In today’s globalized world, the demand for exceptional legal representation has never been greater. The need for top-tier lawyers is undeniable, whether individuals are seeking expert advice or societies rely on the best legal minds. Are you curious, about discovering who the best lawyers in the world are?
I assure you something exciting awaits you! This article introduces you to the 15 best lawyers in the world with exceptional skills, notable achievements, and international influence. From American giants like John Branca, Willie E. Gary, and Amal Clooney to globally recognized figures such as Harish Salve and Kirsten Gillibrand, we’ll explore the remarkable careers of these legal professionals. Without any further ado, let’s dive in!
15 Best Lawyers in the World
These are the 15 best lawyers in the world with high-profile clients and experience:
1. Willie E. Gary: The Giant Killer
Willie E. Gary, an eminent American attorney born on July 12, 1947, tops our list of the best lawyers in the world. Hailing from Eastman, Georgia, Gary attended Shaw University on a football scholarship before graduating in 1971. He later earned his Juris Doctor degree from North Carolina Central University School of Law. Renowned as “The Giant Killer,” Gary secured a groundbreaking $240 million verdict against the multinational conglomerate Disney.
Additionally, he filed a lawsuit against Canadian businessman Raymond Loewen, holding him accountable for breaching a contractual agreement with Mississippi funeral home operator Jeremiah Joseph O’Keffe. Recognized for his exceptional legal prowess, Gary received the prestigious Spirit of Excellence award from the American Bar Association in 2019.
2. John Branca: The Entertainment Law Maestro
John Branca, an accomplished American entertainment attorney, has made a name for himself as one of the premier legal minds worldwide. Born December 11, 1950, in Bronxville, New York – Branca’s journey is marked by outstanding legal expertise and unwavering dedication.
Once in Los Angeles, Branca’s passion for music and the arts led him to form a rock band; but his legal acumen made him truly unique; after graduating from the University of California Los Angeles School of Law he quickly rose to become one of the leading legal minds of his day.
Branca rose to global prominence through his role as Michael Jackson’s career manager, helping ensure his acquisition of ATV Music Publishing following his death from cancer. Today, his influence can still be felt as co-executor of Michael Jackson’s estate, guaranteeing its preservation for future generations of artists and fans.
3. Judith Susan Sheindlin: The Voice of Justice
If you’ve ever tuned in to the popular American arbitration-based reality court show, Judge Judy, you’re already familiar with Judith Susan Sheindlin. Judge Judy is revered for her no-nonsense approach and tireless dedication to justice, becoming an iconic figure within the legal world. Born October 21st, 1942 in Brooklyn New York, Sheindlin began her rise to stardom by passing the New York state bar exam with flying colours.
After working as a corporate lawyer for a cosmetic firm, Sheindlin transitioned into the New York family court system where she presided over cases involving domestic violence, juvenile offenders, and child abuse. Her commitment to upholding the law and ensuring fair outcomes earned her widespread acclaim and admiration from those around her.
Sheindlin has made an impactful mark beyond the courtroom as one of the longest-serving television arbitrators for courtroom-themed programming history, inspiring and empowering countless individuals with her sharp wit, wisdom, and commitment to justice.
4. Harish Salve: The Esteemed Indian Legal Luminary
Harish Salve, a renowned senior barrister from India, left an indelible mark on the legal landscape through his incredible services as the nation’s solicitor general from 1999 to 2003. Salve is known for his expert legal representation before India’s highest court; working closely with former attorney general Soli Sorabjee. Salve’s tenure played an invaluable role in shaping India’s legal environment.
Salve’s achievements extend well beyond India; his outstanding legal skills earned him admission to the English Bar in 2013. As a testament to this outstanding achievement and impactful legal career, Indian Today magazine recognized him as one of India’s 50 Most Influential Individuals.
Harish Salve’s career demonstrates his unwavering dedication to justice, legal excellence and tireless advocating on his client’s behalf. Thanks to his vast experience and impressive track record, Harish continues to shape the future of the legal profession in India and beyond.
5. Amal Clooney: Bridging Human Rights and Law
Amal Clooney was born on February 3 in Lebanon and raised in England, eventually leaping across to become one of the best lawyers in the world. Her client list boasts former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed, former Ukrainian PM Yulia Tymoshenko, Iraqi activist Nadia Murad and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange as clients; Clooney’s focus lies on high-profile human rights cases. She studied law at St Hugh’s College Oxford and New York University School of Law before marrying actor George Clooney cementing her reputation further as one of best lawyers in the world.
6. Richard Scruggs: A Legal Trailblazer Redefining Advocacy
Richard F. “Dickie” Scruggs, professionally known as Richard Scruggs, is an American Naval Aviator and trial lawyer before he was disbarred in 2012. Scruggs made waves with his legal career when his first case involved successfully suing asbestos manufacturers on behalf of workers critically ill from asbestos exposure. Additionally, Richard represented Mississippi during its tobacco litigation during the 90s.
Richard was also reported as representing hundreds of homeowners following Hurricane Irma against insurance companies, representing them in lawsuits against insurers against them, and representing numerous cases he became known as one of the best lawyers in the world.
7. Joe Jamail: The Unparalleled Legal Luminary
Joseph Dahr Jamail Jr, commonly referred to as Joe Jamail was an American lawyer and businessman who, upon his death, became known as one of America’s wealthiest lawyers – often dubbed as the “King of Torts”. Forbes estimated Joe to be worth an estimated net worth of $1.7 billion; due to his aggressive and persuasive personality which was channeled into his career pursuits, he enjoyed tremendous success throughout his life’s journey.
Joe first made headlines for representing Pennzoil in their lawsuit against Texaco, winning it and earning estimated damages estimated to be in the range of $335 Million. After attending the University of Texas School of Law he secured an amazing legal degree making him one of the best lawyers in the world.
8. Robert Shapiro: The High-Profile Defense Attorney
Robert Leslie Shapiro is an esteemed American attorney born September 2nd, 1942 who made a significant mark on the legal profession through his many achievements, most notably being part of O.J. Simpson’s defense team.
Shapiro became a key member of Simpson’s “Dream Team”, playing an instrumental role in defending him against murder charges. After attending Loyola Law School and UCLA, he received admission into the California State Bar in 1969. His outstanding legal expertise encompasses an impressive clientele including prominent figures like the Kardashians, Johnny Carson, and F. Lee Bailey. As a result of his amazing skills and achievements, Shapiro has established himself among the best lawyers in the world.
9. Alan Dershowitz: The Legal Scholar
Alan Dershowitz, a lawyer renowned for his invaluable contributions, to both constitutional and criminal law was born on September 1, 1938. He studied at Brooklyn College earning his Bachelor of Arts degree. Later he excelled at Yale Law School, where he held the position of editor, for the Yale Law Journal. He is widely recognized for his talent and has successfully represented high-profile clients achieving positive results in their cases.
His extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to upholding justice have firmly established him as one of the best lawyers in the world. Throughout his career, Dershowitz has represented well-known individuals such, as Mike Tyson, Patty Hearst, Julian Assange and Jim Bakker.
10. Jose Baez: Fearless Advocate for Justice
Jose Baez, an American criminal defense lawyer, was born on September 17, 1970. He is generally respected for his resolute backing for those having to deal with penalties. With immaculate court abilities and equity energy, Baez has laid down a good foundation for himself among the world’s chief legal counsellors. He attended Miami Dade Community College before transferring to Florida State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Later he procured his Juris Specialist from St Thomas College School of Regulation.
Baez’s three years of service in the U.S. Navy provided him with invaluable insight when representing clients, earning respect and admiration from legal peers alike. His relentless dedication to justice and compelling courtroom presence make him a true legal champion in criminal defense cases.
11. Lynn Toler: The Respected Jurist
Lynn Toler, an esteemed American attorney born October 25th, 1959 has made her mark as an esteemed judge, arbitrator, and television host. After earning a Bachelor of English and American literature at Harvard University in 1981 and going on to attain her Juris Doctor from the University of Pennsylvania Law School subsequently that year; Toler later gained prominence on the Power of Attorney TV show; later acting as arbitrating judge on Divorce Court further cemented her as one of best lawyers in the world.
12. Kirsten Gillibrand: The Lawyer Turned Senator
Kirsten Elizabeth Gillibrand, an American politician and attorney born December 9th, 1966 was one of the key contributors in legal history. From upstate New York, Gillibrand pursued her higher education at Dartmouth College where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree before continuing at UCLA School of Law where she obtained a Juris Doctorate. By 1991 she had passed the bar exam and started working at Davis Polk & Wardwell based out of Manhattan New York.
Gillibrand’s strong commitment to public service propelled her on an exciting path as clerk of the late Judge Roger Miner of the USCofA for Albany Circuit. Now serving as a senator from New York state in the United States, she tirelessly advocates for justice while becoming one of the best lawyers in the world.
13. Gloria Allred: The Champion of Women’s Rights
Gloria Allred, an American attorney born July 3rd, 1941 has become famous for her unwavering commitment to women’s rights and advocating on their behalf against any form of discrimination. Over her long and distinguished career she has taken part in many major cases representing prominent clients – most notable of these cases was when Gloria represented women who accused Donald Trump of sexual assault and harassment during his 2016 presidential campaign.
Allred held press conferences alongside some of Trump’s accusers to urge him to address them and face justice for what had been claimed against him. Although these accusations did not hinder Trump’s election campaign, Allred’s involvement brought back to public attention the issue of sexual misconduct and harassment – reinforcing her status as an outspoken champion for women’s rights even further.
14. Karim Khan: The Advocate for International Justice
Karim Khan, born on December 26th, 1960 is a barrister and prosecutor, from Britain who has made contributions to the field of international justice. Currently serving as the Prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC) Khan plays a role, in investigating and prosecuting individuals who are accused of committing genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.
His profound knowledge of both law and criminal justice practices enables him to hold perpetrators accountable and seek justice for the victims. Khans’ unwavering dedication to upholding laws establishes him as one of the leading professionals working tirelessly towards achieving international justice.
15. Mary Jo White: The Respected Legal Enforcer
Mary Jo White, a lawyer born on December 27th, 1947 is widely recognized for her career, in law enforcement. She served as the United States Attorney for the New York Southern District from 1993 to 2002 overseeing cases involving terrorism and prosecuting fraud. As the chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2013 to 2017, White quickly established herself as one of the experts globally displaying unwavering commitment and exceptional proficiency in intricate legal matters.
Her pivotal role in prosecuting cases connected to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, the 1998 Embassy bombings and Bernie Madoffs financial fraud scheme earned her respect and admiration, within the community.
Conclusion
In the dynamic and complex realm of law, these 15 lawyers stand out as the best lawyers in the world, shaping the course of justice on a global scale. From their groundbreaking victories to their unrelenting pursuit of justice, these attorneys have earned their place among the best in the world. Their wide range of experiences, expertise in fields and successful careers are a source of motivation for aspiring lawyers, around the globe. In this changing world these remarkable attorneys will surely make a lasting impact molding the future of law and preserving the ideals of fairness for future generations.
