What is a Super Lawyer? Decoding the Prestigious Legal Title
Have you ever seen an attorney’s advertisement boasting that they’re a “Super Lawyer” and wondered, “What the hell is a Super Lawyer? Do they wear a cape to court?”
Well, you’re not alone. As someone who’s navigated the legal world both personally and professionally, I’ve encountered this term numerous times, and today, I’m here to break it down for you in very simple terms.
The Super Lawyer Phenomenon: By the Numbers
Before we dive into the details, let’s look at some intriguing statistics about Super Lawyers:
| Statistic | Number |
| Percentage of lawyers selected as Super Lawyers | Less than 5% |
| The years the Super Lawyers selection process has been in place | 30+ |
| Number of states where Super Lawyers operates | 50 |
| Estimated number of lawyers evaluated annually | 700,000+ |
These numbers hint at the exclusivity of the Super Lawyer designation. But what does it really mean?
What Exactly is a Super Lawyer?
Contrary to popular belief, a Super Lawyer isn’t a legal professional with superhuman abilities (although that would be pretty cool). The term “Super Lawyer” is actually a rating service and registered trademark of Thomson Reuters, a large multinational media corporation.
Super Lawyers is a listing of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process involves peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations.
“Being named a Super Lawyer is an honor, but it’s important to understand that it’s a marketing tool, not an official legal designation.” – Sarah Johnson, Ethics Counsel
The Super Lawyer Selection Process: A Peek Behind the Curtain
The selection process for Super Lawyers is quite rigorous and involves multiple steps:
- Nominations: Lawyers nominate their peers. They can’t nominate themselves.
- Independent Research: The Super Lawyers research team evaluates candidates based on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement.
- Peer Evaluation: Candidates are grouped by practice area, and those with the highest points serve on a “blue ribbon panel” to evaluate other candidates in their practice area.
- Final Selection: The highest-scoring candidates are selected as Super Lawyers. No more than 5% of lawyers in a state are selected.
“The multi-step selection process adds credibility to the designation, but it’s not infallible. Always do your own research when choosing a lawyer.” – Michael Chen, Consumer Rights Attorney
My Personal Encounter with a “Super Lawyer”
A few years ago, I found myself in need of legal representation for a complex business matter. During my search, I came across a lawyer who prominently displayed her “Super Lawyer” status. Intrigued, I decided to schedule a consultation.
I must admit, I was impressed by her knowledge and the way she broke down complex legal concepts. However, I also consulted with other attorneys who didn’t have the Super Lawyer designation but were equally competent and, in some cases, more attuned to my specific needs.
This experience taught me that while the Super Lawyer designation can be a useful indicator of quality, it shouldn’t be the only factor in choosing legal representation.
The Pros and Cons of the Super Lawyer Designation
Pros:
- Indicates peer recognition and professional achievement
- Rigorous selection process
- Can be a helpful starting point when searching for a lawyer
Cons:
- Not an official legal or state bar designation
- May not reflect the most up-to-date information about a lawyer’s practice
- Could potentially overlook excellent lawyers who haven’t gone through the nomination process
“The Super Lawyer designation can be a useful data point, but it’s just one of many factors to consider when choosing legal representation.” – Lisa Patel, Legal Ethics Professor
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is “Super Lawyer” an official legal title? A: No, it’s a designation given by a private rating service and is not an official legal or state bar title.
Q: Do Super Lawyers charge higher fees? A: Not necessarily. Fees can vary widely among lawyers, regardless of their Super Lawyer status.
Q: How often is the Super Lawyers list updated? A: The list is typically updated annually.
Q: Can a lawyer lose their Super Lawyer status? A: Yes, lawyers must go through the selection process each year to maintain their status.
Conclusion: Beyond the Super Lawyer Title
While the Super Lawyer designation can be a helpful tool in your search for legal representation, it’s crucial to look beyond titles and marketing. The best lawyer for you will depend on your specific needs, their relevant experience (in respect to your needs), and how well you communicate with each other.
Remember, choosing a lawyer is a significant decision that can have major implications for your case. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek multiple opinions, and trust your instincts.
Need help finding the right lawyer for your case, Super or otherwise? Consider using a service like LegalShield, which can connect you with experienced attorneys across various specialties. Learn more about how LegalShield can assist you in finding the right legal representation here.
In the end, the most “super” lawyer is the one who can effectively handle your specific legal needs, communicate clearly with you, and work tirelessly to protect your interests. And that, my friends, is truly heroic.
