As 2025 draws to a close, a new wave of attorneys is making a significant impact across various areas of law, showcasing their influence in fields ranging from corporate litigation to entertainment law, and complex civil litigation. These rising legal professionals are exemplifying a shift in the legal landscape, where younger practitioners are emerging as leaders and pushing the boundaries of traditional legal practice. They are not only redefining what it means to practice law but are also leading the charge in shaping the future of the legal profession.
Juris Review’s mid-year profile of standout rising attorneys highlights the diverse ways these emerging legal figures are contributing to the legal industry. From innovative approaches to client representation and law firm culture to their influence on industry standards, these attorneys are setting new benchmarks for success. The list of notable young attorneys includes corporate litigators, civil rights advocates, and lawyers who are combining high-profile representation with a broader sector influence, making them key figures in the legal community.
One attorney making a mark is Jordan Matthews, a business and entertainment lawyer based in California. Recognized by Forbes as a Best-In-State lawyer in 2025, Matthews has been lauded by the Los Angeles Business Journal for his growing influence in entertainment and commercial disputes. His work with major clients on high-stakes litigation cases exemplifies a trend in the legal profession where attorneys are blending traditional legal skills with modern industry strategies. Matthews, and others like him, are embracing innovative ways to serve clients, using new technologies and strategic approaches to achieve success in complex cases.
This new generation of attorneys reflects a broader shift in the legal market. As the American Bar Association reported a 10-year high in active U.S. lawyers in 2025, there is a noticeable rise in both the number of practicing attorneys and the demand for their services. Emerging attorneys are capitalizing on this trend by adapting to the changing needs of clients across sectors. Whether it’s through specialized knowledge, a focus on client service, or the ability to navigate the complex regulatory and legal landscapes of different industries, these attorneys are setting themselves apart in an increasingly competitive field.
Their rise within the profession also highlights the growing expectations placed on early- to mid-career lawyers. The legal profession today demands more from its younger practitioners, who are expected to navigate not only the legal intricacies of their practice areas but also the broader business, cultural, and technological shifts impacting their clients. As a result, many of these rising legal stars have developed a unique blend of skills that allow them to address the complex and multifaceted needs of their clients.
The influence of these emerging attorneys is also being felt in law firms, where their innovative approaches to practice and leadership are beginning to reshape firm culture. These lawyers are not only contributing to the development of new legal strategies but also fostering more inclusive, forward-thinking work environments. Their leadership is helping to create a new generation of law firms that are more agile, client-focused, and attuned to the demands of a rapidly changing legal landscape.
As the legal profession continues to evolve, these emerging attorneys are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping its future. Their ability to blend traditional legal expertise with modern, industry-specific strategies sets them apart as influential figures in both the legal and business communities. As we move into 2026, the contributions of these rising attorneys will continue to drive the profession forward, setting the stage for a new era of legal practice.
