The 49 lawyers included on this list are those that we decided—after a rigorous evaluation process—are emblematic of a new wave of leadership in the New Jersey legal profession.

Our basic criteria for selection of these standout lawyers are that they have developed practice niches, amassed strong books of business, demonstrated leadership qualities, shown expertise in litigation or transactional work and committed themselves to pro bono, charitable and professional volunteer work. All these factors tend to distinguish an individual among his or her peers and signal greater accomplishments ahead.