Recognizing the Top Lawyers of 2025

Like any industry, the legal field requires proficiency, honesty, and unyielding commitment. 2025’s most distinguished lawyers have not only learned the intricacies of the law as it is, but are, with their leadership and foresight, actively changing it. These lawyers establish new benchmarks by turning challenges into opportunities with stringent ethical constraints marking their legacy as a true leader. Their impact continues to advocate for an era that endorses justice, pro-innovation, and reinforcement of the goals set for the future. 

Edward F. Cohn 

Edward F. Cohn is a dedicated attorney with over 22 years of experience under his belt and many accomplishments throughout his career. He has built a strong reputation for securing results in cases that others may overlook, ensuring his clients receive the defense they deserve. 

At Edward F. Cohn, Attorney at Law, Edward’s mission is clear, "every client deserves an attorney who will fight for them.” He is fiercely protective when dealing with his clients, especially in cases of harassment through wrongful restraining orders and even in the injunctions protection orders.  

Focusing primarily on the most complicated aspects of various cases, he has been awarded top accolades in his field for his unparalleled commitment to excellence, including the top AV Preeminent rating, which was previously held by fewer than 10% of attorneys in the country. Along with these honors, he has also won the AVVO Client Choice Award in 2020 and 2024 and the Platinum Client Choice Award from Lawyers.com.

In addition to his work, Edward has volunteered at nursing homes in Boston and is a licensed foster parent in Arizona, going on to prove his values to make an incredible difference. Edward’s commitment to the people around him goes well beyond the courtroom. His goal is simple: keep fighting for justice and standing up for those who need it most. 

As he continues to grow in his career, Edward stays dedicated to representing his clients and fighting for justice. His work is fueled by both expertise and kindness, which makes him a dependable advocate both in and out of the courtroom.  

Richard L. Denney 

When it comes to consumer safety, Richard L. Denney is a respected name in the legal community. Richard is a senior partner at Denney, Barrett, & Robinson in Norman, Oklahoma, where he has represented clients in catastrophic personal injury and product liability cases for nearly four decades. His extensive experience has helped him secure substantial seven figure and many multimillion dollar verdicts, in many different jurisdictions, in both state and federal courts throughout the United States. 

Richard has a track record of holding large companies liable for their dangerous and defective products. He has overseen notorious legal battles revolving around car malfunctions, as well as failures in seatbelt and tire safety, winning his clients justice and improving industry safety standards. It was his effort that, coupled with legal victories, implemented major changes in the safety regulations of the automotive and tire industries, proving that Richard’s efforts extended well beyond the courtroom. 

In addition to his private practice, Richard is active socially as a member of public organizations like the American Association for Justice (AAJ). He is always ready to educate his associates and, as always, fights for the interests of the people. He is also a member of other legal professional organizations where he continues to teach other lawyers and advocates on the principles of consumer rights. 

Given these countless years of experience and commitment, Richard still tries to protect consumers and ensure justice for those affected by hazardous products. 

Maribel J. Allen Esq. 

Based in New Jersey, Maribel J. Allen holds the belief that clients deserve more than standard legal representation; they deserve a personalized strategy, an innovative outlook, and a legal advocate who truly listens. She realizes that every legal fight is different and therefore requires a thoughtful and personal strategy rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. 

At the beginning of her legal career, Maribel set out to start a law firm where trust, integrity, and relationships with the clients came first. She observed how countless individuals felt overwhelmed by the legal system, often treated as just another case file. Her goal was always to create an ecosystem that puts the client above all else. To bring this vision to life, she founded The Allen Law Firm, LLC—ensuring that clients are always well listened, respected, and valued while putting their interests first. 

From the courtroom to the conference room, Maribel has always embraced the bold. Her hard-earned years transformed into respect and reputation for her in criminal law, immigration, and family law. Her unwavering devotion to her clients has won her the AVVO Client’s Choice Award, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. She has also been recognized by The National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys as one of the Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in New Jersey. 

Looking ahead, Maribel is committed to honing her legal expertise and transforming The Allen Law Firm, LLC into one of the most sought-after law firms in New Jersey. 

Derek Martin 

If you’ve ever received a traffic ticket or been charged with a DUI, you don’t have to handle it alone—Derek Martin and his team at Driver Defense Team have your back. As the founder of one of Illinois’ top traffic and DUI law firms, Martin has helped thousands of clients across Chicagoland fight for the best possible results, ensuring they never have to navigate the legal system on their own. 

The Driver Defense Team is built on servicing clients during some of their most stressful times, which includes DUI charges, traffic violations, or dealing with a suspended license. They prioritize clear communication, proactive updates, and client transparency, so every individual knows exactly what’s happening with their case.  

Their client-first approach has led to national recognition. Not only has the Driver Defense Team been named to The Inc 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in the United States, but based on their overall ranking of #1553, they are also recognized among the fastest-growing law firms in the country. This development has stemmed out of the firm’s devotion to trust, results, and outworking all of their competitors on behalf of their clients. 

More than just a law firm, Driver Defense Team is a dedicated team of 25 legal professionals leveraging modern legal technology to build strong defenses and secure favorable case resolutions. They offer flexible payment plans, ensuring clients receive top-tier defense without financial strain. 

Through his efforts, new advances, and focus on the client, Derek Martin and Driver Defense Team continue to reshape the legal landscape—one case at a time. 

Ronald L. Bell 

With over 44 years of experience, Ronald L. Bell has built a distinguished career as a trial attorney, legal strategist, and advocate. As the founder of Ronald L. Bell & Associates, P.C., he has successfully represented clients in high-stakes litigation, family law, and criminal defense. 

Ronald’s journey in the legal space started when he was appointed as the Assistant Illinois Attorney General. In a record time, he established himself as the go-to attorney. He was also fortunate enough to present a motion before the Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Ronald achieved significant wins before the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals and the Illinois Supreme Court. He was later appointed as Special Prosecutor in DuPage County and named Editor of the John Marshall Law Review.  

For 20 years, Ronald served as Chief Legal Counsel for one of the largest management consulting firms in the U.S., successfully litigating cases nationwide. He has secured multi-million-dollar settlements in personal injury, medical malpractice, and civil litigation and has successfully defended felony cases, including those involving life imprisonment. 

Dedicated to family law and child custody for over 46 years, Ronald has handled complex divorces and high-net-worth cases. He is also the author of Understanding Divorce in Illinois, a comprehensive guide for families navigating the legal system. To learn more, visit www.Bestlakecountylawyer.com. 

Disclaimer: 

This article is meant solely for general informational purposes and does not offer any legal advice. Since each legal case is unique and laws differ across states, it is recommended to consult a lawyer who can address your particular situation.