Meet this year’s dynamic class of young lawyers nominated by their firm because they demonstrate diligence, passion, and professionalism in their respective area of legal practice. Each lawyer is about 40 years old or younger. Their zenith awaits them. Read on to meet the Up and Coming Lawyers Class of 2025. Lawyers are listed alphabetically by first name.
Alexander Berman
Griffin & Griffin, LLP; 1320 19th Street NW, Ste. 800, Washington, D.C. 20036; 202-429-9000; washlaw.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law The firm said: “Alexander consistently demonstrates exceptional legal acumen and client dedication. His diverse background, encompassing an MBA in Finance and a J.D. with a Real Estate focus, equips him to provide insightful and strategic guidance in complex corporate, real estate, and estate matters.”
Alicen Jobes
Burnett Injury Group; 2661 Riva Road, Bldg. 1000, Ste. 1010, Annapolis, MD 21401; 443-785-6406; burnettinjurygroup.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Medical Malpractice Law The firm said: “Alicen earned her BS from Towson and is a Registered Nurse (RN). She was in clinical practice for a number of years and then shifted her focus and entered law school. She has been a practicing attorney for several years and is already a leader in the field of Medical Malpractice.”
Alicia Balanesi
Franke Beckett LLC; 151 West Street, Ste. 301, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-263-4876; fredfranke.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law The firm said: “Alicia’s thorough and creative legal work consistently demonstrates her ability to analyze complex issues and craft innovative solutions that achieve outstanding results. Beyond her technical skill, Alicia excels at building meaningful relationships with her clients.”
Alla Cates
Frost Law; 839 Bestgate Road, Ste. 400, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-995-9618; askfrost.com
Education: George Washington University Law School Legal Specialty(s): Tax Law The firm said: “Alla brings a decade of experience across a wide range of tax issues, from traditional areas like audits and penalty abatements to cutting-edge challenges like cryptocurrency audits. Her international tax knowledge, spanning numerous countries and complex regulations, adds another layer to her impressive skillset.”
Andre Habib
Liff, Walsh & Simmons LLC; 181 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Ste. 200, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-266-9500; liffwalsh.com
Education: Widener University Delaware School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Litigation, Real Estate Law The firm said: “Andre is a team player with a tremendous work ethic. He applies creative thinking skills to find new ways to resolve complex problems. He is diligent in all of his work, resulting in excellent attention to detail.”
Bridget Campbell
Campbell and Furneisen Law, LLC; 210 S. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620; 443-480-6229; campbellandfurneisen.com
Education: Juris Doctor Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law, Family Law The firm said: “She’s wonderful and always willing to help those in need.”
Brittney Grizzanti
Bagley & Rhody, P.C.; 1788 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-573-1626; bagleyrhody.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law The firm said: “Brittney heads the firm’s Estate Planning Department and handles a variety of client needs, ranging from those who are looking to establish a simple estate plan for the first time, to clients with more complex needs, such as probate avoidance, estate, and gift tax planning, business succession planning, charitable planning, and planning for individuals with special needs.”
Christina van Vonno
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker LLC; 9925 Stephen Decatur Highway, Ste. 5, Ocean City, MD 21842; 410-213-2202; mdswlaw.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Family Law, Litigation The firm said: “Since joining MDSW two years ago as an associate attorney, Christina has grown her practice with remarkable confidence and professionalism, quickly establishing herself as a valued contributor to our family law department. Known for her sharp intellect and empathetic pragmatism, she consistently delivers exceptional results advocating for her clients.”
Connor Noel
Hillman, Brown & Darrow, P.A.; 221 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-263-3131; hbdlaw.com
Education: George Washington University Law School Legal Specialty(s): Litigation The firm said: “In the short time since Connor has been practicing he has already handled many difficult cases for the firm and has earned praise from the clients, opposing attorneys, and his colleagues. Connor is clearly an up and coming attorney in Maryland.”
Corinne D. Adams
YVS Law, LLC; 185 Admiral Cochrane Drive, Ste. 130, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-571-2780; yvslaw.com
Education: St. John’s University School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Bankruptcy Law The firm said: “Corinne has become one of the most respected bankruptcy practitioners in the greater Maryland bankruptcy bar. Corinne’s leadership roles include IWIRC and Inn of Court board positions; she is a past co-chair of IWIRC’s Greater Maryland network.”
Craig Snyder
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker LLC; 706 Giddings Avenue, Ste. 305, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-934-3900; mdswlaw.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Real Estate Law The firm said: “Craig is one of our firm’s most diligent and intuitive associate attorneys. Driven by an exceptional work ethic, Craig is unwavering in his commitment to delivering excellent service and expert guidance to his clients.”
Cristol Wagner
Sinclair Prosser Gasior; 183 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Ste. 104, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-573-4818; spgasior.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law The firm said: “Cristol is dedicated to supporting her clients with trust and compassion, whether helping them create a secure estate plan to ease their worries or guiding them through the challenging process of estate administration after a loss. She recognizes that each client or family has unique needs and priorities.”
Dave Baxter
Coon & Cole, LLC; 110 N. West Street, Ste. D, Easton, MD 21601; 410-822-5240; cooncolelaw.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Family Law The firm said: “Dave is hard-working, pragmatic in his approach to divorce and custody cases, and does an exceptional job of making himself very easily relatable to clients. Dave cares about his clients, and it’s easy to see that come through in how he practices law.”
Diana Khan
DK Law Group; 10451 Mill Run Circle, #755, Owings Mills, MD 21117; 240-266-0291; dklawmd.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Estate Law, Real Estate Law The firm said: “Diana doesn’t just practice law—she transforms lives by empowering clients to build, protect, and elevate their legacies. Through her innovative strategies and unwavering dedication, Diana bridges the gap between legal expertise and genuine client advocacy, creating solutions that leave a lasting impact.”
Edward Scheirer
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker LLC; 100 N. West Street, Easton, MD 21601; 410-820-0222; mdswlaw.com
Education: Villanova Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law The firm said: “Edward’s sophisticated corporate and business law practice has quickly established him as a standout associate attorney. Known by his clients and colleagues alike for his professionalism and exceptional work ethic, Edward’s practice continuously sets a high standard for excellence.”
Elizabeth Noon
Bagley & Rhody, P.C.; 1788 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-573-1626; bagleyrhody.com
Education: Washington & Lee University School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law The firm said: “Elizabeth concentrates her practice on estate and trust planning. She was a member of the Washington & Lee Law Review and served as a judicial extern for the Hon. Michael D. Wilson of the Supreme Court of Hawaii. Following graduation, Elizabeth clerked for the Hon. Cathleen M. Vitale, gaining experience in various civil and criminal cases.”
Erin K. Benson
YVS Law, LLC; 185 Admiral Cochrane Drive, Ste. 130, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-571-2780; yvslaw.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Environmental Law, Real Estate Law The firm said: “Erin has a diverse skill-set including real estate transactional work, leasing, renewable energy permitting, and Anne Arundel land use and development. She joined the YVS real estate team in 2022, and since then has become an invaluable contributor.”
Garrett Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald Law Group; 14 N. Washington Street, Easton, MD 21601; 410-690-4948; thefitzgeraldlawgroup.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Family Law The firm said: “Garrett has a compassionate, realistic, practical approach with his clients. He often represents children on behalf of the court and does so in a thoughtful and generous matter. He works very hard and deals with familial dysfunction which he always seeks to moderate for a peaceful and lasting settlement.”
Helen “Beth” Burgee
Sinclair Prosser Gasior; 183 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Ste. 104, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-573-4818; spgasior.com
Education: University of Georgia School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law The firm said: “Beth’s mission is to provide clients with peace of mind by expertly guiding them through the estate administration process. Beth’s approach is defined by her patience, thoroughness, and attention to detail, ensuring that every step of the process is handled with care and precision.”
Jonathan A. Grasso
YVS Law, LLC; 185 Admiral Cochrane Drive, Ste. 130, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-571-2780; yvslaw.com
Education: St. John’s University School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Bankruptcy Law, Litigation The firm said: “Jonathan is a highly-skilled practitioner who practices regionally and nationally, representing a diverse range of business clients in the areas of complex commercial litigation, restructuring, bankruptcy, collections, out-of-court workouts and other creditors’ rights matters.”
Jonathan Watson
Bagley & Rhody, P.C.; 1788 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-573-1626; bagleyrhody.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law The firm said: “Jon currently serves as the practice lead for the firm’s business law group. Jon’s experience is not just limited to corporate law, having also gained experience in estate planning and wealth preservation for high net-worth clients. Jon’s broad range of experience and practical approach to problem solving allows him to facilitate even the most complex transactions.”
Josh Matthews
Frost Law; 839 Bestgate Road, Ste. 400, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-995-9618; askfrost.com
Education: Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Tax Law The firm said: “Josh’s unique background and dedication to client service make him a compelling nominee. His experience as a Naval Intelligence Officer, combined with his legal training in tax law through the Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic and VITA program, provides him with a diverse perspective and strong skillset.”
Kaitlin O’Dowd
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker LLC; 706 Giddings Avenue, Ste. 305, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-934-3900; mdswlaw.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Employment Law, Litigation The firm said: “In the short time she’s been with MDSW, Kaitlin has already made a remarkable impact as an associate attorney in our Annapolis office. Her confidence and intelligence have quickly made her an invaluable member of our litigation practice, impressing both her colleagues and her clients with her legal acumen.”
Kathleen Millrood
Liff, Walsh & Simmons LLC; 181 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Ste. 200, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-266-9500; liffwalsh.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Real Estate Law The firm said: “Kathleen is an integral member of the firm’s Real Estate, Business Law, and Commercial Finance practice groups. Her ability to navigate complex legal issues with precision and creativity has earned her the trust and admiration of colleagues, clients, and community partners alike.”
Kayla Williams Campbell
Community Legal Services; 6301 Ivy Lane, Ste. 720, Greenbelt, MD 20770; 240-391-6370; clspgc.org
Education: Southern University Law Center Legal Specialty(s): Public Interest Law The firm said: “Kayla is a trailblazing attorney whose innovative leadership has transformed access to justice. Her strategic vision earned her a promotion to Deputy Director, where she now helps oversee a team of 40-plus staff and 10 free legal services programs and clinics. Kayla’s commitment to equity and excellence makes her a standout among rising legal professionals.”
Kelly Callahan
Liff, Walsh & Simmons LLC; 181 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Ste. 200, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-266-9500; liffwalsh.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Real Estate Law The firm said: “Kelly consistently applies creative problem solving, helping to overcome unforeseen challenges while finding solutions to unconventional problems. She is extremely reliable and advocates passionately for her clients. She has a tremendous depth of law knowledge making her a huge asset to the team.”
Kirby Hopkins
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker LLC; 100 N. West Street, Easton, MD 21601; 410-820-0222; mdswlaw.com
Education: Florida Coastal School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law, Real Estate Law The firm said: “Kirby has been a cornerstone of MDSW’s success and is known for her keen analytical talents, excellent collaboration skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Her exceptional work ethic, paired with her genuine kindness, has cemented Kirby as an indispensable attorney.”
Lauren Torggler
Hillman, Brown & Darrow, P.A.; 221 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-263-3131; hbdlaw.com
Education: Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Family Law The firm said: “Lauren is one the most dedicated, detail oriented, and conscientious attorneys. She handles the discovery aspect of many of our most complex divorce cases and always goes above and beyond for our clients. She is always willing to put in the extra time to ensure our clients have the best representation.”
Max Frizalone
FrizWoods Criminal Defense; 540 Ritchie Highway, Ste. 301, Severna Park, MD 21146; 301-383-9266; frizwoods.com
Education: University of Miami Legal Specialty(s): Criminal Law The firm said: “Max’s dedication to defending clients’ rights and his innovative approach to legal challenges have set him apart in the legal community. His ability to balance a growing firm while providing personalized attention to each client exemplifies his passion for justice and his potential to make a lasting impact in the field of law.”
Michael Ott
Murnane & O’Neill; 7425 Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard, Ste. 200, Glen Burnie, MD 21061; 41-761-6800; murnaneandoneill.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Criminal Law The firm said: “Michael spends most of his day in the courtroom, where he has represented thousands of clients through complex misdemeanor and felony cases. His calming, relatable demeanor helps put his clients at ease throughout the entire process. Michael uses his vast legal knowledge and creative thinking to achieve the best results possible for his clients.”
Patrick Daley
Kagan Stern Marinello & Beard LLC; 238 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-216-7900; kaganstern.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Litigation The firm said: “In his final year of eligibility, Patrick has continued to epitomize what we in the legal community think of when it comes to an Up & Coming lawyer. He is nothing but dependable, hardworking, articulate, and successful in everything that he touches.”
Renee Sullivan
Bagley & Rhody, P.C.; 1788 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-573-1626; bagleyrhody.com
Education: Tulane University Law School Legal Specialty(s): Estate Law The firm said: “Renee concentrates her practice in estate and trust administration, and helps clients navigate the administration process after the loss of a loved one. She represents personal representatives, trustees, and beneficiaries of estates and trusts of all sizes. Renee works closely with CPAs, financial planners, appraisers, and various professionals to streamline the fiduciary requirements for her clients.”
Robert Braland
Frost Law; 839 Bestgate Road, Ste. 400, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-995-9618; askfrost.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Tax Law The firm said: “Robert dedication to tax law, community engagement, and professional growth makes him an ideal candidate. His background showcases a commitment to serving both the legal profession and the wider Annapolis community. His work with the Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic, the MSBA Taxation Section, and Live Arts Maryland highlights his well-rounded contributions.”
Shannon Hayden
Kagan Stern Marinello & Beard LLC; 238 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-216-7900; kaganstern.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Litigation The firm said: “Shannon has played a pivotal role in multiple jury and court trials resulting in victories for the firm’s clients. Shannon has quickly developed a reputation for her dependability, litigation skills, and aptitude for assisting clients efficiently and effectively in their time of need.”
Thomas Brimmer
The Jaklitsch Law Group; 14350 Old Marlboro Pike, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772; 301-781-7600; jaklitschlawgroup.com
Education: William & Mary Law School Legal Specialty(s): Personal Injury Law The firm said: “Tom is an outstanding young litigator. He quickly showed his skills in the courtroom, winning multiple difficult cases for his clients in just his first few months our firm, while impressing others with his superior legal knowledge, writing ability, and common-sense way of problem solving.”
Uriel Stern
Frost Law; 839 Bestgate Road, Ste. 400, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-995-9618; askfrost.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Bankruptcy Law The firm said: “With over a decade of experience representing diverse stakeholders in bankruptcy proceedings, Uriel brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record to his practice. His reputation for meticulous attention to detail, strategic thinking, and strong advocacy skills highlights his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients.”
Valerie Anias
A Team Family Law; 168 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 443-906-0025; ateamfamilylaw.com
Education: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Family Law The firm said: “Valerie is a dedicated advocate providing compassionate, inclusive legal services. In addition to excelling in family law and estate planning, Val offers low-cost and pro bono support to the LGBTQ community in Anne Arundel and surrounding counties. Val’s professionalism, courtroom prowess, and commitment to justice have transformed countless lives.”
Veronica Mina
Kagan Stern Marinello & Beard LLC; 238 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-216-7900; kaganstern.com
Education: University of Maryland Carey School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Litigation The firm said: “Veronica has demonstrated tremendous aptitude for success in the litigation world, helping to obtain a major preliminary injunction for one client after a four-day hearing and multiple judgments in other matters in favor of the firm’s clients.”
Zoha Sohail
Frost Law; 839 Bestgate Road, Ste. 400, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-995-9618; askfrost.com
Education: University of San Diego School of Law Legal Specialty(s): Tax Law The firm said: “Zoha’s experience spans a wide range of tax issues, including both domestic and international matters. Her background in assisting individuals and small businesses navigate complex tax regulations, coupled with her pro bono work demonstrates her commitment to helping taxpayers understand and meet their obligations.”
Recent Leading Lawyers That Were Nominated
In addition to the Up & Coming Lawyers Class of 2025, we present several exceptional lawyers that were nominated for the honor, but were ineligible, having previously earned the distinction of being a Leading Lawyer 2024–2025.
David Baines
Ewing, Dietz, Fountain & Kaludis, P.A. ; 16 S. Washington Street, Easton, MD 21601; 410-822-1988; ewingdietz.com
Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Personal Injury Law
David Jaklitsch
The Jaklitsch Law Group ; 14350 Old Marlboro Pike, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772; 301-781-7600; jaklitschlawgroup.com
Legal Specialty(s): Personal Injury Law
Frank P. Lozupone, III
Bowman Jarashow Law, LLC; 162 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-267-9545; bowmanjarashow.com
Legal Specialty(s): Business Law, Real Estate Law
Ivette Furneisen
Campbell and Furneisen Law, LLC ; 210 S Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620; 443-480-6229; campbellandfurneisen.com
Legal Specialty(s): Criminal Law, Immigration Law
Jennifer Henriquez
Bowman Jarashow Law, LLC; 162 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-267-9545; bowmanjarashow.com
Legal Specialty(s): Litigation
Katie D’Entremont
Hillman, Brown & Darrow, P.A.; 221 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-263-3131; hbdlaw.com
Legal Specialty(s): Family Law
Lucas Van Deusen
Bowman Jarashow Law, LLC ; 162 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-267-9545; bowmanjarashow.com
Legal Specialty(s): Litigation
Magaly Bittner
Jimeno & Gray, P.A.; 7310 Ritchie Highway, #900, Glen Burnie, MD 21061; 443-227-5960; jimenogray.com
Legal Specialty(s): Family Law
Nicholas Mastracci
Rice Law; 79 Franklin Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-709-8971; staceyricelaw.com
Legal Specialty(s): Family Law
Sarah E. Brown
Hillman, Brown & Darrow, P.A. ; 221 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401; 410-263-3131; hbdlaw.com
Legal Specialty(s): Family Law
Suzanne Burnett
Burnett Injury Group; 2661 Riva Road, Bldg. 1000, Ste. 1010, Annapolis, MD 21401; 443-785-6406; burnettinjurygroup.com
Legal Specialty(s): Personal Injury Law
