The legal landscape is constantly evolving, and the attorneys leading the charge are redefining advocacy, justice, and expertise in their respective fields. From groundbreaking litigation to innovative legal strategies, these top 10 attorneys are making a significant impact. Whether they are championing consumer rights, navigating high-profile cases, or shaping the future of law, these legal professionals are the ones to watch this year.
Kirk C. Stange
When life gets complicated, Kirk C. Stange is there to untangle it. As the Founding Partner and President of Stange Law Firm,he’s built more than just a business—he’s created a lifeline for those facing some of life’s toughest moments. With 27 offices across nine states, Stange Law Firm is the second-largest family law firm in the U.S. and is recognized for offering equal legal representation to both men and women.
What sets Stange Law Firm apart is the personal touch they offer. Kirk has created a system focused on accessibility and transparency. Clients have direct access to their attorneys, even beyond regular office hours, ensuring they get support when needed. The firm’s innovative “Your Case Tracker” also provides 24/7 online access to case files, keeping clients informed and involved without added stress.
Kirk’s dedication extends far beyond the courtroom. He is an influential figure in the legal community, frequently invited to speak at industry-leading events such as the Missouri Bar’s Annual Law Update. His contributions to legal education have earned him recognition from the Missouri Bar, reinforcing his role as a thought leader in family law. Since 2015, he has been consistently named a Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers honoree, and his success has secured him a spot on Missouri Lawyers Media’s POWER List Top 30—further solidifying his influence in the field.
Looking ahead, Kirk Stange is committed to expanding Stange Law Firm’s reach and deepening its impact. For Kirk, the firm’s expansion isn’t just about numbers—it’s about continuing to serve clients with the same dedication, integrity, and diligence.
Carl Nagle
Carl Nagle has spent the last 30 years fighting for motor vehicle accident victims across North Carolina. Before he was the one going up against insurance companies, he worked on the other side—as a claims adjuster and later as an insurance company lawyer. He saw firsthand how insurers minimize payouts and deny rightful claims. That experience is what drives him today as the founder of Nagle & Associates, where he dedicates every case to making sure accident victims get the compensation they deserve.
With over $750 million recovered for North Carolina crash victims, Carl’s firm has built a reputation for relentless advocacy and results. With seven offices statewide, they have made it their mission to provide accessible legal representation at the lowest legal fee in North Carolina for injury victims—and they don’t collect a cent unless their clients win.
For Carl and his team, winning a case isn’t just about paperwork and legal arguments. They investigate each accident in depth, bringing in top-tier collision experts when necessary to build an ironclad case. Whether negotiating aggressively for the highest settlement or taking a case to trial, they refuse to settle for anything less than full and fair compensation.
Nagle & Associates’ reputation is backed by its membership in the American Bar Association, North Carolina Advocates for Justice, and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum—a testament to their excellence in the field. But for Carl, the real measure of success is seeing his clients reclaim their lives.
When it comes to securing justice for accident victims, trusting Nagle & Associates means putting your case in the hands of battle-tested professionals who don’t back down.
Rocco E. Cozza
“When I say I understand your challenges, I truly mean it.” These words reflect the dedication of Rocco Cozza, a highly respected attorney known for his practical and results-driven approach to the law. He has spent years guiding clients through the complexities of business law and estate planning, not just as a legal advisor but as someone who genuinely cares about their success and security. His approach is simple: legal support should bring clarity and confidence, not confusion and stress.
As the founder of Cozza Law Group, Rocco has built a firm known for its hands-on, client-focused approach. Whether helping business owners protect their companies or families secure their legacies, he ensures that every client feels heard, valued, and fully informed. He understands that legal decisions can shape lives, so he takes the time to break down complex matters into practical, real-world solutions.
Clients working with Rocco don’t just get a lawyer—they get a dedicated legal partner who believes in keeping them informed at every step. His commitment to excellence has earned him recognition among the Best Lawyers in America, as well as honors like the Law Firm 500 award and the Smart 50 Honoree for Innovative Leadership.
As he looks to the future, Rocco is expanding his firm’s services, particularly in estate planning and corporate advisory work. His goal? To build a firm that goes beyond legal counsel—one that provides clients with the tools and strategies to secure lasting success. With a deep understanding of the law and a client-first mindset, Rocco Cozza continues to be a powerhouse in the legal field.
Damon P. Borrelli
Damon P. Borrelli has never backed down from a fight. As a Marine Corps veteran of Desert Storm, then as a police officer for 18 years, and now as a practicing attorney and founder of Borrelli Law LLC, his career has always been about standing up for others, and today, he brings that same drive and determination into the courtroom.
Damon’s path to becoming an attorney wasn’t traditional, but it was driven by purpose. After years of witnessing how the system can fail individuals and families, he knew he could make a positive impact on those struggling in the legal system. That’s what led him to pursue his law degree at Roger Williams University School of Law. Now, as a fierce litigator, Damon uses his insider knowledge to fight against insurance companies, defend the wrongly accused, and help families navigate through some of life’s most stressful events, ensuring his clients receive the justice they deserve.
At Borrelli Law LLC, Damon and his team handle Family, Criminal, Civil, and Personal Injury Law, representing clients across Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The firm has secured life-changing results, including a $5 million award in a wrongful death case, a testament to their relentless pursuit of justice. Damon stands out not just for his wins, but for how much he truly cares about his clients. He’s seen lives change in an instant, and he knows the impact a strong legal advocate can make.
As his firm continues to grow, Damon remains dedicated to helping more clients across state lines, ensuring that no one has to navigate the legal system alone. His philosophy is simple but powerful: Reliable. Relentless. Results. For strong and reliable legal representation, contact Damon P. Borrelli at +1 401-633-6339, email dborrelli@borrelli.law, or visit borrelli.law.
Attorney Zulu Ali
Attorney Zulu Ali leads the largest Black-owned law firm in the Inland Empire and one of the top five Black-owned law firms in the nation. The Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP is a family-led powerhouse inspired by the legacies of legal giants like Charles Hamilton Houston, Thurgood Marshall, and Avon Williams Jr., focusing its practice on criminal defense, immigration, and civil rights advocacy in state and federal courts.
Founded in 2007 by Attorney Zulu Ali, the firm’s mission goes beyond conventional legal representation; it’s focus is on fighting for marginalized communities and redefining justice for those often overlooked by the system. Attorney Ali’s background as a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former police officer informs his approach to law, blending discipline and compassion with an unwavering commitment to fairness.
The firm’s influence stretches far beyond the borders of California. Attorney Zulu Ali serves as counsel for the African Court of Justice and Human Rights and the International Criminal Court, advocating for justice on a global scale. Both Attorney Zulu Ali and firm partner and daughter, Attorney Whitney Ali, were named among the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) in Law and Justice by a United Nations-supported initiative in 2022—a testament to their far-reaching impact.
Attorney Zulu Ali, a nationally recognized Top Trial Lawyer, founded the Linda Reese Harvey Stop and Frisk Youth Leadership Academy to educate at-risk youth on police encounters and the Southern California Veterans Legal Clinic to support military veterans.
Featured in Marquis Who’s Who, Attorney Ali has received the Albert Neilson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award and a 2022 Humanitarian Award, reflecting their commitment to law, advocacy, and community empowerment.
Mitchell J. Howie
Mitchell J. Howie is a renowned lawyer who is known to be a firm fighter and advocate against injustice. Licensed in Texas since 2004 and Alabama since 2010, he specializes in criminal defense, military justice, and family law. His legal journey began in the U.S. Air Force as an active-duty JAG Officer, where he handled high-stakes prosecutions, advised service members on their rights, and navigated complex legal challenges with precision.
After years of experience in the field, Mitchell established The Law Office of Mitchell J. Howie & Associates, P.L.L.C. His firm has since built a strong reputation for taking on high-stakes cases, from federal criminal defense to contentious family disputes. With extensive experience in jury and bench trials across state, federal, and military courts, he thrives under pressure. Whether defending a client in a military court-martial or fighting for someone in a highly contentious divorce case or fighting for a client facing severe criminal charges, he brings the same tenacity to every case.
Mitchell’s fearless advocacy has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition as a “2024 Mid-South Super Lawyer,” and one of “2024’s Most Influential Lawyers” by Lawyers of Distinction in The Wall Street Journal. Additionally, Mr. Howie has been recognized consistently as one of the Top 100 Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers (NTL) since 2015. In addition to practicing law, he has authored three books on military divorce, criminal defense, and civilian divorce, providing clients with expert guidance.
Mitchell J. Howie believes the law isn’t just about courtroom victories but is also about truly helping people. Through mentorship programs and hands-on training, he helps young attorneys develop the confidence and skills needed to handle high-stakes cases.
Andrew Sommerman
If you’ve been seriously injured, you need more than just a lawyer—you need someone who truly fights for you. That’s exactly what Andrew Sommerman has been doing for nearly 40 years. He’s built a reputation for taking on challenging personal injury cases, making sure his clients get the justice and compensation they deserve. For him, it’s not just about winning cases—it’s about helping people move forward.
As a founding partner of Sommerman, McCaffity, Quesada & Geisler, Andrew has shaped a law firm that puts people first. His team provides real support to those going through some of the toughest moments of their lives. Whether it’s helping families recover after a devastating accident or holding big corporations accountable, he’s committed to making a difference.
Andrew’s expertise spans across catastrophic injury, wrongful death, product liability, and medical malpractice. Over the years, he has successfully represented clients in cases involving commercial vehicle wrecks, car wrecks, traumatic brain injuries, surgical errors, defective medical devices, workplace injuries, and more. His strategic approach and deep understanding of the law allow him to craft compelling arguments that often lead to significant verdicts and settlements.
He has been named to Super Lawyers for over 20 consecutive years, an honor reserved for the top 5% of attorneys in each state. He has also been listed among D Magazine’s Best Lawyers and holds memberships in prestigious organizations like the American Board of Trial Advocates and the Texas Trial Lawyers Association.
If you’re facing a serious injury as a result of someone else’s wrongdoing, Andrew Sommerman and his team are here to fight for you. Book a consultation today and get the justice you deserve.
Tanya D. Jeffords
Tanya D. Jeffords isn’t just another lawyer—she’s a force in the courtroom, a defender of justice, and a firm believer in the power of preparation and prayer. As a Top 100 National Trial Lawyer and recipient of the State Hero Award for her work in Georgia’s accountability courts, she has made it her mission to stand up for those who might otherwise be forgotten.
Tanya is a trial lawyer and she delivers results where it matters most. She has overturned wrongful convictions, taking on corporate giants in multi-million-dollar employment lawsuits, and relentlessly defended constitutional rights. To her, justice is not a privilege but a right that must be defended.
As the founder of The Law Offices of Tanya D. Jeffords and Associates, PC, her firm specializes in civil rights violations, criminal defense, employment law and personal injury cases. But what truly sets her apart is her commitment to fairness. “Justice is not black or white but many shades of grey,” she emphasizes—a principle that drives her approach in both state and federal courts across Georgia and South Carolina.
Outside the courtroom, Tanya is equally committed to making a difference. For more than 20 years, she and her husband have led Dream Builders of America’s Youth Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people through various program initiatives to dream, plan and achieve. Her mission to stop the pipeline to prison drives her community service. When she heard at a bar luncheon that the state determined the number of prisons to build by the reading level of children in the 3rd grade, she decided to do something about that. One of her most impactful initiatives, the Frederick Douglass Mobile Reading Room, reflects her firm belief that knowledge is the foundation of justice. Don’t let what you can’t do limit what you can do. The motto she teaches the kids is “I Read to Succeed!” .
All in all, Tanya D. Jeffords is a rare advocate—one who doesn’t just fight cases but fights for people and the community. And that’s exactly why you should know her name.
Joseph P. Awad
Joseph P. Awad is a leading figure in medical malpractice and personal injury law, earning widespread recognition for his dedication to justice. For the fourth consecutive year, Joseph was named the Medical Malpractice Attorney of the Year in New York, a testament to his unparalleled litigation skills and client dedication.
Over his 25-year career, he has secured more than 150 multimillion-dollar recoveries across New York City and Long Island, including some of the state’s largest verdicts. In addition to his Top 20 national verdicts in both 2022 and 2023, Joseph has earned widespread recognition as one of the Best Lawyers in the United States for over 25 years. His legal excellence also led to his inclusion in The Wall Street Journal’s list of the 40 most influential trial lawyers in the United States in 2024.
Throughout his career, Joseph has authored significant legal publications, including Discovery of New York State Appellate Decisions and the forthcoming New York Medical Malpractice: Answers to 100 Common Questions. He also co-authored an expert witness pamphlet with a Supreme Court Justice and a law professor, further establishing his thought leadership in the field.
In addition to his professional achievements, Joseph has contributed to his community and the legal profession. He served as the Chair of the Dominican-American Society of Queens from 2008 to 2015 and has earned multiple community service awards. His pro bono efforts in assisting 9/11 victims and advocacy for Lavern’s Law have been widely commended.
Joseph’s unwavering commitment to justice and public service continues to make a lasting impact on both his clients and the broader community.
Michael Boland, Esq
Many lawyers take on personal injury cases to help their clients secure fair compensation, but only a few possess the tenacity and legal dexterity required to consistently achieve success—Michael Boland, Esq is among those rare legal professionals. He is a distinguished litigator with an exceptional ability to transform legal complexities into client victories.
Forged through rigorous legal training, Michael launched his courtroom career after earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. He is a bar-certified attorney in Pennsylvania, a qualification that has paved the way for his distinguished career advocating for victims of negligence.
As the founder of Philadelphia Injury Lawyers P.C., Michael specializes in motor vehicle collisions, medical malpractice, and workplace injury claims. In a high-stakes premises liability case, he and his team secured a $350,000 verdict, ensuring a negligent landlord was held accountable for failing to uphold tenant safety obligations. With a keen ability to construct compelling legal arguments backed by meticulous evidentiary analysis, Michael leads his firm in securing substantial financial recoveries for clients.
For Michael, the pursuit of justice is not confined to courtroom victories. He believes in giving back to society and actively channels his firm’s resources into charitable organizations that support individuals in their post-injury recovery journey. His contributions to these initiatives reflect his deep-rooted commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond legal representation.
Operating across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, Michael Boland and his team stand as relentless advocates for the injured, delivering strategic legal representation with a results-oriented approach. For legal assistance, contact Philadelphia Injury Lawyers P.C. at 215-298-9143.