Professional Distinctions & Recognitions
Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law have earned recognition from respected legal organizations and attorney rating services and maintain involvement in professional associations focused on criminal defense, DUI/DWI defense, and trial advocacy. These distinctions and affiliations reflect peer review, professional achievement, client feedback, and ongoing engagement with continuing legal education in criminal and serious traffic defense practice. They also provide additional context for individuals who want to learn more about the firm’s experience and standing within the legal community. The recognitions described below are issued by independent organizations within the legal profession and offer further information about the firm’s credentials, professional involvement, and commitment to defense practice in Virginia.
Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report
Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law have been recognized in U.S. News & World Report Best Law Firms rankings, which are based on a comprehensive evaluation process that includes peer review, professional achievements, and feedback from clients and attorneys. Recognition in these rankings reflects professional recognition within the legal community and provides additional information about law firms practicing in specific areas of law.
Super Lawyers by Thomson Reuters
Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters, is a legal rating service that recognizes attorneys based on peer nominations, independent research, and professional achievement. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law have received recognition through Super Lawyers, which is intended to identify attorneys who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional accomplishment within their practice areas.
Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating
Martindale-Hubbell is one of the legal profession’s longest-standing attorney rating organizations and is known for its peer review process involving attorneys and members of the judiciary. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law have earned the Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, which reflects professional recognition for legal ability and ethical standards within the practice of law.
Virginia Legal Elite by Virginia Business
Virginia Business Legal Elite recognizes attorneys selected by their peers as leaders within the Virginia legal community. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law have received this recognition, which reflects professional reputation and peer acknowledgment among attorneys practicing throughout the Commonwealth.
Avvo Attorney Rating 10.0 Suberb
Avvo is a legal directory that provides attorney ratings based on publicly available information, professional achievements, experience, and client reviews. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law have received recognition through Avvo, which is intended to help individuals compare attorneys and learn more about their professional background.
Martindale-Hubbell Client Champion Platinum
Martindale-Hubbell Client Champion is a recognition based on client review feedback submitted through Martindale-Hubbell platforms. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law have received this recognition, which reflects positive client evaluations in areas such as communication, responsiveness, value, and overall service.
National College for DUI Defense
The National College for DUI Defense is an organization dedicated to advanced training and education in DUI and impaired-driving defense. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law maintain involvement with the NCDD, reflecting ongoing attention to scientific evidence, trial strategy, and developments in DUI law.
Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
The Virginia Trial Lawyers Association is a professional organization focused on trial advocacy and continuing legal education for attorneys practicing in Virginia courts. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law maintain involvement with the VTLA as part of their ongoing engagement with the Virginia legal community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do professional distinctions and recognitions mean?
Professional distinctions and recognitions are issued by legal organizations, attorney rating services, or professional publications based on factors such as peer review, professional achievement, client feedback, or industry evaluation. These recognitions provide additional information about an attorney’s professional background and standing within the legal community.
Are these recognitions based on peer review, client feedback, or both?
It depends on the organization issuing the recognition. Some distinctions are based primarily on peer review from attorneys and judges, while others incorporate client feedback, professional achievements, public information, or a combination of these factors.
Do professional recognitions guarantee a result in my case?
No. Professional recognitions do not guarantee any particular outcome in a legal matter. Every case is different, and results depend on the specific facts, applicable law, and circumstances involved.
What is the difference between a legal rating and a professional association?
A legal rating or recognition is typically issued through a selection or evaluation process by a rating organization or publication. A professional association, by contrast, reflects membership or participation in an organization focused on legal education, professional development, or advocacy within the legal profession.
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Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law defend clients in Virginia criminal and traffic cases, including DUI/DWI, reckless driving, speeding, and related offenses. Request a Confidential Case Review
3/10/2026