William C. Ayer

About

**William C. Ayer, Jr. - Attorney at True Guarnieri Ayer, LLP** William C. Ayer, Jr., known as Bill, is a seasoned attorney with an impressive career spanning over five decades in the legal field. Based in Frankfort, Kentucky, Bill has dedicated his professional life to serving the community through his extensive expertise in corporate litigation, civil litigation, probate, wills and estates, business litigation, and real estate transactions. Born in Owensboro, Kentucky, and raised in Calhoun and Madisonville, Bill graduated from Madisonville High School before pursuing higher education at Murray State University. He earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Kentucky College of Law in 1968. Following his graduation, Bill served honorably in the U.S. Army, where he was commissioned through ROTC and spent a significant portion of his service in Korea. During this time, he held the prestigious role of Executive Officer for Brigadier General Harold G. Moore, whose experiences inspired the film "We Were Soldiers." Upon returning to Kentucky, Bill began his legal career in Madisonville before relocating to Frankfort in 1971. He initially worked with the Kentucky Bar Association and subsequently became the first attorney for the newly established Kentucky Office of Public Defender in 1972. Rising to the position of Deputy Public Defender in 1981, he played a critical role in shaping public defense in the state until transitioning to private practice in 1983. In 1986, Bill co-founded the law firm Cleveland and Ayer, where he skillfully represented clients in various legal matters, including significant business and civil litigation cases. His commitment to justice and community service has made him a respected figure in the legal community. Retired since 2024, William C. Ayer, Jr. continues to be recognized for his substantial contributions to the legal profession and his unwavering dedication to the residents of Frankfort and beyond.

Credentials

Recognition & Involvement