Las Vegas, NV – September 9, 2025 – Michaelson Law, a premier Southern Nevada law firm founded in 1992 and renowned for its client-focused business and estate planning services, is proud to announce that four of its attorneys have earned recognition in the Super Lawyers 2025 lists. John Michaelson and Patrick McDonnell have been selected to the Super Lawyers list, while Matthew Whittaker and Kate Ludwick have been named Rising Stars. Only the top 5% of attorneys in Nevada are named Super Lawyers, and just 2.5% achieve Rising Stars status—making this a remarkable collective achievement for the firm.
About Michaelson Law
Founded by Paul R. Michaelson in 1992, Michaelson Law has grown into a top-rated firm offering expertise in business law, estate planning, probate, litigation, guardianship, and elder law. With over 30 years of service, the firm remains committed to transparent communication, tailored strategies, and outstanding client care. Today, Michaelson Law counts more than 25 attorneys and support staff among its ranks.
Attorney Highlights
John P. Michaelson, CEO, leads Michaelson Law’s business and estate planning practice. Since joining the firm in 2003, he has developed sophisticated legal strategies for high-net-worth individuals, families, and business clients. His strengths include asset protection, tax planning, entity structuring, and multigenerational wealth transfer. John is active in leadership roles across professional organizations, including WealthCounsel, ElderCounsel, and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, and formerly chaired the Elder Law Section of the Nevada State Bar.
Patrick C. McDonnell, Attorney, is a seasoned litigator specializing in civil and commercial disputes in Nevada’s state and federal courts. A graduate of the Boyd School of Law at UNLV, he earned cum laude honors, served as lead articles editor for the Nevada Law Journal, and received awards for excellence in legal writing and litigation courses. His background as an investigative reporter has contributed to his analytical prowess in the courtroom.
Matthew Whittaker, Attorney, focuses on complex business and estate litigation. A native Nevadan and Boyd Law graduate, he brings more than a decade of experience, including drafting appellate briefs at the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, and handling commercial, civil, real estate, and bankruptcy litigation. His skill in navigating contentious legal issues provides clients with strong, strategic representation.
Kate Ludwick, Attorney, is dedicated to probate and guardianship matters, assisting families with estate administration and guardianship proceedings. A 2021 graduate of Boyd Law, Kate brings compassion and clarity to often challenging situations, offering practical solutions tailored to each family’s needs.
About Super Lawyers
Super Lawyers is a national rating service identifying exceptional attorneys in over 70 practice areas, based on peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process involves a statewide peer survey, independent research, and practice-area review. Final lists are published in Super Lawyers magazines and distributed via top city and regional publications.