Associate Attorney Matthew Stearns has been selected to the 2026 Southern California Rising Stars list from Super Lawyers, an esteemed recognition awarded to no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys in each state. The selection process involves rigorous peer nomination, independent research, and peer evaluation, ensuring only the most qualified attorneys receive this distinction. Mr. Stearns was recognized for his outstanding legal performance and proven track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for clients in personal injury matters. His dedication and relentless work ethic have been instrumental in achieving exceptional results for the firm's clients, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in legal representation.
Barry P. Goldberg, Senior Attorney at Goldberg Injury Lawyers, stated that Matthew's well-deserved recognition brings immense pride to the firm. He emphasized that dedication to clients, a sharp legal mind, and relentless work ethic have been evident since Stearns joined the firm, confirming his status as one of the most promising legal talents in personal injury law. The Super Lawyers Rising Stars list specifically recognizes top attorneys who are 40 years old or younger or who have been in practice for 10 years or less. Candidates are evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement through a patented multiphase selection process that includes peer nominations and evaluations, independent research on each nominee's professional background, and comprehensive evaluation based on key performance metrics.
This recognition matters because it provides clients with credible, independently verified information when seeking legal representation. The selection process ensures that attorneys cannot buy their way onto the list, maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the recognition. For individuals seeking personal injury representation, this award serves as an important indicator of legal excellence and proven results in securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The rigorous evaluation methodology employed by Super Lawyers, detailed at https://www.superlawyers.com/about/selection_process.html, reinforces the credibility of this distinction. This matters significantly in the legal field where clients must navigate complex choices when selecting representation, particularly in personal injury cases where outcomes directly impact recovery and financial stability.
The implications of this announcement extend beyond individual recognition to affect how clients identify qualified legal counsel. In an industry where marketing claims can sometimes overshadow actual performance, third-party validations like the Rising Stars list provide an objective benchmark. The recognition signals to potential clients that an attorney has demonstrated consistent excellence as verified by peers and independent research. For the legal community, such distinctions help identify emerging leaders who are shaping practice standards and achieving notable results for clients. The selection process's independence ensures the recognition reflects genuine professional achievement rather than financial influence, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in legal services. This matters because personal injury cases often involve vulnerable individuals seeking justice after traumatic events, making reliable guidance in attorney selection particularly important.
