At Rudman Winchell, excellence is more than an aspiration—it is the very heart of our practice. For decades, our attorneys have worked tirelessly to provide the highest quality legal services to clients throughout Maine. Today, we are honored to announce that several of our dedicated attorneys have been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 Edition, as well as in the Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America 2026 Edition. In addition, one of our esteemed colleagues has been named “Lawyer of the Year” in Bangor, ME, 2026, an honor reserved for the most distinguished leaders in the legal community.
This recognition carries special weight because it is entirely peer-driven. Attorneys are selected through a rigorous process based on feedback and nominations from other leading professionals in their geographic and practice areas. To be included in The Best Lawyers in America reflects both outstanding professional achievement and deep respect from peers.
We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of these attorneys and the positive impact they continue to have on our clients and our community.
Distinguished Honor: “Lawyer of the Year” – Real Estate Law, Bangor, ME, 2026
Each year, only one attorney in each practice area and geographic region earns the prestigious title of Lawyer of the Year. This award underscores not only legal skill but also leadership, professionalism, and impact on the local community.
Hans S. Peterson (2016)
- Lawyer of the Year – Real Estate Law, Bangor, ME, 2026
This honor highlights Attorney Peterson’s reputation as one of The Best Lawyers in America within the field of real estate law. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping both Rudman Winchell’s success and the development of property law in Maine.
The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 – Bangor, ME
(The year in parentheses marks the first year the attorney was recognized in Best Lawyers for any practice area.)
Edmond J. Bearor (2007)
- Land Use and Zoning Law
- Litigation – Land Use and Zoning
- Litigation – Municipal
- Municipal Law
Paul R. Brown (2024)
- Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law
Michael A. Hockenbury (2024)
- Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
Diane S. O’Connell (2026)
- Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
Timothy A. Pease (2026)
- Administrative / Regulatory Law
Hans S. Peterson (2016)
- Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
- Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law
- Corporate Law
- Real Estate Law
Anne-Marie L. Storey (2016)
- Employment Law – Management
- Workers’ Compensation Law – Employers
Joshua A. Tardy (2026)
- Criminal Defense: General Practice
These outstanding attorneys bring decades of combined experience and a wide range of expertise, strengthening Rudman Winchell’s reputation as a trusted resource for clients seeking lawyers in Bangor, Maine.
Rising Stars: Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America 2026 – Bangor, ME
The Ones to Watch recognition honors younger attorneys who are already demonstrating excellence and a commitment to their clients. These professionals represent the future of the legal community.
Kristy M. Hapworth (2022)
- Litigation – Trusts and Estates
- Trusts and Estates
Jonathan Hunter (2023)
- Appellate Practice
Caitlyn S. Smith (2023)
- Criminal Defense: General Practice
- Family Law
- Litigation – Trusts and Estates
- Trusts and Estates
Kristi C. Trafton (2024)
- Municipal Law
- Real Estate Law
Stephen W. Wagner (2023)
- Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law
- Land Use and Zoning Law
- Municipal Law
This recognition confirms that Rudman Winchell’s tradition of excellence is being carried forward by the next generation of talented attorneys. Clients seeking lawyers in Bangor, Maine and throughout the state can be confident they are represented by both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders.
Why Recognition in The Best Lawyers in America Matters for Clients
For clients, choosing an attorney can feel overwhelming. Recognitions such as The Best Lawyers in America and Ones to Watch in America provide reassurance provide reassurance that their lawyer has been tested, evaluated, and highly regarded by their peers. Being included among The Best Lawyers in America is a mark of trust and professionalism, offering peace of mind to clients facing important legal challenges.
Whether you need a business attorney, a trusted lawyer for wills, or a skilled criminal defense attorney, Rudman Winchell offers experienced representation backed by decades of recognition and proven results.
These honors reinforce what our clients already know: our attorneys approach every case with dedication, knowledge, and integrity. From resolving complex business issues to protecting personal rights and managing family matters, Rudman Winchell attorneys are recognized leaders across the legal spectrum.
Rudman Winchell: Trusted Lawyers in Bangor, Maine
As one of the leading Bangor, Maine law firms, Rudman Winchell is proud of the attorneys who have been honored in the 2026 Best Lawyers in America® and Ones to Watch® editions. These recognitions reflect not only the achievements of individual attorneys but also the collective strength of our firm.
Whether advising businesses, guiding families through estate planning, or defending individuals in criminal matters, our attorneys bring unmatched expertise to clients throughout Maine. This year’s recognitions affirm our standing as trusted attorneys in Bangor, Maine and dedicated advocates for the people and businesses we serve.
Continuing a Tradition of Excellence
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of the attorneys recognized this year. Their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence continue to make a lasting impact on our clients and our community. At Rudman Winchell, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide exceptional legal services across a wide range of practice areas. Being recognized among The Best Lawyers in America is an honor we do not take lightly, and it inspires us to continue raising the standard of excellence for the clients who place their trust in us.
👉 For more information on Best Lawyers®, visit www.bestlawyers.com.
