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William F. Backer

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William F. Backer
Litigation Partner

About William F. Backer, Litigation Partner

A background that includes multiple stints as an assistant prosecuting attorney, including heading a multi-county child support enforcement unit, has given William F. Backer plenty of courtroom and litigation experience.

It also gives him an understanding of how the other side works from doing it himself.

“For instance, that experience from the other side in child support enforcement allows me to know what their options are, how they are going to proceed and how they are going to make their decision on whether to bring contempt or criminal charges,” Mr. Backer said. “That puts me in a position to tell a client here’s what the other side is thinking, and trust me, I know because I’ve done it.”

Mr. Backer said his extensive experience working on jury trials has helped hone his courtroom skills.

“My greatest strength is being able to take what appears on the outside to be a very complicated case and break it down so it is easily understood,” he said. “It’s important to be able to present and organize your evidence in such a way that it is not only convincing but understandable.”

His ability to make complex legal terms and issues easy to understand is also important in communicating with and helping guide his clients through the confusing divorce process.

“In order to achieve the best results in your case, it is crucial for you to be completely honest in your communication with me so that we can be prepared for everything,” Mr. Backer said. “I am your partner in this process, and you can trust that I will advocate for you at every stage in the process.”

Licenses

Mr. Backer is licensed in Missouri and Kansas.

Education

Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, with an emphasis in Accounting, from the University of Missouri – St. Louis; Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law.

Professional Experience

  • Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Jefferson County, where he prosecuted felonies. In 2009, he was promoted to Team Leader and supervised other attorneys and paralegals.
  • Associate Attorney where he practiced mainly in the area of criminal defense.
  • Assistant Prosecuting Attorney with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office in St. Francois County, where he was in charge of a multi-county child support enforcement unit.

Associations

Mr. Backer is a member of the Missouri Bar Association.

Publication

Mr. Backer presented on child support at the Catholic Family Services Fatherhood Initiative. He has also authored articles on family law on DadsDivorce.com.

Real-Life Experiences
Reviews from Our Past Clients
“Wow, there’s so much I have to say about Cordell & Cordell. I walked in with tears in my eyes hopeless because everything was taken a way from me. Father of 7 children that was told there’s no hope for the fathers now days. Cordell & Cordell welcomed me in their hands and proved everyone wrong. They were there for me and my children until the end.”
– Izet K.
“It took years for me to come to a decision to end my marriage. I sought a law firm that is focused and prepared for trial if need be, and seeks to give me the best outcome possible. Cordell and Cordell has performed very well and is very supportive during this difficult time. I have full confidence in my representation and recommend them.”
– Mason B.
“Cordell & Cordell has been really helpful in all my divorce and custody-related needs, even when I have been struggling to make ends meet, they remained communicative regarding my account. I am very grateful to have had such amazing representation in the most important court case of my life! Thank you!”
– Amanda H
“Divorce is hard enough without trying to find a Lawyer who will truly work for you. I had several conversations with Lawyers that seemed only interested in winning somehow. No one wins in a divorce. I should have went to Cordell & Cordell first so I would have avoided a lot of headaches. I met a group of people that genuinely care for you.”
– Mark L.
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