Matthew Dowling Recognized as 2026 Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star

Matthew S. Dowling, a partner at Plunkett Cooney, has been named a “Rising Star” in the 2026 edition of Illinois Super Lawyers magazine for his work in civil litigation. This recognition highlights Dowling’s significant contributions and expertise in defending corporations against complex commercial litigation and product liability claims.

Dowling, based in the firm’s Chicago office, has built a robust practice that includes defending clients in wrongful death cases stemming from transportation accidents. Illinois Super Lawyers, published by Thomson Reuters, utilizes a comprehensive selection process that includes peer nominations, independent research, and evaluations by a qualified panel of attorneys. Candidates are assessed on twelve criteria related to professional achievement and peer recognition, with no more than 2.5 percent of eligible attorneys receiving the Rising Star designation each year.

To qualify for this honor, candidates must be either under 40 years of age or have been licensed to practice law for ten years or less. Dowling has consistently earned this recognition since 2018, reflecting his dedication and effectiveness in a variety of legal matters. His client base spans multiple industries, including aviation, logistics, trucking, and ride-sharing services.

In his role, Dowling has successfully navigated cases involving contract disputes, catastrophic injuries linked to product failures, and negligence claims arising from accidents. He also represents professionals such as attorneys, real estate agents, and architects in malpractice claims.

Dowling is licensed to practice in both Michigan and Illinois, including state and federal courts. He is a member of the American Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, and the Chicago Bar Association, as well as the State Bar of Michigan. He earned his law degree from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law in 2013 and completed his undergraduate studies at Indiana University Bloomington in 2010.

Founded in 1913, Plunkett Cooney is recognized as a leading provider of business law and litigation services for both public and private sector clients. The firm operates in seven locations across Michigan, as well as in Chicago, Illinois, Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis, Indiana. It has received the highest rating (AV) from Martindale-Hubbell, a respected peer review service, and has been acknowledged by Best Lawyers as one of the nation’s top law firms.

Additionally, Plunkett Cooney has achieved the Mansfield Rule Certification Plus 2024-2025, which recognizes firms that demonstrate leadership in diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal industry.

For further details regarding Matthew Dowling’s recognition as an “Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star,” interested parties can reach out to the firm’s Director of Marketing and Business Development, John Cornwell, at (248) 901-4008 or via email at [email protected].