SWMW Law, one of the top plaintiffs law firms in the country focused on representing victims of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, is proud to announce Asbestos Trust Manager Ja’nelle Herring has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Unsung Legal Hero Award from Missouri Lawyers Media. The prestigious award recognizes the legal professionals whose dedication, leadership, and behind-the-scenes contributions are essential to the success of Missouri’s legal community.
Herring joined SWMW Law in 2018 as a paralegal. Her prior work experience was focused on family law, and she joined the firm’s Asbestos Bankruptcy Trust Department with little knowledge about an asbestos practice. Through determination, a relentless work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to serving clients, she quickly became an indispensable member of the team. She was promoted to Lead Paralegal in 2020 before assuming her current role as Asbestos Trust Manager in 2022.
Today, Herring oversees a team of eight paralegals while helping ensure thousands of asbestos bankruptcy trust claims are handled accurately, efficiently, and with compassion. She mentors employees, develops department processes, resolves complex trust issues, and works tirelessly to help clients diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases obtain the compensation they deserve.
“Ja’nelle embodies everything SWMW Law strives to be,” said Member Lauren Williams, who leads the firm’s Asbestos Bankruptcy Trust Department. “She leads with compassion, serves with humility, and inspires everyone around her to be better. She has an extraordinary ability to balance exceptional technical knowledge with genuine care for both our clients and our team. This recognition is incredibly well deserved, and I couldn’t be prouder to see her honored as an Unsung Legal Hero.”
Throughout her career, Herring has become known not only for her expertise in asbestos trust administration, but also for her commitment to developing others. Colleagues regularly turn to her for guidance, mentorship, and encouragement, and she has helped shape a department built on collaboration, accountability, and empathy.
Her dedication extends well beyond the office. Herring serves on her church’s council board, assists with church administration, and participates on the worship team. She is also active in outreach efforts supporting homeless individuals, youth, and older adults in her community. During the holiday season, she volunteers alongside fellow SWMW Law employees to purchase gifts for children in foster care and serve meals to individuals experiencing food insecurity.
The Unsung Legal Hero Award honors legal support professionals across Missouri whose work often takes place behind the scenes but has a profound impact on their organizations, clients, and the legal profession.
“Our mission has always been ‘Because People Matter,’” Williams said. “Ja’nelle lives those words every day. She has made an immeasurable difference in the lives of our clients, strengthened our team, and helped build the culture we’re so proud of. We are thrilled to celebrate this incredible honor with her.”
To learn more about the Unsung Legal Hero Awards, visit this link.