About Bill
Bill Coats is a dedicated personal injury attorney based in Bellingham, Washington. He earned his Juris Doctor from Tulane University School of Law in 1990, laying the foundation for a successful legal career. After completing his legal education, Coats began his professional journey as an Assistant Attorney General in the Washington State Attorney General’s Office from 1999 to 2001. This role provided him with inexperience in public service and litigation, which he later applied in private practice. In 2001, Coats transitioned into private practice, where he focused on personal injury law. His commitment to helping clients handle the requirements of the legal system quickly became evident.
By 2006, he had become a partner at Brett & Coats Personal Injury Attorneys, where he further developed his skills in advocating for victims of negligence. In 2010, he joined Brett Murphy Coats Knapp McCandlis & Brown as a partner, continuing to build his reputation as a formidable personal injury attorney. In 2014, Coats took a significant step in his career by founding his own firm, Bill Coats Law. As the principal attorney, he has focused on a range of personal injury cases, including auto accidents, wrongful death, and serious injury claims. His firm has achieved notable settlements for clients, including a $3.2 million award for a worksite injury and a $2.5 million settlement in a wrongful death case. These successes underscore his expertise and dedication to securing justice for those he represents.
Coats is actively involved in various professional associations, reflecting his commitment to the legal community. He is a member of the American Trial Lawyers Association and the Washington State Trial Lawyers Association, where he has served on the Board of Governors. His participation in the Washington State Association for Justice further demonstrates his dedication to advocating for the rights of injured individuals. Additionally, he has chaired the Judicial Candidate Evaluation Committee of the Whatcom County Bar Association, contributing to the integrity of the judicial system. Recognized for his professional achievements, Coats has received high ratings from his peers. He holds a 10.0 Superb rating from AVVO, an attorney rating service that assesses legal professionals based on their experience and client feedback.
Furthermore, he is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an invitation-only group for top trial lawyers in America. Coats’ office is located at 114 W. Magnolia St., 4th Floor, Suite 172, Bellingham, WA 98225, where he offers free consultations to prospective clients, ensuring that access to legal representation is available to those in need.
