Bill Curran concentrates on administrative and government law, particularly in the areas of real estate development, land use/zoning, and gaming law. He has built a strong gaming practice through both his tenure as Chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission and his assistance to some of the gaming industry's largest casinos. Bill serves on a number of compliance committees for gaming companies and resort hotels and frequently participates in corporate compliance and internal investigation activities for major corporations.
Bill served with the Nevada Gaming Commission, from his appointment in 1989 through his tenure as Chairman, 1991 to 1999. He also served as Chairman of the International Association of Gaming Regulators from 1993 to 1994. In 1995, he was recognized by International Gaming & Wagering Business magazine as one of the 25 most influential individuals in the gaming industry.
Bill served as County Counsel for Clark County, Nevada, from 1979 to 1989, and as Deputy District Attorney from 1975 to 1979.
Professional Highlights
Pro Bono Experience
Bill is the Las Vegas office representative to Ballard Spahr's Pro Bono Committee. He has received recognition for his service from both pro bono providers and the media, including the 2013 Pro Bono Project Award, in recognition of performing 100 hours or more of pro bono work in 2013.
Judicial Clerkships
Chief Justice E.M. Gunderson, Nevada Supreme Court, 1973-1974
Professional Activities
American Bar Association, member, Board of Governors (2006-2009); Nevada State Delegate (1994-2006); State Bar Delegate (1991-1994)
State Bar of Nevada, President (1988-1989); member, Board of Governors (1979-1989)
Clark County (Nevada) Bar Association; recipient of 2007 Liberty Bell award in recognition of civic responsibility and dedication to the local community
Recognition & Accomplishments
Named to the 100 Hours Club by the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada Pro Bono Project
The Best Lawyers in America, gaming law, government relations practice, land use and zoning law, real estate law, 2006-2021; "Lawyer of the Year," Land Use and Zoning Law (Las Vegas), 2017
Chambers USA, gaming and licensing law, 2003-2017; real estate: zoning/land use law, 2008-2018
Speaking Engagements
Bill is a frequent lecturer at both gaming and zoning/land use conferences and has testified before the U.S. Congress and the Nevada Legislature.
Board Memberships & Community Service
United Way of Southern Nevada, 1990-present
Outside Las Vegas Foundation, founding member, 1999-present
Southern Nevada Public Television, 2000-present
Publications
Co-author, "Half-Built Buildings: Preserving Entitlements," Communiqué, September 2010
Co-author, "Nevada Judicial Orientation Manual," National Judicial College, 1974
Related Insights
Credentials
Education
University of California, Berkeley, School of Law (J.D. 1972)
University of Minnesota (B.A., magna cum laude, 1969)
Admissions
California
District of Columbia
Nevada
U.S. Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit