John E. Lichtenstein, founding attorney of Lichtenstein Law Group, has been named the 2027 Best Lawyers® "Lawyer of the Year" for Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Criminal Defense: General Practice in the Roanoke region. This recognition, announced on August 20, 2026, adds to a long list of honors from the peer-reviewed publication, which selects attorneys based on comprehensive evaluations by their peers. Lawyers do not pay for inclusion, and selection reflects professionalism, integrity, and respect among fellow bar members.
The "Lawyer of the Year" designation is the publication's highest honor, awarded to only one lawyer in each practice area and region annually, based on the highest overall peer ratings. "This award is especially meaningful because it comes from attorneys who know the legal profession best," said Lichtenstein. "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 2006, Lichtenstein has been named "Lawyer of the Year" in Roanoke 16 times across four 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 highlights his versatility and expertise.
In addition to these honors, 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 decades-long career in Virginia has established him as a trial attorney handling high-stakes litigation in state and federal courts, including personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, product liability, and criminal defense.
Lichtenstein has also served as President of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association and chaired 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. These roles underscore his leadership and commitment to the legal profession.
The recognition from Best Lawyers is significant because it comes from peers who directly observe the quality of legal work. For clients, this distinction signals a lawyer with a proven track record in complex litigation. For the legal community, it highlights the importance of peer evaluation in maintaining professional standards.
Lichtenstein Law Group, founded by Lichtenstein, brings nearly 100 years of combined legal experience to clients across Virginia. The firm handles cases in state and federal courts, including personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, criminal defense, civil rights, and business torts. With a client-centered approach, the firm combines extensive trial experience with personalized attention.
For more information about Lichtenstein Law Group, visit their website or call (540) 343-9711.
