John E. Lichtenstein, founding attorney of Lichtenstein Law Group in Roanoke, Virginia, has been named the 2027 Best Lawyers® 'Lawyer of the Year' in two practice areas: Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Criminal Defense: General Practice. This recognition, announced on August 20, 2026, is the publication's highest honor, awarded to only one lawyer in each practice area and region annually based on peer evaluations.
Best Lawyers selects attorneys through a comprehensive process that relies on peer feedback, with no payment required for inclusion. The 'Lawyer of the Year' distinction goes to the attorney who receives the highest overall peer ratings in their geographic region for a specific practice area. Mr. Lichtenstein's recognition reflects his professionalism, integrity, and the respect of his fellow attorneys.
This latest honor adds to an impressive record. Since his first inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America in 2006, Mr. Lichtenstein has been named 'Lawyer of the Year' in the Roanoke region 16 times across four practice areas. His previous recognitions include Criminal Defense: General Practice (2019, 2023, 2025), Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs (2016, 2018, 2024), Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs (2013, 2015, 2022, 2026), and Criminal Defense (2011, 2014, 2020).
Beyond these honors, Mr. 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 career has been marked by high-stakes litigation in state and federal courts, covering personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, product liability, and criminal defense.
Mr. Lichtenstein's leadership includes serving as former President of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association and chairing 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.
Commenting on the award, Mr. Lichtenstein said, 'This award is especially meaningful because it comes from attorneys who know the legal profession best. It reflects the hard work, meticulous case preparation, and dedication of our entire team to helping clients who face life-changing legal challenges.'
Lichtenstein Law Group brings nearly 100 years of combined legal experience to clients across Virginia, offering a client-centered approach in complex litigation matters. The firm handles cases in personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, criminal defense, civil rights, and business torts. For more information, visit Lichtenstein Law Group or call (540) 343-9711.
