Top Outstanding Lawyers to Know About

In the ever-changing landscape of law, some individuals rise above the rest, mastering their craft while redefining advocacy, leadership, and inspiration. The Top Outstanding Lawyers to Know About celebrates professionals setting new standards and leaving a profound impact on their clients, communities, and the legal system. 

Kevin M. Rowe 

Kevin M. Rowe is a highly respected figure in personal injury law, having made a significant impact as a co-founder of Lerner & Rowe Injury Attorneys and Lerner & Rowe Law Group. Under Kevin's co-leadership, these two distinct law firms have evolved into trusted legal sources—one across Arizona and the other on a national scale.

With over 25 years of legal experience and licenses to practice law in five states, Kevin is recognized for his ability to navigate the most challenging cases. His remarkable record includes securing significant settlements for clients who have endured life-altering injuries and losses caused by recklessness and negligence, totaling billions of dollars.  

Kevin’s dedication to the legal profession has earned him numerous accolades. He is a long-standing member of the Elite Lawyers of America, and, for nine consecutive years, his firm has been voted Best Personal Injury Law Firm in AZ Foothill Magazine’s annual readers’ poll. Additionally, his prestigious recognition by The Fellows of the American Bar Foundation (ABF) places him among the top 1% of lawyers in the country. 

Beyond the courtroom, Kevin’s philanthropic efforts are equally noteworthy. Through the “Lerner & Rowe Gives Back” foundation, he supports first responders, veterans, and at-risk communities, contributing millions to local charities. His commitment to giving back has earned him titles such as Arizona’s Most Influential Leader and Philanthropic Business Leader of the Year. 

Kevin M. Rowe is admired both for his legal prowess and his community impact, embodying a blend of professional excellence and humanitarian values. 

Liliana Bakayoko 

With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Liliana Bakayoko stands as a foremost authority in international business law. Her adeptness in navigating complex transactions equips businesses with comprehensive legal solutions, enabling them to excel in a multifaceted regulatory environment. 

At her firm Liliana Bakayoko, she offers a wide-ranging suite of services, including specialized legal counsel on digital transformation and safeguarding intellectual property. She also supports businesses with transaction structuring, international expansion, and dispute resolution through mediation, arbitration, and litigation. 

In addition to her valuable expertise, what sets Liliana apart is her innovative perspective, promoting the concept of "the positive perception of the law." This forward-thinking philosophy encourages enterprises to view legal frameworks as vital enablers of growth and strategic enhancement. Her work goes beyond law; she actively drives societal change by fostering innovation, protecting human rights, and evolving legal norms that support business and community development. 

Liliana’s active engagement in pivotal discussions regarding neuro rights and AI, along with her contributions to legal education, positions her at the forefront of emerging legal paradigms. Her revolutionary efforts are exemplified by numerous recognitions, including "Top International Business Lawyer 2024," "Business Lawyer of the Year—Global," and "Best International Business Lawyer—France 2024."  

As a former law professor with a Doctor of Law, Liliana brings deep theoretical knowledge and practical expertise to her clients, helping businesses thrive across borders. Her firm’s primary goal is to empower businesses in France, Europe, and the USA to leverage legal tools for success in the digital age. 

Visit Liliana Bakayoko’s website for expert solutions that propel your business forward. 

Craig Fontaine Ashton 

“Justice delayed is justice denied.” Craig Fontaine Ashton embodies this powerful truth in his tireless advocacy for the injured in California. As co-founder of Ashton & Price, LLP, he doesn't just navigate legal battles; he transforms them into opportunities for healing. 

With a family legacy rooted in American history—his 6th-generation great uncle being George Washington—Craig developed a strong sense of purpose early on. A graduate of UC Berkeley, and Pepperdine School of Law, he gained invaluable experience working with esteemed mentors and honing his expertise in personal injury law. 

Driven by an indomitable spirit, Craig has led Ashton & Price, LLP, to secure over $250 million in settlements and verdicts, establishing the firm as a powerhouse in California’s personal injury law. 

He has earned prestigious titles such as North America’s Attorney of the Year and an induction into the President’s Circle for Top Attorneys. These accolades are more than mere awards; they are milestones in a relentless quest for justice. 

Craig Ashton is not only a powerhouse in the courtroom, but also on the racecourse. A five-time Ironman triathlon finisher, Craig has completed some of the most grueling endurance races in the world, including Ironman events in New Zealand, Australia, Mexico, and Spain. These races consist of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon run—all to be completed within 17 hours. His best finish came in Barcelona, where he completed the race in an impressive 12 hours and 9 minutes. 

Lonnie D. Johnson 

There are attorneys, and then there’s Lonnie D. Johnson. 17 consecutive years as an Indiana Super Lawyer says it all. Less than 5% of his peers achieve this recognition, and he’s turned it into a habit. The reason? He’s not just in the game. He’s mastering it. 

Experience like Lonnie’s isn’t built overnight. It’s earned through three decades of grit and over 100 hard-fought mediations. Indiana’s toughest cases have his name on them. His strategies are both innovative and effective, and his determination is rock-solid. 

Lonnie has reshaped Indiana’s legal community with his leadership. As Chair of the Indiana State Bar Association’s Litigation Section, he earned the respected Civility Award. On a national level, his presence is powerful. He’s a leader in the Association of Defense Trial Attorneys and a force in the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel. 

At Clendening Johnson & Bohrer, P.C., Lonnie and his team deliver a rare blend—big-firm muscle with small-firm focus. Whether they’re shielding businesses or defending individual rights, clients know they’re in the hands of trusted professionals. 

And beyond his legal brilliance? Lonnie’s dedication to mentoring future legal stars and giving back to the community proves that being the best is about more than winning cases—it’s about making an impact that lasts. All said and done, Lonnie D. Johnson has set the bar high. 

Elektra Yao, The Artist Visa Lawyer 

When it comes to navigating the complex world of U.S. immigration law for artists and creatives, Elektra Yao shines as a beacon of expertise, dedication, and tech-forward legal services. As the founder of Yao Law Group, a boutique law firm specializing in Artist Visas and Green Cards for international artists and creatives, Elektra has earned a reputation for winning the toughest artists cases. 

Representing clients ranging from K-pop stars and TikTok influencers to emerging actors, Elektra is renowned for deconstructing the law and presenting her clients' artistry to win cases. By navigating the complexities of O-1, EB-1A, and EB-2 visas, she is actively shaping the US artist landscape. Her approach blends precision and personalization, crafting strategies that drive each client’s success. 

With over a decade of experience in film, TV, and theatre, she is dedicated to empowering artists and creatives. Her accolades include the Super Lawyers Rising Star Award annually since 2018, the Women in Law Award, and the Titan Silver Award for Business of the Year. 

In addition to her recognition, Elektra is a dedicated mentor to young lawyers and women entrepreneurs, further solidifying her reputation as a respected leader in her field. She mentors women entrepreneurs through the WE Business Network for the City of New York and supports young attorneys with the New York City Bar Association. 

Through her firm and personal initiatives, Elektra’s vision is to provide the guidance and opportunities artists need to thrive and create in the US, while fostering growth and making lasting, meaningful changes. 

Disclaimer: 

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. The publisher does not endorse or recommend any specific financial products or services. Readers should perform their own research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.