In the heart of Washington, D.C.’s legal community, Wayne R. Cohen has become synonymous with powerful client representation, high-profile litigation wins, and a deep-rooted commitment to justice. His career spans more than thirty years and reflects a steady climb from determined law student to one of the most respected personal injury attorneys in the region.

From the Lecture Hall to the Legal Arena

Cohen’s legal path began with strong academic achievements. After earning his undergraduate degree with honors from the University of Michigan in 1988, he graduated cum laude from the University of Miami School of Law in 1991. Just two years later, in 1993, he launched Cohen & Cohen, P.C. in Washington, D.C., a bold move that marked the start of one of the city’s most prominent personal injury firms. Rather than follow a traditional law firm path, Cohen built his own practice from the ground up. This entrepreneurial spirit and his willingness to take calculated risks early in his career set the tone for what was to come. It wasn’t long before Washingtonian Magazine took notice, naming him among D.C.’s “Top 40 Lawyers Under 40.” The recognition confirmed what clients already knew: Cohen was an emerging force in personal injury law.

Relentless Representation and Results

Cohen quickly gained a reputation for his no-nonsense approach to litigation and his unwavering commitment to his clients. Over the years, he has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for victims of serious injuries through both verdicts and settlements. But these numbers tell a deeper story they represent lives restored and families supported after devastating events. By the early 2000s, Cohen’s consistent performance and case outcomes placed him alongside the region’s most well-established attorneys. Multiple legal publications, including Washingtonian, began regularly including him in their annual “Top Lawyer” selections. His aggressive yet strategic courtroom presence earned praise and made Cohen & Cohen a go-to firm for personal injury matters in D.C.

A Firm Built on Trial-Ready Strategies

Cohen has always treated each case as though it could go to trial. This approach signals to insurance carriers that lowball offers won’t be accepted. As a result, his firm is known for securing fair settlements without compromising the client’s right to a full recovery. Clients trust Cohen & Cohen not just for the outcomes, but for the respect, communication, and support they receive throughout the legal process.

Educator, Mentor, and Advocate

Alongside his legal work, Cohen has spent decades giving back to the legal community through teaching. Since 1993, he has served as an adjunct professor at The George Washington University Law School, where he teaches trial advocacy. His experience as a litigator informs his teaching, offering students real-world skills and insight from one of the area’s top practitioners. Cohen has also taken leadership roles beyond the classroom. He previously served as president of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C., and chaired important committees within the D.C. Bar. His participation in these organizations reflects a broader mission: to elevate legal standards and improve the justice system for future generations.

Media Engagement and High-Stakes Litigation

Cohen’s legal acumen has also made him a sought-after commentator on national media platforms. He has appeared on networks including ABC, NBC, FOX, and the Today Show, where he’s provided perspective on trending legal issues such as driverless car crashes, high-profile personal injury cases, and sports-related controversies. Throughout his career, Cohen has handled a wide variety of complex injury cases, from medical malpractice and wrongful death to catastrophic car accidents and defective product claims. While confidentiality limits public access to case details, many of his results have drawn media attention. His aggressive courtroom tactics, often described as bold and fearless, have earned the admiration of clients and headlines alike. In fact, The Wall Street Journal once described Cohen’s legal style as “brash and enterprising,” noting his background as a trained amateur boxer. That competitive spirit, refined in the ring and honed in the courtroom continues to define his legal persona today.

Recognition and Industry Accolades

Cohen’s career has been marked by a steady stream of awards and honors. He has been named one of Washingtonian’s “Top Lawyers” multiple times and is a longtime member of The National Trial Lawyers’ “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” list for Washington, D.C. He has also earned a consistent place on the Super Lawyers list for several years, including 2011 through 2016, a distinction awarded to only a small fraction of attorneys based on peer nominations and professional achievement.

What Drives Success

Behind Cohen’s success is a core combination of persistence, client-focused service, and adaptability to the ever-changing legal landscape. He is known not only for his ability to win cases but also for the relationships he builds with clients, marked by trust, transparency, and genuine care.

Continuing the Legacy

Today, Wayne Cohen remains a key figure in D.C. legal circles. His firm continues to expand its services into Maryland and Virginia, reaching more clients while maintaining the high standards that defined its early years. From the courtroom to the classroom, Cohen’s influence is felt across every corner of the legal field.

To learn more about Cohen & Cohen or explore their legal services, visit cohenandcohen.net.