspiracy for robbery I hired Mr bill dinkin, and this was the best thing I ever did , my charges was carry mandatory minimum 32 years, 7 years first count plus 25 years for second count , in my sentence day I got 32 because this is what the law call for mandatory minimum ( I can’t get sentences to less than 32 years , can be more but not less , any lawyers can tell you he can’t get you out of this, in my sentence day , mr dinkin advice to appeal because he said never give up I think I do some for you , I told him in the breath meeting with him 5 minutes before I got sentenced, mr dinkin I don’t have no more money to give you to appeal my case!! He didn’t say anything back to me , after I got sentenced that man stand up in the court room asking the judge to hire him like court appointed lawyer so he can appeal my case because I don’t have money!!! I end up with 8 years………………….i

 
Criminal Law
Posted by anonymous
December 04, 2023
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

Mohamed Elshamy part 2 , please read part one , after Mr bill dinkin hires himself for free , do you believe I use to call that man at lease once a week to ask about my case , I was calling from prison to his office , some time he’s not there so he end up give me his mobile phone number , and always answering my calls!! Do you know how hard it is to get lawyers to accept your phone call , some time I don’t have money he still accept my calls and pay for it from his end , I just got out few months ago , thanks to god and bill dinkin, he dropped 18 years from my original sentence , this man is not about money this man honors his oath, thank you Mr bill din

 
Criminal Law
Posted by Angelique
September 08, 2023
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

Search No Further! You've reached the right person at the right time! Mr. Dinkin gets 6 stars...Yes 6 stars! He went above and beyond for my family and me. His expertise in Federal Criminal Law highly qualifies him to represent you, a family member, and/or whomever. He's not only professional and passionate about his practice he's also very friendly, convenient and punctual with helping you!!

 
White Collar Crime
Posted by Jean
May 17, 2023
Hired Attorney William J. Dinkin

I needed someone/a lawyer to go with me to a very important meeting in Virginia and someone recommended Bill. I made contact with him immediately and explained the circumstances of the meeting for which I needed the presence of a lawyer. After carefully listening to me, we scheduled to meet in his office prior to the meeting, so that I could share more of the details with him. That was a couple of years ago. I could not have been more pleased with my choice of Bill to be my “protector” at that meeting and thereafter. The results were and have been quite satisfactory. And Bill and I have remained in touch since. Great guy. Very relatable at so many levels. Compassionate. Bill, should you read this review: THANKS FOR HAVING BEEN AT MY CORNER!! Wishing you continued success.

 

Services

Areas of Law

  • Litigation 1
    • Civil Litigation
  • White Collar Crime
  • Criminal Law 1
    • Drug Crimes
  • Other 2
    • Criminal Defense
    • DUI and Reckless Driving

Practice Details

Experience

  • Bar Admission & Memberships
    Admissions
    1990, Virginia
    1990, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia
    1990, U.S. District Court, Western District of Virginia
    Memberships
    National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    City of Richmond Bar Association
    American Bar Association.
  • Education & Certifications
    Law School
    University of Richmond, The T.C. Williams School of Law
    Class of 1990
    J.D.
    McNeill Law Society
    Other Education
    University of Virginia
    Class of 1986
    B.A.
    iology, Dean’s List 1985-86
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Attorneys FAQs

  • What year was this attorney first admitted to the bar?
    William J. Dinkin was admitted in 1990 to the State of Virginia.
  • Is this attorney admitted to practice in any U.S. Federal Courts?
    William J. Dinkin is admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
  • Is this attorney Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review rated?
    Yes, William J. Dinkin has a 5.0 Peer Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
  • What law school did this attorney attend?
    William J. Dinkin attended University of Richmond, The T.C. Williams School of Law.