In this week’s issue of The National Law Journal, we recognize Washington lawyers for work that has advanced the practice of law — the champions who have upheld the legal industry’s professional mission of public duty and the visionaries who have looked at the road ahead.

Seven of the 40 lawyers recognized this year are general counsel in American corporations, charitable organizations and governement agencies. These legal department leaders have steered their organizations through a stagnant economy, legal thickets and overseas mergers.