Chicago Partners Susan Best and Diane Webster have been named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2026 list of Notable Leaders in Accounting, Consulting & Law, recognizing professionals whose work is helping shape Chicago’s business community, civic life and legal landscape.
The annual recognition highlights accomplished firm leaders, trial lawyers, advisers, dealmakers, consultants and practice leaders who guide clients through complex litigation, transactions, regulatory change and growth. This year’s honorees represent a broad range of industries and disciplines and include professionals leading teams, offices, and national practices while advising clients on significant, high-stakes matters.
Best is an accomplished trial lawyer who represents public and private entities in complex employment and commercial litigation. She counsels employers on workplace and compliance matters including Title IX, anti-discrimination policies, accommodations, leave management and employment best practices. She was previously recognized by Law Bulletin Media among Illinois’ “40 Under Forty” attorneys and as a 2025 Top Women in Law honoree.
Webster is a highly accomplished trial lawyer who focuses her practice on complex, high-exposure civil litigation. She is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, an invitation-only organization whose membership is limited to no more than 1% of lawyers in any state or province. She has also been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America, by Illinois Super Lawyers and as the 2024 Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois Latina Lawyer of the Year.
Best and Webster are among 135 professionals selected by Crain’s Chicago Business for the 2026 recognition, reflecting the breadth and influence of Chicago’s accounting, consulting and legal communities.
Read the full list of 2026 Notable Leaders in Accounting, Consulting & Law. Subscription may be required.