National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys (NAOPIA) is a professional organization that evaluates personal injury attorneys across the country and limits its annual Top 10 designation to a small group of practitioners in each state. The recognition is intended to acknowledge attorneys who have built respected careers in personal injury litigation and who are regarded for their experience and professionalism within the legal community.

John J. Malm is a Chicago personal injury attorney and the founder of John J. Malm & Associates. He brings more than 32 years of experience representing individuals and families in serious injury cases, including automobile accidents, truck crashes, wrongful death claims, and premises liability matters. His practice has remained focused exclusively on personal injury law throughout his career.

“This recognition from NAOPIA is meaningful because it reflects professional experience and long-term dedication to personal injury law,” Malm said. “Personal injury cases involve real people facing serious consequences, and that responsibility has guided how I’ve practiced for more than three decades.”

About the NAOPIA Top 10 Distinction

The National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys limits its Top 10 designation to attorneys who meet specific criteria related to professional reputation, experience, and involvement in personal injury litigation. According to NAOPIA, the selection process is designed to identify attorneys who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to their practice area and who have earned respect within the profession.

The Top 10 designation is not based on guarantees of outcomes or marketing claims, but on professional qualifications and peer-oriented considerations. Inclusion reflects recognition of experience and standing within the field of personal injury law.

Leadership and Practice Focus

John J. Malm leads John J. Malm & Associates, a firm with offices in Naperville and St. Charles that represents injury victims throughout Illinois. The firm focuses exclusively on personal injury litigation and has recovered more than $110 million on behalf of clients over the years.

The firm’s legal team consists of six personal injury attorneys with more than 95 years of combined experience. Under Malm’s leadership, the firm emphasizes thorough case preparation, direct attorney involvement, and clear communication with clients at every stage of representation.

“Experience matters most when it’s paired with accountability and preparation,” Malm added. “This recognition reinforces the importance of maintaining high professional standards for the people who rely on us.”

Significance for Clients and the Legal Community

Professional recognitions such as NAOPIA’s Top 10 offer consumers an additional perspective when evaluating personal injury attorneys. By focusing on attorney experience and professional standing, the designation provides insight into peer-recognized qualifications rather than consumer marketing alone.

While no award can replace a personal consultation or predict the outcome of a specific case, inclusion in NAOPIA’s Top 10 reflects a level of professional respect earned over time within the personal injury legal community.

John J. Malm’s Continuing Commitment to Justice

John J. Malm views the 2026 NAOPIA Top 10 recognition as both an acknowledgment of past work and a continuing obligation to clients.

“Every case represents someone’s health, livelihood, and future,” Malm said. “That responsibility doesn’t change, regardless of recognition.”

As he looks ahead, John J. Malm remains committed to representing injury victims throughout Illinois with integrity, preparation, and respect. The NAOPIA Top 10 designation for 2026 stands as recognition of professional experience, peer respect, and sustained dedication to personal injury law.

ThreeBestRated® evaluates businesses across a wide range of industries with the goal of identifying service providers that demonstrate reliability, credibility, and sustained performance. The 2026 recognition reflects long-term consumer trust and consistent client experience, rather than short-term results or promotional activity.

John J. Malm & Associates is a personal injury law firm serving clients throughout Illinois, with offices in Naperville and St. Charles. The firm is led by John J. Malm, a Chicago-area personal injury attorney with more than 32 years of experience representing individuals and families who have been injured as a result of negligence. The firm’s practice focuses exclusively on personal injury litigation, including car accidents, truck accidents, wrongful death claims, and premises liability cases.

Over the years, John J. Malm & Associates has recovered more than $110 million on behalf of injury victims. The firm has built its reputation through careful case preparation, direct attorney involvement, and consistent communication with clients throughout the legal process.

“It is an honor to be recognized by ThreeBestRated® as a Best Business for 2026,” said John J. Malm. “For more than three decades, my focus has been on providing clients with honest guidance, clear communication, and strong advocacy during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. This recognition reflects the importance of doing the work the right way, year after year.”

How ThreeBestRated® Selects Best Businesses

ThreeBestRated® uses an independent evaluation process to identify businesses that meet its standards for quality and service. According to the organization, its assessments consider multiple factors, including reputation, client reviews, service quality, responsiveness, trust, and overall business performance.

Rather than relying on applications or paid placements, ThreeBestRated® conducts its own research to evaluate businesses within specific geographic markets. The process emphasizes consistency and credibility, focusing on businesses that demonstrate sustained positive consumer feedback and professional standards over time.

For professional service providers such as law firms, the evaluation considers how effectively a business serves its clients, maintains ethical and professional standards, and earns public trust within its community.

Recognition of Individual Leadership and Firm Performance

The 2026 Best Business designation applies both to John J. Malm individually and to John J. Malm & Associates as a firm. This dual recognition reflects the role of experienced leadership in shaping the firm’s culture and the consistency of its client-focused approach.

“As a Chicagoland personal injury attorney, I’ve always believed that experience matters most when it’s paired with preparation and accountability,” Malm said. “This acknowledgment recognizes not just outcomes, but the way we treat our clients and the standards we hold ourselves to every day.”

Under Malm’s leadership, the firm has maintained a focused practice model, limiting its work to personal injury cases in order to provide depth of experience and disciplined advocacy. The firm is comprised of six personal injury attorneys who collectively bring more than 95 years of legal experience to their practice.

Why the ThreeBestRated® Recognition Matters

Consumers seeking a personal injury lawyer are often making decisions under stressful circumstances, including medical treatment, lost income, and uncertainty about the future. Independent evaluations such as those conducted by ThreeBestRated® can provide helpful context when consumers are evaluating professional service providers.

The Best Business designation highlights businesses that have demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and strong client engagement within their local communities. By emphasizing reputation and service quality, the evaluation helps distinguish businesses that have earned trust through consistent performance.

While no recognition can replace a personal consultation or guarantee a particular outcome, the ThreeBestRated® designation offers consumers an additional point of reference when selecting legal representation.

A Continued Commitment to Clients

John J. Malm & Associates views its recognition as a Best Business of 2026 as a responsibility to continue meeting the expectations of its clients. The firm remains committed to transparent communication, careful legal analysis, and respectful treatment of every client it represents.

“We are grateful to our clients for their trust,” Malm said. “Their confidence in our work is the most meaningful measure of success. This recognition reinforces our commitment to maintaining the standards our clients deserve.”

As the firm moves forward, John J. Malm & Associates remains focused on serving injury victims throughout Illinois with integrity, preparation, and respect. The ThreeBestRated® Best Business of 2026 recognition stands as an acknowledgment of sustained performance, experienced leadership, and an ongoing commitment to client service.

Super Lawyers is a nationally recognized rating service that identifies outstanding attorneys who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only a small percentage of attorneys in each state are selected annually, following a rigorous, multi-step evaluation process that includes peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations.

For our firm, having five attorneys recognized in the same year underscores the depth of talent, experience, and advocacy we bring to every case we handle.

What the Super Lawyers Selection Means

Super Lawyers selections are based on more than name recognition or years in practice. Attorneys are evaluated on 12 indicators of professional achievement and peer recognition, including:

• Verdicts and settlements
• Experience and specialization
• Honors and awards
• Peer evaluations
• Professional activity and leadership

Because the process relies heavily on peer input, the designation carries particular weight within the legal community. Being named a Super Lawyer means fellow attorneys—often opposing counsel—recognize the honoree as a skilled, ethical, and effective advocate.

John J. Malm: Leadership, Trial Experience, and Client Advocacy

As the founder of John J. Malm & Associates, John J. Malm has built a reputation throughout Illinois as a formidable trial lawyer and a tireless advocate for injured clients. His selection as a Super Lawyer reflects decades of experience handling complex personal injury cases, including catastrophic injury, wrongful death, trucking accidents, and premises liability matters.

John’s approach to litigation is rooted in preparation, integrity, and an unwavering focus on results. He is known for taking on difficult cases that insurance companies would rather avoid and for preparing every case as though it will be tried before a jury.

Reflecting on the recognition, John Malm stated:

“This honor belongs as much to our clients as it does to our attorneys. Every case we handle represents someone who trusted us during one of the most difficult moments of their life, and that responsibility is something we take seriously every single day.”

John’s leadership has shaped the culture of the firm: one that emphasizes collaboration, mentorship, and accountability to clients.

Marilynn Frangella: Experience, Judgment, and Trusted Counsel

Marilynn Frangella brings a wealth of experience and sound judgment to the firm, making her Super Lawyer selection especially meaningful. Marilynn is respected for her ability to navigate complex legal issues while maintaining a steady focus on her clients’ long-term interests.

Her approach is thoughtful and strategic, informed by years of practice and a deep understanding of how cases unfold in both negotiation and litigation settings. Marilynn’s peers recognize her not only for her legal skill but also for her professionalism and ethical standards.

Her inclusion among this year’s Super Lawyers reflects her standing as a trusted advocate within the Illinois legal community.

Rachel Legorreta: Strategic Advocacy with a Client-First Focus

Rachel Legorreta’s selection as a Super Lawyer highlights her reputation as a strategic and compassionate advocate. Known for her meticulous case preparation and strong courtroom presence, Rachel handles a wide range of personal injury matters, including motor vehicle collisions, fatal accident cases, premises liability cases, and complex negligence claims.

Rachel’s practice is defined by her ability to balance legal precision with empathy. She works closely with clients to ensure they understand each step of the legal process and feel empowered to make informed decisions about their cases.

Her recognition as a Super Lawyer reflects the respect she has earned from peers and clients alike, as well as her consistent record of achieving favorable outcomes in challenging cases.

Sara Bendoff: Precision, Persistence, and Results

Sara Bendoff has earned Super Lawyer recognition through her dedication to thorough legal analysis and relentless advocacy on behalf of injured clients. Sara is known for her ability to break down complex factual and medical issues and present them in a clear, compelling manner, whether in negotiations or litigation.

Her work ethic and attention to detail are frequently cited by colleagues as defining strengths. Sara approaches every case with the understanding that behind the legal issues are real people dealing with pain, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future.

Sara’s selection reflects her growing influence within the legal community and her commitment to delivering meaningful results for those she represents.

Alyssa Pullara: Rising Excellence and Modern Advocacy

Alyssa Pullara’s recognition as a Super Lawyer underscores her role as a rising force in personal injury litigation. Alyssa combines modern legal strategy with a deep respect for traditional trial advocacy, making her particularly effective in cases involving serious injuries and contested liability.

Clients consistently praise Alyssa for her responsiveness, clarity, and determination. She takes a hands-on approach to case management and is deeply involved at every stage, from investigation through resolution.

Her Super Lawyer selection affirms what clients and colleagues already know: Alyssa is a skilled advocate whose work reflects both professionalism and genuine care for those she represents.

A Team-Based Approach to Excellence

While Super Lawyers honors individual achievement, our firm views this recognition as a reflection of our team-based approach. Our attorneys collaborate extensively, sharing insights, strategies, and resources to strengthen every case we handle.

This collective approach benefits our clients by ensuring that:

• Cases are evaluated from multiple perspectives
• Legal strategies are thoroughly vetted
• Clients receive the benefit of the firm’s combined experience

Having five Super Lawyers at one firm means our clients are supported by a legal team with exceptional depth and breadth of expertise.

What This Recognition Means for Our Clients

For clients, Super Lawyer recognition provides reassurance that their case is being handled by attorneys who are:

• Respected by their peers
• Proven in high-stakes litigation
• Committed to ethical and effective advocacy

As John J. Malm explains:

“Awards are never the goal, the goal is justice for our clients. But when our peers recognize our work, it reinforces that we’re doing things the right way and holding ourselves to the highest professional standards.”

Clients facing serious injuries, financial uncertainty, or life-altering events deserve representation from attorneys who are prepared, experienced, and fully committed to their recovery.

Looking Ahead

This year’s Super Lawyers selections mark an important chapter for our firm, but they also serve as motivation to continue raising the bar. Legal excellence is not static, it requires ongoing learning, adaptation, and dedication to clients’ evolving needs.

We remain focused on delivering results, advocating for accountability, and providing personalized legal representation to every client who entrusts us with their case.

Thank You to Our Clients and Community

We are honored to have five attorneys recognized as Super Lawyers, and we are deeply grateful to the clients, colleagues, and community members who made this achievement possible. Your trust drives our work and inspires us to continue fighting for those who need strong legal advocates.

If you or a loved one has been injured and need experienced representation, contact John J. Malm & Associates for a free, confidential consultation today. You deserve a legal team recognized for excellence, driven by integrity, and committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.

This award is not simply a reflection of our victories in the courtroom, it is a testament to the trust our clients place in us during some of the most difficult times of their lives. Being named one of the Top 10 Personal Injury Law Attorneys affirms that our dedication to compassion, integrity, and results truly sets our firm apart.

“Recognition like this belongs not just to our firm, but to every client who has trusted us to fight for them. We are deeply honored, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that victims of negligence receive the justice they deserve.” — John J. Malm, Naperville personal injury lawyer

What the Award Means

The Best of the Best Top 10 Personal Injury Law Attorney Award is given to a select group of lawyers across the country who demonstrate exceptional skill, dedication, and results in representing clients in personal injury matters. The recognition is highly competitive, with only a handful of attorneys nationwide selected each year.

To qualify, attorneys are evaluated on:

• Peer recognition and professional reputation in the legal community
• Trial experience and results, including settlements and verdicts
• Client satisfaction and testimonials
• Ethical standards and integrity in the practice of law
• Commitment to advancing the field of personal injury law

Being named among the Top 10 places our firm in an elite group of advocates recognized for their dedication to justice and client care.

Our Firm’s Approach to Personal Injury Cases

At John J. Malm & Associates, we believe that the practice of law is about more than just winning cases, it is about changing lives for the better. Our attorneys have devoted their careers to fighting for victims of:

• Car and truck accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Nursing home abuse and neglect
• Construction and workplace accidents
• Wrongful death claims
• Premises liability and slip-and-fall cases
• Dog bites and animal attacks

Every client’s story matters. We know that behind every case is a family dealing with pain, loss, and uncertainty. That’s why we approach each matter with compassion and commitment, treating clients with the respect and attention they deserve.

Why This Recognition Matters to Our Clients

Awards in the legal field are not just plaques on the wall, they are markers of trust, credibility, and proven performance. When a firm receives national recognition as one of the Top 10 Personal Injury Law Attorneys, it reassures clients that they are placing their case in capable hands.

For clients in Illinois, this recognition means:

• Confidence in your representation: You know that your attorneys have been vetted and recognized for their excellence.
• Proven results: Our firm has consistently secured significant settlements and verdicts that change lives.
• Client-first philosophy: This award reflects the satisfaction of past clients who have benefited from our advocacy.
• A voice against powerful opponents: Insurance companies and corporations often have endless resources; we have the skill and tenacity to stand up to them.

A Legacy of Results

Over the years, our firm has recovered over 100 million dollars on behalf of injured clients and families who have lost loved ones due to negligence. From multi-million dollar settlements in catastrophic injury cases to hard-fought trial victories against well-funded defendants, our results speak for themselves.

Some representative outcomes include:

• Recovering compensation for families after wrongful deaths caused by car and truck accidents
• Holding nursing homes accountable for abuse and neglect that harmed vulnerable residents
• Securing justice for victims of medical malpractice and birth injuries
• Representing workers injured in construction and workplace accidents who needed financial recovery for medical bills, lost wages, and future care

While no two cases are alike, our track record demonstrates a consistent ability to achieve meaningful results for those who need it most.

What Sets John J. Malm & Associates Apart

Our recognition as one of the Best of the Best’s Top 10 Personal Injury Law Attorneys reflects the qualities that define our firm:

• Client-Centered Representation: We take time to listen to our clients, understand their needs, and craft legal strategies that are tailored to their specific circumstances.
• Trial Experience: Many cases resolve in settlement, but when trial is necessary, we are prepared to present compelling arguments to judges and juries.
• Integrity and Compassion: Our work is guided by strong ethical principles and a commitment to treating every client with dignity and respect.
• Deep Knowledge of Illinois Law: With years of experience handling cases in Kane, DuPage, Cook, and surrounding counties, we know the courts, the statutes, and the local legal landscape.
• Relentless Advocacy: Insurance companies often aim to delay, deny, or minimize claims. We do not back down in the face of these tactics, we fight until our clients are treated fairly.

Recognition Beyond Awards

While being named to the Top 10 is an incredible honor, what matters most to our team is the feedback we receive directly from clients. Many have shared stories of how our representation provided not only financial recovery but also peace of mind and a sense of justice.

For us, awards like this reflect the values we hold dear:

• Accountability for wrongdoers
• Compassion for victims and families
• Dedication to justice in every case

“This award is meaningful because it reflects the hard work of our entire team. At John J. Malm & Associates, we are united by a single mission: to give our clients a voice and to secure the justice they deserve. Whether we are handling a catastrophic injury case or advocating for the rights of nursing home residents, our focus is always on the people we serve. We are grateful to Best of the Best for this recognition, and we are even more grateful to our clients for their trust.” – John J. Malm, Naperville injury attorney

Why This Award Matters for You

Being recognized among the Best of the Best Top 10 Personal Injury Law Attorneys is more than an accolade, it is a reflection of how seriously we take our duty to our clients. At John J. Malm & Associates, we know that when you come to us, you are facing one of the hardest moments of your life. You need a team that will listen, fight, and deliver results.

This award affirms that we are doing just that. It tells current and future clients that they can place their trust in us with confidence. And it reminds us that the fight for justice is worth every effort.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us put our award-winning experience to work for you.

For our clients and community, this recognition affirms what they already know: Rachel and Alyssa bring exceptional skill, relentless preparation, and deep compassion to every case. Their selection reflects our firm’s commitment to high-quality advocacy for people hurt through no fault of their own across Illinois.

“Rachel and Alyssa exemplify the very best of our profession: prepared, principled, and unwavering in their pursuit of justice for our clients,” said founding attorney John J. Malm. “This recognition from Best Lawyers is well-deserved and speaks to the results they achieve and the trust they’ve earned.”

What Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch Recognition Means

Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch highlights attorneys who are early in their careers but already performing at a high level. Unlike pay-to-play lists, Best Lawyers uses a peer-review process in which attorneys confidentially evaluate colleagues on professional ability, integrity, and client service. Being selected signals that other lawyers, often opposing counsel, respect how Rachel and Alyssa litigate: with meticulous case work, ethical advocacy, and consistent results.

Key takeaways about this honor:

• Peer-driven: Inclusion is based on confidential feedback from practicing lawyers, not advertising.
• Merit-focused: Recognition reflects the quality of advocacy, professionalism, and outcomes.
• Practice impact: It confirms that Rachel and Alyssa are go-to advocates in complex personal injury matters.

Why This Matters for Our Clients

Awards aren’t the reason we do this work, our clients are. But third-party recognition can be meaningful when you’re selecting a lawyer after a life-changing injury. Here’s how Rachel’s and Alyssa’s Ones to Watch selections translate to value for our clients:

• Credibility in negotiations: Defense firms and insurers recognize when they’re facing serious, well-prepared counsel. That credibility often drives fairer, faster resolutions.
• Courtroom readiness: Opposing counsel know Rachel and Alyssa will take a case to trial if necessary, and that pressure can move cases toward meaningful settlement.
• Client-centered advocacy: Recognition reflects real-world feedback and how consistently an attorney communicates, prepares clients, and delivers results.

Spotlight: Attorney Rachel Legorreta

Rachel’s approach is simple: listen closely, prepare relentlessly, and advocate fearlessly. She represents individuals and families in a wide range of Illinois personal injury cases, including car and truck accidents, dangerous property conditions, and claims involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death. Clients praise her calm, clear communication and her ability to turn complex facts into compelling, fact-driven arguments.

What sets Rachel apart:

• Strategic case building: From the first meeting, she maps out a litigation plan, identifying key records, experts, and timelines to keep the case moving.
• Detail mastery: Rachel’s filings and briefs are known for precision and clarity, grounding negotiations (and trials) in strong evidentiary foundations.
• Client-first mindset: She keeps clients informed at every milestone, translating legal jargon into practical next steps.

Spotlight: Attorney Alyssa Pullara

Alyssa is known for tenacious representation and genuine empathy. She thrives on complex liability questions and is unafraid to push for discovery that uncovers the truth, whether that involves EDR downloads in trucking cases, surveillance footage, or corporate safety manuals. Clients describe Alyssa as a steady hand during stressful moments: responsive, candid, and laser-focused on outcomes.

What sets Alyssa apart:

• Relentless fact-finding: Alyssa digs deeper, leveraging subpoenas, inspections, and expert collaboration to build leverage and prove damages.
• Negotiation leverage: She marries sharp legal analysis with a human story, presenting insurers with the risk of trial if they don’t put real value on a claim.
• Leadership and teamwork: Alyssa partners closely with our team, experts, and co-counsel so every case moves efficiently and strategically.

Our Firm’s Philosophy: People First, Results Focused

When someone is injured, they’re thrust into a system built by insurers: one that can feel cold, confusing, and stacked against them. At John J. Malm & Associates, our job is to re-balance the scales. We do that by:

• Early investigation: Preserving evidence, securing scene photos, vehicle data, and witness statements before memories fade.
• Medical clarity: Working with treating physicians and independent experts to connect the dots between mechanism of injury, diagnosis, and long-term effects.
• Transparent valuation: Explaining the categories of damages, such as medical costs, lost wages, loss of a normal life, disfigurement, and pain and suffering, so clients know what to expect.
• Trial readiness: Preparing every case as if it will be tried. That preparation drives better outcomes, whether at mediation, arbitration, or in front of a jury.

Rachel and Alyssa embody this approach. Their Ones to Watch selections affirm that when clients choose our firm, they’re choosing attorneys who combine legal skill with genuine compassion.

How Recognition Like This Improves Case Outcomes

Awards don’t decide cases, evidence and advocacy do. Still, honors like Ones to Watch matter in practical ways that can benefit clients:

1. Insurer perception: Claims adjusters track plaintiff’s firms and attorneys. When they see recognized counsel, they anticipate strong dossiers, credible experts, and real trial risk—often prompting earlier, more reasonable offers.
2. Courtroom credibility: Judges appreciate professionalism and well-crafted motions. Attorneys known for precision tend to win more procedural battles that shape the case’s trajectory.
3. Expert engagement: Top experts prefer to work with organized, serious trial teams. Recognition signals a professional environment where their work will be used effectively.
4. Client confidence: Recovering from an injury is a marathon. Knowing your case is in award-winning hands reduces stress and helps clients make informed, steady decisions.

John J. Malm & Associates: A Culture That Elevates Client Advocacy

We’re proud of Rachel and Alyssa, and we’re equally proud of the culture that helped them flourish:

• Mentorship and collaboration: Senior litigators actively mentor associates, sharing trial strategies, deposition frameworks, and motion practice templates.
• Community commitment: Our attorneys volunteer, speak at legal education programs, and support safety and victims’ advocacy groups across Illinois.
• Ethics and integrity: We practice with the long game in mind: your trust and the firm’s reputation. That means clear communication, honest case evaluations, and client-centered decisions.

What Clients Can Expect When Working With Rachel or Alyssa

From the initial consultation to final resolution, here’s how your case will move forward:

• Listening session: We start with your story, what happened, how it has affected your daily life, and your goals for the case.
• Evidence plan: We identify and secure records, witness statements, photos, video, and electronic data (including vehicle telemetry and 911 audio where applicable).
• Medical proof: We coordinate with your treating providers and, if needed, independent experts to document diagnosis, causation, and future care costs.
• Damages model: We build a clear, data-supported picture of economic losses and the human impact of your injuries.
• Negotiation & litigation: We push for fair settlement; if it’s not forthcoming, we prepare for trial, without flinching.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch?
It’s a peer-review recognition program that highlights early-career attorneys for outstanding professional excellence. Lawyers are nominated and evaluated by other attorneys, with editorial review to confirm eligibility and practice-area focus.

Does this recognition guarantee a result in my case?
No lawyer can guarantee a result. What this honor does reflect is consistent excellence, professionalism, and strong outcomes across many matters, qualities that can materially affect your case.

How do I know if Rachel or Alyssa is the right fit for my case?
Start with a consultation. We’ll review your situation, explain options, and outline how we’d approach your case. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of next steps, even if you decide not to hire us.

What kinds of cases do you handle?
We represent people injured by negligence across Illinois, including car accidents, pedestrian and bicycle collisions, dangerous property conditions, nursing home negligence, and cases involving catastrophic injury or wrongful death.

What will it cost to hire your firm?
We work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. We advance case costs and explain fees transparently before you sign.

How soon should I call a lawyer after an injury?
Immediately. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and insurers start building their defense right away. A prompt call helps us preserve critical proof and protect your rights.

A Message from Our Team

“Watching Rachel and Alyssa advocate for clients reminds us why we do this work,” said John J. Malm, Naperville personal injury lawyer. “Their Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch recognition is not just a badge; it’s a promise to every client who places their trust in our firm.”

We’re honored to stand beside Rachel and Alyssa as they receive this recognition, and even more honored to stand beside our clients as we seek the results, and the accountability, they deserve.

Contact the Award-Winning Illinois Personal Injury Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Contact our Illinois personal injury team today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with our dedicated injury attorneys. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and outline a clear plan to move forward. Let us put recognized, results-driven advocacy to work for you.

The Super Lawyers designation is a hallmark of excellence in the legal profession, awarded to only the top 5% of attorneys in each state after a rigorous selection process. We are thrilled that all six of our firm’s attorneys—John Malm, Marilynn Frangella, Jason Schneider, Sara Bendoff, Rachel Legorreta, and Alyssa Pullara—have received this distinguished recognition.

This recognition continues a long-standing tradition of excellence at John J. Malm & Associates, as several of our attorneys have been honored on the Super Lawyers or Rising Stars list for more than a decade. Their inclusion speaks volumes about the level of commitment our injury attorneys bring to every case and their role in setting the gold standard for personal injury representation across DuPage County, Kane County, and the State of Illinois.

What Makes Our Law Firm Exceptional? We Are A Team Of Super Lawyers Built For Justice.

To celebrate this achievement, John J. Malm himself shared his insights into the unique qualities of each attorney, highlighting what makes them integral to our firm and our clients’ success.

John Malm: Recognized by Super Lawyers since 2014.

As the firm’s founding attorney, John J. Malm has set the standard for personal injury law for more than three decades. John’s dedication to achieving justice is not only evident in his numerous professional accolades but also in the culture of excellence, compassion, and tenacity he has fostered at John J. Malm & Associates.

John has successfully handled a wide array of complex and high-stakes personal injury cases, including fatal accidents, medical malpractice claims, traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, catastrophic motor vehicle accidents, premises liability and construction defect claims, serious dog bite injury cases, nursing home abuse and neglect, complex product liability claims, and interstate trucking accidents. His commitment to his clients has helped them navigate life-altering challenges while securing millions in compensation, as each has justly deserved.

“I’m deeply honored to share this recognition with my entire team. Over the years, we’ve built a firm defined by integrity, compassion, and results. Personally, I strive to lead by example, but the credit truly belongs to the outstanding lawyers who work alongside me. This firm thrives because of their dedication, skill, and heart.” – John J. Malm, Naperville personal injury lawyer.

Marilynn Frangella: Recognized by Super Lawyers since 2025.

A seasoned attorney with a wealth of experience in complex personal injury cases, Marilynn is a litigation strategist at John J. Malm & Associates. She is particularly adept at managing challenging cases involving wrongful death, catastrophic injuries, and multi-party litigation, earning her a reputation as one of the best trial lawyers in the field.

“Marilynn’s skills as a trial attorney are unmatched. Her ability to navigate intricate cases and provide clarity for our clients is nothing short of remarkable. She has successfully tried more than 100 cases to verdict and continues to bring compassion to every client she represents. Moreover, she knows the insurance company’s playbook, having spent two decades representing insurance companies like State Farm from the other side. She is a force in the courtroom, and a savvy negotiator when a client’s settlement is on the line.  I am pleased to see her now be recognized for her exceptional work as a plaintiff’s advocate.” – John J. Malm, Illinois injury attorney.

Jason Schneider: Recognized by Super Lawyers since 2013.

Jason’s meticulous approach to case preparation and his sharp analytical mind have made him a key player in the firm’s success. Known for his ability to take case-winning depositions and craft compelling arguments, Jason has achieved significant settlements and verdicts in cases involving motor vehicle accidents, product liability, premises liability, sports injuries, and nursing home abuse and neglect.

“Jason’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence are unparalleled. He dives deep into every case, ensuring no stone is left unturned as he considers each witness and how he will take them on in deposition.  His ability to turn complex legal issues into clear, persuasive narratives at trial makes him an invaluable asset to our clients and our firm.”  Moreover, our clients enjoy his considered, intellectual approach to case strategy and often build lasting relationships with him. – John J. Malm, St. Charles accident attorney.

Sara Bendoff: Recognized by Super Lawyers since 2016.

Sara is a natural litigator, and her dedication to client advocacy is evident in her tireless work on behalf of individuals and families impacted by personal injury. With a background in negotiation and litigation, Sara’s results-driven mindset has led to numerous favorable outcomes in cases involving catastrophic injuries, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse and neglect, premises liability and workplace injuries.

“Sara is a formidable force in the courtroom and is often unmatched by even the most seasoned opponents in deposition.  But she is also very approachable and has an incredible way of connecting with clients and understanding their unique challenges. Her empathy and drive, along with her exceptional courtroom skills, ensure that every client’s case is handled with the utmost care as she prepares for deposition or trial.  Sara’s results speak for themselves, and her recognition is well-deserved.” – John J. Malm, Naperville nursing home abuse lawyer.

Rachel Legorreta: Recognized by Super Lawyers since 2021.

Rachel’s passion for justice and her ability to navigate the complexities of Illinois personal injury law have earned her a reputation for excellence. She is extremely analytical in her approach to litigation and particularly skilled in handling car accident claims, truck crashes, food poisoning cases, nursing home abuse and neglect, and product liability claims.  Rachel works tirelessly to carefully gather facts in discovery to ensure that her clients’ cases receive the best outcomes.

“Rachel is a fierce advocate for our clients, especially when going up against tough insurance company law firms.  She is also the most talented legal writer at our firm, having served as editor of several legal journals.  Her ability to combine tremendous analytical skills with a genuine care for her clients is truly inspiring.  She’s a rising star in every sense of the word, and her future in this profession is incredibly bright.” – John J. Malm, St. Charles personal injury lawyer

Alyssa Pullara: Recognized by Super Lawyers since 2022.

Alyssa has brought fresh energy and innovative thinking to the firm, excelling in cases involving car accidents, premises liability and other serious injuries. She knows the law and uses it to her client’s advantage to help them get the compensation they deserve.  Her meticulous research and persuasive legal writing have been instrumental in securing positive outcomes for our clients.

“Alyssa’s dedication and drive are evident in everything she does. She brings a fresh perspective to our team and consistently finds innovative ways to approach even the most complex cases. Her enthusiasm and talent make her a standout attorney and a vital part of our firm.” – John J. Malm, Naperville accident lawyer.

A Tradition of Excellence

The 2025 Super Lawyers recognition for our entire team reflects a commitment to the highest standards of personal injury representation. This achievement is a testament to the collective expertise and passion each attorney brings to our firm. For years, our focus on providing outstanding client service at  John J. Malm & Associates has been synonymous with excellence, and this distinction only strengthens our resolve to continue delivering exceptional results for our clients.

With over 90 years of combined experience representing individuals and families in DuPage County, Kane County, and throughout Illinois. The qualities celebrated by Super Lawyers—professionalism, dedication, and results—define who we are and how we serve our clients.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates?

At John J. Malm & Associates, we are passionate about pursuing justice for those who have suffered injury or loss. Our team of top-rated Illinois personal injury attorneys is dedicated to advocating for clients with integrity and compassion, committing both financial and intellectual resources to achieve successful outcomes.

When you choose our firm, you’re choosing a team of seasoned professionals who care deeply about your well-being. Whether we’re negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial, we fight tirelessly to secure the justice you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured, trust the award-winning attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates to guide you through the legal process. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve the results you need.