In an unexpected twist in the legal community, renowned civil litigator Roberta Kaplan has secured a prestigious third place in a survey identifying the top attorneys people would call for white-collar legal issues. Despite her focus primarily on civil law, Kaplan's recognition on this list underscores her formidable reputation and legal prowess.

Kaplan, known for her strong stance against bullying and injustice, expressed her honor in being highly ranked among criminal defense lawyers, a field outside her usual practice. "While I don’t practice criminal (only civil) law, I do have an aversion to bullies and so I am honored to be ranked so highly on a list of people to call if you are in trouble," Kaplan stated in comments to Bloomberg Law.

This ranking was part of a survey that sought to identify the lawyers readers would most likely turn to if faced with white-collar legal challenges. Kaplan's placement is particularly noteworthy given her focus has not been on criminal law but rather on complex civil litigation.

Alex Spiro, a lawyer known for representing high-profile clients and a partner at Quinn Emanuel, topped the list, highlighting his continued influence and trust within the legal community for criminal defense matters.

The survey, reflecting the preferences and perceptions of the legal community, suggests that reputation and results in any legal sphere can significantly influence public confidence. Kaplan’s inclusion in this ranking not only highlights her cross-functional legal influence but also her perceived ability to handle high-stakes legal issues, regardless of the specific domain.

The accolade is a testament to Kaplan's impact and the respect she commands across the broader legal landscape, reinforcing her status as a legal heavyweight capable of navigating complex legal waters with finesse and authority.