Forty Under 40: Maggie Benson

Maggie Benson has been a standout performer as a lawyer, from her days in private practice in Arkansas to her career as an in-house lawyer at Tyson Foods.

While in private practice, Benson was recognized as a Rising Star by SuperLawyers and among the Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers.

She worked as in-house counsel at Tyson’s labor and employment group in November 2021.

As senior counsel in the corporate litigation sector, Benson is primarily responsible for a slate of commercial disputes across Tyson’s businesses.

In addition to working with Tyson’s outside counsel, Benson has her own docket of matters in which she acts as Tyson’s lead counsel. She has briefed and argued issues in state and federal court on Tyson’s behalf.

Benson is also a member of the law department’s pro bono committee.

Before entering her legal practice, Benson was a district aide to former U.S. Rep. Vic Snyder, D-Little Rock. She has a bachelor’s degree in politics from Hendrix College, a master’s degree in public service from the University of Arkansas’ Clinton School of Public Service and a law degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Bowen School of Law.

Benson’s goals have changed since she started working for Tyson and in the private sector.

“For many years, I was really focused on a future in government as a judge if I could be elected or appointed,” she said. “Since I’ve been in the private sector, I think my goals have broadened. I love the vast scope of work in a company. I love learning a little bit about a lot of things. So, a future role as a general counsel in some Arkansas company would be among my goals.”