John E. Lichtenstein, founding attorney of Lichtenstein Law Group, has been named the 2027 Best Lawyers® 'Lawyer of the Year' for both Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Criminal Defense: General Practice in the Roanoke region. This prestigious recognition, announced on August 20, 2026, adds to a distinguished record of peer-reviewed honors for the Virginia trial attorney.
The 'Lawyer of the Year' designation is the highest accolade bestowed by Best Lawyers, awarded to only one attorney per practice area and geographic region annually. It is determined through a rigorous evaluation process that relies on peer feedback, reflecting the professional respect and integrity an attorney has earned among fellow members of the bar. Notably, attorneys cannot pay for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America, making the honor a genuine testament to legal excellence.
Mr. Lichtenstein expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, 'This award is especially meaningful because it comes from attorneys who know the legal profession best. It reflects the hard work, meticulous case preparation, and dedication of our entire team to helping clients who face life-changing legal challenges.'
Since his first inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America in 2006, Mr. Lichtenstein has been named 'Lawyer of the Year' 16 times in four different practice areas: Criminal Defense: General Practice (2019, 2023, 2025, 2027), Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs (2016, 2018, 2024, 2027), Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs (2013, 2015, 2022, 2026), and Criminal Defense (2011, 2014, 2020, 2024). His consistent recognition across multiple areas underscores his versatility and deep expertise.
Beyond these honors, Mr. Lichtenstein continues to be listed in The Best Lawyers in America for Bet-the-Company Litigation, Criminal Defense: General Practice, Criminal Defense, and Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs. His practice spans high-stakes litigation in state and federal courts, including personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, product liability, and criminal defense.
His professional leadership includes serving as a former President of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association and chairing the Virginia State Bar Criminal Law Section. He is a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, and the American Board of Criminal Lawyers, reflecting his standing among the nation's top trial attorneys.
Lichtenstein Law Group, with nearly 100 years of combined legal experience, handles complex litigation in Virginia, including personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, criminal defense, civil rights, and business torts. The firm's client-centered approach and trial expertise have made it a trusted resource for individuals facing significant legal challenges.
This latest recognition not only highlights Mr. Lichtenstein's individual achievements but also reinforces the firm's reputation for excellence in advocating for plaintiffs and defendants alike. As the legal community acknowledges his contributions, clients in Roanoke and across Virginia continue to benefit from his dedicated representation.
