The law firm Hardison & Cochran announced that four of its attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars listings. This annual recognition program identifies top legal professionals through a rigorous selection process that includes peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations. Fewer than 5% of attorneys in the state are selected to the Super Lawyers list each year, making this a significant achievement for the recognized attorneys and their firm.
Ben Cochran has been selected to the North Carolina Super Lawyers list for the 12th consecutive year for his work in personal injury and North Carolina workers' compensation law. His sustained recognition over more than a decade demonstrates consistent excellence in his field. Jack Hardison has earned his fourth consecutive selection to the North Carolina Super Lawyers list for his work in workers' compensation, showing ongoing professional distinction in this specialized area of law.
In addition to these veteran recognitions, two attorneys have been honored in the Rising Stars category, which identifies top up-and-coming lawyers. Michelle Dewkett-Kochhar has been named to the 2026 Rising Stars list for the second year in a row, indicating growing recognition among her peers. Joey DeMartin has been named to the Rising Stars list for the first time in his career, marking an important milestone in his professional development.
The Super Lawyers selection methodology is detailed at https://www.superlawyers.com/about/selection_process.html and involves multiple phases of evaluation. This recognition matters because it provides clients with an independent, peer-reviewed assessment of attorney quality when seeking legal representation. For the legal community, it serves as validation of professional excellence and can influence career advancement and client referrals.
Hardison & Cochran expressed gratitude for the recognition and pride in serving clients across North Carolina. The firm's multiple attorneys receiving honors across different experience levels suggests a strong institutional culture of legal excellence and mentorship. Such recognitions can enhance a firm's reputation in competitive legal markets and provide clients with greater confidence when selecting representation for personal injury and workers' compensation matters.
