America's Top Legal Minds: The 2026 'Best Lawyers' List is Out!
The 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® has been released, showcasing the top 5% of attorneys in the United States. This prestigious list, compiled through a rigorous peer-review process, highlights legal excellence across a wide range of practice areas. Best Lawyers has been honoring legal professionals for 32 years, setting the standard for dedication and skill within the legal profession.
Peer Review: The Key to Recognition
The selection process for Best Lawyers is based on a Purely Peer Review® methodology. This involves nominations from anyone (excluding the nominee), followed by confidential evaluations from currently recognized lawyers in the same practice area and geographic region. The feedback is carefully reviewed to identify the top candidates, who are then confirmed to be in good standing with their local bar associations. Only a small percentage of practicing U.S. attorneys, roughly 5%, earn this distinction.
By the Numbers: A Look at the 2026 Honorees
- Nearly 30,000 lawyers participated in the voting process.
- More than 3.4 million confidential evaluations were conducted.
- Approximately 130,000 vetted nominees were assessed.
- This year's list includes 81,420 lawyers.
- These lawyers represent 151 practice areas.
- They span over 200 geographic regions.
Fragomen Attorneys Honored for Immigration Law Expertise
Notably, Fragomen, a leading immigration law firm, announced that 61 of their attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America™ for their exceptional work in immigration law. Furthermore, 57 Fragomen attorneys were named to the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America, which recognizes outstanding early-career lawyers.
A special congratulations was extended to Partner Sarah K. Peterson, who received the "Lawyer of the Year" designation in immigration law. This honor is particularly significant, as it's awarded to only one lawyer per practice area and geographic region annually.
These recognitions underscore the importance of peer recognition in identifying and celebrating legal talent. The Best Lawyers list serves as a valuable resource for individuals and organizations seeking top-tier legal representation.