Danielle Rushing Behrends Named to ABA’s 2026 On the Rise – Top 40 Young Lawyers

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced that Danielle Rushing Behrends, a Member in the firm’s Restructuring and Bankruptcy Practice Group, has been named to the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division’s 2026 On the Rise – Top 40 Young Lawyers list, a national recognition honoring 40 young lawyers who exemplify outstanding professional achievement, innovation, leadership, and service to the legal profession and their communities.

The ABA’s annual On the Rise – Top 40 Young Lawyers Award recognizes young lawyers nationwide who have distinguished themselves through excellence in the practice of law, leadership within the profession, and meaningful community service.

“The ABA Young Lawyers Division is proud to recognize this year’s On the Rise Top 40 honorees. These exceptional young lawyers exemplify the talent, leadership, and dedication that are shaping the future of our profession,” said Brandon H. Riches, chair of the division. “Through their commitment to excellence in practice, service to their communities, and contributions to the legal profession, they have distinguished themselves as leaders among their peers.”

Behrends represents clients in complex restructuring, bankruptcy, litigation, and distressed matters across a wide range of industries. She advises debtors, creditors, trustees, receivers, and other stakeholders in sophisticated commercial matters, helping clients navigate financially challenging situations through practical legal and business solutions.

In addition to her legal practice, Behrends is actively involved in numerous professional and community organizations. She previously served as Chair of the ABA Young Lawyers Division Bankruptcy Law Committee and remains active in leadership roles with several national, state, and local legal organizations. She is also deeply committed to pro bono service and mentoring the next generation of attorneys.

Behrends has received numerous professional honors throughout her career, including the American Bar Association’s 20/20 Partners Rising Young Leader Award, the Bexar County Women’s Bar Association and Foundation Belva Lockwood Outstanding Young Lawyer Award, and the St. Mary’s University School of Law Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) 10 Under 10 Award.

The ABA Young Lawyers Division will recognize the 2026 On the Rise – Top 40 Young Lawyers honorees during the ABA Annual Meeting in Chicago on Aug. 1.