Forbes Names Jessica Dean Among America’s Top Women Lawyers 2026

Recognition follows landmark victories on behalf of workers, consumers and families affected by asbestos exposure

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jessica Dean, a partner at Dean Omar Branham Shirley, has been selected by Forbes to its inaugural list of America’s Top Women Lawyers, recognizing attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, client impact and professional achievement.

Ms. Dean is one of only 11 attorneys from Texas firms named to the 200-member list and one of five Texas women recognized for excellence in litigation.

"Most people will never know the countless hours Jessica spends with clients, learning their stories and helping them navigate incredibly difficult circumstances," said Trey Branham. "The courtroom results speak for themselves, but what makes Jessica special is her commitment to the people behind every case. This recognition is a reflection of both her legal talent and her character."

The recognition follows a series of significant victories for Ms. Dean and her colleagues including a 2025 verdict in Baltimore in which a jury awarded over $1.5 billion to Cherie A. Craft, who developed mesothelioma after years of using Johnson’s Baby Powder. The verdict remains one of the largest talc-related individual verdicts in the country.

Earlier this year, Ms. Dean secured an appellate victory for the family of Rita-Ann Chapman, a California woman who developed mesothelioma after years of using asbestos-contaminated Avon cosmetic products. The court upheld a $51 million verdict in the family's favor, affirming the company's responsibility for failing to adequately warn consumers.

"One of the hardest parts of this work is meeting families at a moment they never expected to face. You see the birthdays, anniversaries and milestones that were cut short because a company chose not to put safety first. Those stories stay with you, and they remind you why accountability matters,” said Ms. Dean.

Forbes noted that many of the nation's most influential lawyers work outside the public spotlight, building elite reputations through their skill, dedication and judgment in high-stakes matters. The publication selected its inaugural honorees from thousands of nominees based on factors including notable litigation, leadership, client impact, community involvement and industry recognition.

View the full list here.

Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP, is a nationally recognized trial firm that handles cases across the country for individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries or have died as a result of the irresponsible conduct of others. For more information, please visit http://www.dobslegal.com.