William Butler (judge)

William Butler (1790-1850) was an American jurist and politician from South Carolina. He served as a Judge of the South Carolina Court of General Sessions and Common Pleas from 1833 until his death.

Born in Prince William's Parish, South Carolina, Butler was educated at South Carolina College (now the University of South Carolina), graduating in 1809. He then studied law and was admitted to the bar, establishing a legal practice.

Butler was active in state politics, serving in the South Carolina House of Representatives and the South Carolina Senate. He was a strong advocate for states' rights.

His tenure as a judge was marked by a reputation for fairness and impartiality. He presided over numerous cases during a period of significant social and political tension in the antebellum South.

William Butler was the brother of US Congressman William Butler (1791-1821) and US Senator Andrew Butler (1796-1857). He died in 1850 and is buried in South Carolina.