Top Lawyers Recognized at McAfee & Taft: Key Insights for Insurance Professionals

For an impressive fourth consecutive year, eight attorneys from McAfee & Taft have been honored in the 2026 Oklahoma Super Lawyers’ list of “Top 50 Lawyers.”

The distinguished selection encompasses both the firm’s Oklahoma City and Tulsa offices, highlighting their legal prowess. Those celebrated through a rigorous selection process include Rachel Blue, Courtney Bru, J. Craig Buchan, Mary Quinn Cooper, Kiran A. Phansalkar, Phil R. Richards, Patricia A. Rogers, and Susan B. Shields. Notably, Rachel Blue and Mary Quinn Cooper were also acknowledged among the Top 10 attorneys in Oklahoma, underscoring their exceptional contributions to the legal field.

Expertise Across Diverse Practice Areas

Rachel Blue stands out for her work in intellectual property law, leveraging her experience as a former trademark examining attorney at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Her practice includes trademark issues, franchise law, and entertainment law. Meanwhile, Courtney Bru has distinguished herself by advising management on labor and employment litigation and risk reduction strategies, contributing to legal thought leadership through publications and speaking engagements.

Craig Buchan, with training from Stanford Law School and membership in the American Board of Trial Advocates, focuses on complex business disputes and medical device litigation. Mary Quinn Cooper, a national trial lawyer, is lauded for her expertise in product liability and class action cases, while Kiran A. Phansalkar excels in business litigation and transactions, with recognition from the Litigation Counsel of America.

Focus on Insurance and Compliance

Phil R. Richards, known for his acumen in insurance law, has defended national insurers in coverage disputes. His professional accolades include fellowships in prestigious legal bodies. Patricia A. Rogers, a leader in healthcare regulatory compliance, specializes in HIPAA regulations, contributing significantly to McAfee & Taft’s compliance team. Susan B. Shields rounds out the group with her specialization in tax planning and wealth management for high-net-worth clients, recognized by the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel.

Implications for Legal and Insurance Practice

The repeated recognition of these attorneys not only emphasizes McAfee & Taft’s dominance in legal circles but also highlights broader trends in legal practice, particularly in insurance and compliance. Their expertise suggests a growing demand for specialized legal services that address complex regulatory and compliance landscapes, especially relevant for insurance professionals navigating intricate legal frameworks and coverage disputes.

Key Takeaways for Insurance Professionals

• Legal Expertise: Attorneys with deep specialization in insurance and regulatory law are crucial in addressing complex compliance issues.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, such as HIPAA, is essential for minimizing legal risks.
• Coverage Disputes: The role of seasoned litigators in defending against complex insurance claims is increasingly significant.
• Estate Planning: Expertise in tax and wealth management is invaluable in crafting strategies for high-net-worth clients.

The acknowledgement of McAfee & Taft’s attorneys underscores the crucial role of legal professionals in guiding insurance firms through regulatory compliance, litigation, and strategic planning in today’s intricate insurance environment.