Welcome
By Michelle Swanner
It is my distinct honor, on behalf of The National Trial Lawyers, to unveil the 2024 – 2025 A-List.
As President of the A-List and Executive Producer of the Golden Gavel Awards, I begin with one message above all others: congratulations. The firms recognized here represent the 100 most dominant and forward-thinking advertising law practices in the nation. Your placement reflects more than marketing dollars— it reflects strategy, discipline, adaptability, and results.
Legal advertising has never been more dynamic. Platforms multiply. Algorithms evolve. Consumer behavior shifts constantly. Today’ s firms must navigate a landscape that demands precision and agility— adjusting messaging, platforms, and budgets in real time. In this environment, success belongs to those who think strategically rather than reactively.
Using data from Nielsen Media Research, we evaluate national advertising spending and performance metrics to identify firms not simply participating in the marketplace, but shaping it. The A-List offers a clear snapshot of where influence and investment converge nationwide— serving as a benchmark for the trajectory of legal marketing.
Over the past seven years, the A-List has grown into a respected industry brand, and the Golden Gavel Awards Ceremony stands as a highlight of the Trial Lawyers Summit. This year, more than 425 guests filled our venue to capacity, and we received over 500 Golden Gavel submissions— the highest number in our history.
We also honored two distinguished leaders by inducting them into the Advertising Hall of Fame, recognizing both rising excellence and enduring legacy.
While I was not the original architect of the A-List, I am proud to carry it forward. My sincere gratitude to Harlan Schillinger for his foundational leadership, and to Omarosa Newman for serving as our guest emcee.
To every firm featured in this edition: your work strengthens the visibility of the legal profession and expands public access to justice. The innovation represented here sets the tone for the year ahead.
We look forward to celebrating next January again in Miami Beach at the Trial Lawyers Summit. With great respect and admiration,
Michelle Swanner President, The A-List Executive Producer, Golden Gavel Awards
4 x The A-List