Forbes Opens Nominations for America’s Top 250 Lawyers 2025

Forbes has officially opened nominations for its highly anticipated 2025 list of America’s Top 250 Lawyers, spotlighting legal professionals who exemplify excellence, leadership, and meaningful impact within the U.S. legal landscape.

Now in its second year, the list seeks to recognize attorneys in private practice whose accomplishments have left a lasting mark—whether in the courtroom, in legal scholarship, or as champions of justice in their respective communities. Nominees are expected to hold the highest respect among peers, clients, judges, and broader society.

Unlike many industry rankings, the Top 250 Lawyers list is entirely merit-based. There are no fees, no advertising requirements, and no pay-for-play inclusions. Candidates are evaluated on qualitative standards such as courtroom success, legal influence, and professional leadership.

The nomination process is open to the public, allowing legal professionals, clients, colleagues, and community leaders to put forward names of those who deserve this recognition. Forbes emphasizes that attorneys from all practice areas—from corporate and criminal defense to civil rights and intellectual property—are eligible.

The nomination form must be submitted by July 18, 2025. Finalists will be vetted and selected by Forbes’ editorial staff, and nominees advancing in the process may be asked to provide additional information.

Any inquiries regarding the list or nomination process can be directed to lawyerlist@forbes.com.

The final Top 250 Lawyers list is expected to be released in Fall 2025.