How Are Super Lawyers Chosen?
In the legal world, the title “Super Lawyer” is highly coveted and respected. Being recognized as a Super Lawyer signifies a high level of professional achievement and peer recognition. But how exactly are these exceptional attorneys chosen? In this article, we will delve into the selection process behind Super Lawyers and answer frequently asked questions regarding this prestigious recognition.
Super Lawyers is a rating service that evaluates outstanding lawyers across various practice areas. The selection process involves a comprehensive, patented methodology that includes peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations. Let’s explore each step of the process in detail:
1. Nomination: The Super Lawyers selection process begins with nominations. Lawyers can nominate their peers who they believe have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields. Self-nominations are not accepted, ensuring the integrity and credibility of the process.
2. Independent research: After receiving nominations, Super Lawyers undertakes a rigorous independent research process. This involves evaluating the candidates based on twelve indicators of professional achievement and recognition. These indicators include verdicts and settlements, honors and awards, bar or professional activity, and pro bono and community service.
3. Peer evaluation: In the next stage, candidates are evaluated by their peers within their practice area. An attorney-led research team sends surveys to lawyers who have firsthand experience working with the candidates. The survey asks them to rate the candidates based on their professional abilities and accomplishments.
4. Final selection: Based on the nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations, the top candidates are selected as Super Lawyers. The final list represents no more than 5% of lawyers in each state. Additionally, a Rising Stars list is also created, recognizing outstanding attorneys who are 40 years old or younger or have been practicing for ten years or less. The Rising Stars list represents no more than 2.5% of lawyers in each state.
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about Super Lawyers:
Q: Can an attorney campaign or pay to be selected as a Super Lawyer?
A: No, Super Lawyers does not allow attorneys to campaign or pay for their selection. The process is entirely objective and based on a combination of peer recognition and independent research.
Q: Can an attorney decline their Super Lawyers recognition?
A: Yes, attorneys can decline the recognition if they wish to do so. Super Lawyers respects the decision of any attorney who chooses not to be included in their list.
Q: Can an attorney who has been selected as a Super Lawyer be selected again in subsequent years?
A: Yes, attorneys can be selected as Super Lawyers in multiple years. However, they must undergo the same rigorous selection process each year to ensure they continue to meet the high standards of the Super Lawyers criteria.
Q: Are Super Lawyers ratings available to the public?
A: Yes, Super Lawyers ratings are accessible to the public. They are published annually both in printed magazines and online directories. This allows individuals seeking legal representation to find highly regarded attorneys in their area.
Q: Is Super Lawyers recognition the only measure of an attorney’s competence?
A: No, Super Lawyers recognition is just one of many factors to consider when evaluating an attorney’s competence. It is essential to conduct thorough research, read client reviews, and personally meet with attorneys before making a final decision.
In conclusion, Super Lawyers is a prestigious recognition that highlights exceptional attorneys in various practice areas. The selection process involves peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations to identify the top legal professionals. Attorneys cannot campaign or pay for their selection, ensuring an objective and unbiased process. Super Lawyers ratings are available to the public, aiding individuals in finding highly skilled lawyers. However, it is crucial to consider other factors alongside Super Lawyers recognition when choosing legal representation.