In partnership the State Bar of Arizona, and Arizona Corporate Counsel, Az Business magazine will host the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards on March 31, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix to recognize the important and vital role that in-house counsel and Arizona’s legal sector plays in the success of Arizona’s economy. Today, we spotlight Excellence in Law Awards finalists for small- and medium-sized law firm of the year.
FULL LIST: Here are all the finalists for the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards
LEARN MORE: The Top 100 Lawyers in Arizona for 2026
DEEPER DIVE: 50 emerging leaders in Arizona law for 2026
The 2026 Excellence in Law Awards are presented with the support of Title Sponsors Cresa and Ogletree Deakins and Platinum Sponsor Phillips Law Group. The digital sponsor of the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards is DM Cantor. To purchase tickets for the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards, click here.
Excellence in Law Awards finalists
Here are the Excellence in Law Awards finalists for small- and medium-sized law firm of the year:
Aprio Legal
Aprio Legal delivers integrated legal and advisory support built for founders and trusted by business leaders. The firm’s attorneys work directly with Aprio’s tax, accounting, advisory, and wealth management teams in a truly multidisciplinary approach. This collaboration helps leaders understand their next steps and move forward with clarity across governance, transactions, tax and litigation. With every advisor aligned, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions, reduce risk and stay focused on growth.
Coppersmith Brockelman
Coppersmith Brockelman is one of Arizona’s leading business law firms, shaping public policy, healthcare, employment and other impactful issues. The nationally recognized firm emphasizes excellent service, creative thinking, practical solutions and community engagement. Attorneys bring experience from prestigious practices, in-house counsel and high-level government roles. Nineteen of 26 are recognized in Best Lawyers®, with six named Lawyer of the Year.
DM Cantor
Although DM Cantor only has 23 lawyers, 8 of them are Board-Certified Legal Specialists – the most of any law firm in Arizona. In addition to David Cantor first-chairing a double capital murder trial, the firm has handled multiple homicide, sex crime and white-collar cases, resulting in both dismissal of all charges and “turn-downs” regarding entire prosecutions. Also, DM Cantor has Arizona’s largest family law practice, which handles matters from simple divorces, to contentious custody battles, juvenile issues and high-net-worth cases. The firm has also added an estate and probate practice to better serve their clients’ needs.
Husch Blackwell
Husch Blackwell blends national strength with strong Arizona market insight, advising clients across healthcare, real estate, finance and technology. Known for its entrepreneurial mindset and collaborative culture, the firm delivers innovative, business-focused legal solutions while fostering an environment where attorneys thrive and clients benefit from forward-thinking strategy.
Rafi Law Group
Since founding the firm in 2015, Brandon B. Rafi has led its growth through a people-first approach focused on strong legal advocacy, operational discipline and thoughtful expansion. Under his leadership, Rafi Law Group has grown into one of the state’s most recognized personal injury firms, with multiple offices, a team of hundreds of professionals and a culture rooted in integrity, accountability and client-centered service.
Udall Shumway
Udall Shumway is a cornerstone of Arizona’s legal community, offering comprehensive services in business law, estate planning, litigation and family law. Known for its long-standing relationships and practical counsel, the firm combines institutional knowledge with modern legal strategy to help clients navigate complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.
