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January 27, 2026

Partner Holly L. Deihl Named ‘Woman of the Year’ by Duquesne Kline School of Law’s Women’s Law Association

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 Partner Holly L. Deihl has been named “Woman of the Year” for 2026 by the Duquesne Kline School of Law’s Women’s Law Association.

According to the organization, the Woman of the Year Award is given annually to a female alumna of Duquesne Kline School of Law who promotes gender equality, gives back to the community, demonstrates professionalism and leadership, and raises awareness about issues affecting women. She also maintains a meaningful connection with female Duquesne Kline Law students and pioneers a new path for women in the legal profession.

“Holly’s recognition as Woman of the Year is a powerful affirmation of the extraordinary leader she is within our firm and the legal community at large,” said Member Lauren Williams. “She is an exceptional attorney whose work reflects the highest standards of our profession, but what truly sets her apart is her commitment to mentoring and uplifting the next generation of lawyers – particularly women – by offering guidance, advocacy, and meaningful support at every stage of their careers.

“Holly leads with intention, integrity, and generosity, creating a lasting impact that extends far beyond any single case or role,” Williams continued. “This honor is incredibly well deserved, and we are fortunate to have her as a partner and trusted leader at SWMW Law.”

Deihl joined the firm in 2021, focusing her practice on helping individuals and families affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. She leads the firm’s Pittsburgh office and supervises a team of four attorneys and two paralegals. She received her undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University, Altoona College in 2001 and her J.D. from Duquesne University Kline School of Law in 2004.

An established and respected leader, Deihl has held several leadership positions in the legal community and beyond: Pennsylvania Association for Justice – Board of Governors (2024 – 2025); Hearing Committee Member serving the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania (2024 – present); Allegheny County Bar Association (ACBA) – Women in Law Division Chair (7/2024-12/2025); ACBA – Women in Law Division Chair-Elect (2023-2024); ACBA Bench Bar Planning Committee (2021 – present); ACBA Bench Bar Planning Committee – Chair (2023 – 2024); ACBA Bench Bar Planning Committee – Vice-Chair (2022 – 2023); Allegheny County Bar Foundation – Advocate Fellow (2022 – present); Western Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association – 5K Race Committee Member (2019 – present); Western Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association – Board of Governors Member (2024 – present); Pine Richland Baseball Boosters – Social Event Director (2020 – 2023); and Pine Richland Baseball Boosters – President (2023 – present).

Deihl’s recent accolade is not her first – she has received several awards throughout her career, including the Unsung Hero Award – The Legal Intelligencer – 2023; National Trial Lawyers Top 100 – 2017 and 2019; Best Attorneys in America – 2019; American Academy of Attorneys Top 100; American Institute of Legal Advocates – Elite Advocate – 2019; and Super Lawyers Rising Star Award – 2019.

Deihl will be honored during a reception held March 18.