Barry D. Szaferman, co-managing partner of Szaferman Lakind, was honored by the New Jersey State Bar Association with the Professional Lawyer of the Year Award during the 2026 Professionalism Awards Luncheon held at Forsgate Country Club in Monroe Township.
Presented by the New Jersey Commission on Professionalism in the Law, the annual award recognizes attorneys throughout the state who demonstrate integrity, leadership, collegiality, and dedication to the practice of law.
The Professional Lawyer of the Year Award is regarded as one of New Jersey’s most distinguished legal honors, recognizing attorneys whose careers reflect ethics, civility, public service, and commitment to the profession. Recipients are selected through their local county bar associations and recognized statewide by the New Jersey State Bar Association.
Barry has spent decades serving clients, the legal profession, and the Mercer County community. In addition to representing individuals, families, and businesses throughout New Jersey, he has held numerous leadership positions within both legal and civic organizations. He previously served as President of the Mercer County Bar Association and the Mercer County Bar Foundation, and as Mercer County Trustee to the New Jersey State Bar Association.
Throughout his career, Barry has earned a reputation for sound judgment, steady leadership, and a commitment to mentoring younger attorneys. His practice has included complex family law matters, business transactions, commercial real estate, and cases involving substantial financial and valuation issues. He has also served as Mercer County Counsel and General Counsel to the Mercer County Improvement Authority.
“Barry’s recognition reflects the tremendous respect he has earned throughout New Jersey’s legal community over many decades,” said Brian G. Paul, co-managing partner of Szaferman Lakind. “He has spent his career proving that true legal excellence is not measured only by the ability to master complex matters, but by the judgment, integrity, civility, and respect one brings to clients, colleagues, and adversaries alike. Having had the privilege of practicing alongside him and watching him set that example firsthand, I know how deeply ingrained those values are in his daily practice. Our entire firm is immensely proud to celebrate this distinguished honor with him.”
Barry has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including recognition in The Best Lawyers in America®and New Jersey Super Lawyers. He has also maintained Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent® rating for more than 30 years.
The Professional Lawyer of the Year Award recognizes Barry’s accomplished legal career and his longstanding contributions to clients, colleagues, and the broader legal community. The honor reflects the respect and admiration he has earned through decades of service, leadership, professionalism, and dedication to others.
