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 Sophie Zavaglia has been recognized by Missouri Lawyers Media as a Women’s Justice Award winner. The prestigious honor celebrates women in the legal profession who demonstrate exceptional skill, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Based in the firm’s St. Louis office, Zavaglia is widely respected for her exceptional legal skill, compassionate advocacy, and unwavering commitment to clients facing some of life’s most devastating diagnoses. As a partner and team leader at SWMW Law, she plays a critical role in the firm’s success, contributing in meaningful ways to each case on an active docket, while mentoring attorneys and staff and shaping case strategy at the highest level.
“Sophie has built something rare in this profession – a legacy defined not just by verdicts, but by the lives she’s changed. In 11 years of working alongside her, I’ve seen her transform from a newly licensed associate into a partner who anchors this firm,” said Member Steve Wohlford. “She takes on cases that others might find overwhelming – clients who are running out of time, families desperate for justice – and she delivers. Sophie doesn’t just practice law. She lives it, breathes it, and gives it everything she has. This award honors exactly the kind of attorney and person she is, and we couldn’t be prouder of her.”
Zavaglia’s career has been defined by both excellence and impact. Since joining the firm in 2014, she has risen from a newly licensed associate to one of its most trusted leaders. She regularly conducts complex depositions, prepares cases for trial, negotiates favorable resolutions, and has served in both first- and second-chair roles at trial. In 2023, she secured nearly $10 million in a mesothelioma case on behalf of the family of a young mother, delivering justice in a profoundly meaningful way.
Beyond her litigation success, Zavaglia is known for her deeply personal approach to client advocacy. She works closely with families navigating mesothelioma diagnoses – an aggressive and often fatal disease – moving swiftly to preserve testimony and pursue justice while time is limited. Her empathy and dedication often foster lasting relationships that extend well beyond the resolution of a case.
In 2022, Zavaglia was promoted to team leader, where she now supervises attorneys and paralegals while overseeing discovery and trial strategy. Her leadership style is rooted in empowerment, taking the time to understand each team member’s strengths and helping them grow professionally. Her influence is felt not only within the firm, but across the broader legal community.
A recognized voice in asbestos litigation, Zavaglia frequently speaks at national conferences and has authored articles on complex legal issues, including those affecting women in the profession. In 2025, she expanded her impact by becoming an adjunct professor at Saint Louis University School of Law, where she helps educate and inspire the next generation of attorneys.
Zavaglia’s commitment to justice also extends into the community. She has served on the St. Louis Demolition Task Force to help reduce asbestos exposure risks, held leadership roles supporting small businesses, and remains actively involved in organizations such as the American Lung Association, where she serves on their Leadership Board and spearheads fundraising efforts through programs like the Fight for Air Climb. She also supports youth leadership initiatives and educational programs throughout the region.
Zavaglia’s recognition as a Women’s Justice Award winner underscores her profound contributions to her clients, her colleagues, and the legal profession. Through her leadership, advocacy, and service, she continues to set a standard of excellence that defines what it means to be a true champion of justice.