Every trial features attorneys who represent plaintiffs or defendants. Each side challenges the other in pursuit of a favorable outcome for its clients. Yes, some trials can be contentious, but ultimately, attorneys respect each other and can openly admire the skills of their opponent.
The Best Lawyers organization has long understood that recognition of legal acumen extends beyond the courtroom. That is why they compile an annual ranking of regional attorneys and law firms, voted on by their peers, to be the best in their field.
For the 2026 Edition of Best Law Firms, DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC is proud to announce that we’ve placed at the top of six regional rankings for the Charleston, West Virginia area. The firm’s outstanding record of supporting clients has earned it honors in the following six practice areas:
- Criminal Defense: General Practice
- Criminal Defense: White-Collar
- Employment Law – Individuals
- Litigation – Labor & Employment
- Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs
- Bet-the-Company Litigation
This honor reflects more than four decades of excellence, dedication, and positive results for our clients across West Virginia. It also demonstrates that as a firm, we’re able to provide exceptional support and guidance across a wide range of legal areas.
We’re also proud to celebrate our attorneys recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®️ for their exceptional professional achievements:
J. Timothy DiPiero – Bet-the-Company Litigation; Criminal Defense: General Practice; Criminal Defense: White-Collar; Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs
Attorney J. Timothy DiPiero is known for his formidable experience and trial skills. Before joining the firm, Mr. DiPiero served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. Those years working diligently as a prosecutor have helped Mr. DiPiero hone his skills in the area of criminal defense. His experience provides him with a keen insight into how the state prosecutes certain offenses, which ultimately benefits his clients.
Robert M. Bastress III – Employment Law – Individuals; Litigation – Labor & Employment
Attorney Robert M. Bastress III spent several years as the Assistant Attorney General in the Consumer Protection/Antitrust Division of the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, where he was a fierce advocate for senior citizens who were victims of consumer scams. That experience has forged the skills that Mr. Bastress brings to the firm, representing victims of personal injury, wrongful employment termination, wrongful death, and consumer fraud.
Lonnie C. Simmons – Litigation – Labor & Employment
Attorney Lonnie C. Simmons is dedicated to ensuring that everyone gets their day in court. Mr. Simmons was one of the first lawyers in the country to use DNA testing to free an innocent person. That is the exact type of exceptional litigation and negotiation skills that clients can count on when Mr. Simmons takes on their case. His interests are in pursuing justice for claims of wrongful convictions, police misconduct, and other civil rights violations. He is also a champion for workers’ rights.
Best Lawyers has provided trusted, peer-reviewed recognition for attorneys and law firms for over 40 years. They’ve set the standard for merit-based legal distinction and are respected by lawyers and firms worldwide.
DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC, is honored to be part of the 2026 Edition of Best Law Firms, and we’re looking forward to living up to those accolades.
