Marks & Harrison has been voted among the Best Law Firms in Richmond in the Richmond Times-Dispatch "The Best" awards for 2026, an honor determined by reader nominations and votes. This community-driven accolade reflects the firm's enduring reputation and deep ties to the region it has served since 1911. The recognition matters because it signals public trust at a time when personal injury victims increasingly seek proven legal representation amid a complex legal landscape. For Northern Virginia and surrounding areas, including Fairfax and Arlington counties, the firm's presence and resources offer accessible support for accident and injury cases.
"This honor is especially meaningful because it comes from the people in the communities where we live and work," said Joel R. McClellan, a personal injury attorney with Marks & Harrison. "Since 1911, our mission has been to provide injured Virginians with effective and compassionate legal representation when they need it most." That mission has translated into more than $1 billion recovered for clients over the firm's history, a figure that underscores its capacity to handle significant claims. The firm's growth from its Richmond base to serve clients throughout Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland means that individuals in Northern Virginia can access a substantial legal network without leaving the region.
The implications extend beyond one award. U.S. News & World Report named Marks & Harrison one of the best law firms to work for in its 2026 U.S. News Best Companies to Work For: Law Firms list. This dual recognition—from both the public and a national publication—suggests the firm excels not only in client outcomes but also in workplace culture, which can attract top legal talent. A strong talent pipeline is critical for maintaining high-quality representation, especially as personal injury law grows more specialized. For clients in Fairfax and Arlington, that means access to experienced attorneys and support staff who are likely well-versed in the nuances of Virginia and DC injury law.
Additionally, the firm was named one of Virginia Lawyers Weekly's "Legacy Law Firms," an honor for firms that have served clients for 25 years or more while adapting to economic changes, new technology, and an evolving legal landscape. This adaptability is crucial in a region like Northern Virginia, where rapid population growth and shifting traffic patterns contribute to complex accident cases. A firm with a long track record and modern resources can better navigate insurance disputes, liability questions, and court procedures.
The firm's infrastructure—more than 31 personal injury attorneys and over 100 staff members, research attorneys, and in-house investigators—positions it to handle cases ranging from car accidents to premises liability. Its main office remains in Richmond, but offices throughout Virginia and Washington DC ensure that Northern Virginia residents have local access to its services. For a community that values both local accountability and big-firm capabilities, Marks & Harrison's repeated recognition offers reassurance that injured individuals can find effective representation close to home.
