News and insights
Remembering William H. Neukom: A champion of the Rule of Law.
17th July 2025
We are deeply saddened by the passing of William H. Neukom, OBE, a lifelong defender of the rule of law, an esteemed member of Omnia’s Advisory Board, and a friend.
As co-founder and long-time Chief Executive Officer of the World Justice Project (“WJP”), Bill dedicated his life to advancing the rule of law globally. Through his visionary leadership, the WJP matured into the gold standard for independent measurement of legal systems, and a catalyst for reform and accountability. His commitment to transparency, justice, and civic trust resonates with Omnia’s values and work.
Bill’s legal career was distinguished not just by its achievements, but by the values that guided him and his leadership of others. His strong ethical compass helped him, as Microsoft’s general counsel for nearly 25 years, to navigate the company through complex legal challenges. Later, as President of the American Bar Association (“ABA”), he focused the organisation on equality and inclusivity, notably founding the ABA’s Commission on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, which seeks to secure equal treatment in the ABA, the legal profession, and the American justice system more broadly without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Bill understood that the rule of law is not just a framework, it is the foundation of free, equitable, and prosperous societies. During WJP’s 15th anniversary in Washington, D.C. last year, he asked what form of government is likely to deal with the existential threats of climate change, the next global pandemic and invidious discrimination – and he provided the answer:
“a rule‑of‑law–compliant government. One that’s open; that believes in just laws; one which believes in accountability; and has a way for folks to resolve their disputes.”
In one of his final public writings, a June 2025 op-ed in the San Francisco Chronicle, Bill responded to executive orders targeting U.S. law firms. Unsurprisingly, he warned against political interference in legal practice and defended the essential role of independent counsel. “Law firms”, he wrote, “must uphold their constitutional and fiduciary duties”, or risk losing the public trust on which the legal profession depends.
Cherie Blair CBE KC, Founder and Chair of Omnia and an Honorary Chair of the WSJ, said:
“Bill Neukom was a rare kind of lawyer – visionary, grounded, and unwavering in his belief that the law should serve everyone, not just the powerful. His work helped shape the global conversation around justice and accountability, and continues to do so. He brought to every conversation a deep belief in justice and institutional integrity. We are saddened by his loss, honoured to have worked alongside him, and committed to remaining a modern law firm of which Bill would be proud.”
We extend our deepest condolences to Bill’s wife, Sally, to their children and grandchildren, and the many communities enriched by his service. His legacy lives on in every effort to uphold justice, integrity, and respect for the law.
