Litigation: New Jersey

THE FIRM Anderson Kill enjoys a well-deserved national reputation for defending the rights of insurance policyholders, and its profile in New Jersey remains high. Its work for franchisees of fast-food chain Taco Bell has underlined its reputation for handling food and beverage contamination claims. Members of the team also have experience of acting on insurance cases for environmental and real estate-related pollution liabilities. Its experience of handling insurance claims is further complemented by a broad range of client-oriented coverage seminars and training programs.

Sources say: "A top-notch firm for any insurance coverage disputes. They are engaged in battles with firms representing insurance companies all the time. We have been tremendously satisfied with their work product."

KEY INDIVIDUALS "Trustworthy, personable" Steven Pudell is admired for his "creative efforts and willingness to put the effort into getting work done on time." He leads a team of six insurance litigators in the state.

THE FIRM Although the market perceives this as a comparatively compact team, the same sources are quick to note the concentration of talent that exists here. The group includes a number of former prosecutors who are well versed in securities litigation, white-collar crime and, to a certain degree, noncriminal business disputes. It also provides auditing to weed out and mitigate any potential regulatory problems. Members of the practice are able to draw on their collective experiences of having advised a broad cross-section of clients.  

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jack Arseneault is a longstanding figurehead of the white-collar crime legal community in New Jersey, and has "an immense amount of trial expertise," according to interviewees. His tenacity is cited as a key strength, with peers confirming that he "always commits the utmost to defending the client's interests." John Whipple also attracts plaudits for his brilliant defense of criminal charges, and is well known among the state Bar for his work.

THE FIRM UK headquartered Clyde & Co recently brought its expertise of representing both national and multijurisdictional insurance carriers to the state of New Jersey, where it is now enjoying a burgeoning reputation. Commentators have taken sharp notice of the group's strengths across a number of areas, ranging from bad faith and general liability claims to class action defense. Clients can also take advantage of the team's involvement in Bermuda arbitration and reinsurance cases.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Daren McNally is most commonly cited as the team's standout attorney and can apply his understanding of a mass of claims to deal with any challenges facing the firm's insurance clients. Sources underline his "outstanding reputation" and "first-class networking abilities."

THE FIRM This firm earns its position in the rankings thanks to an excellent base of clients and its nurturing of an impressive level of talent. It attracts a high level of recognition for its work on bankruptcy litigation, yet it also maintains an understanding of general business disputes, including liability, tax and insurance claims. Its footprint straddles the tristate area and it is able to take on matters before the state and federal courts.

Sources say: "They have sound bench strength and the experience to match it."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Steven Klein can be brought in to deal with even the most difficult of cases, sources confirm, and he boasts a wide array of civil litigation experience. He is also a successful arbitrator and appellate attorney. Leo Leyva is identified as one of the group's most seasoned corporate litigation attorneys, as is Michael Meisel, who earns the commendation of interviewees for his "brilliant courtroom advocacy."

THE FIRM Despite its already accomplished position in the insurance litigation market, the team is thought to be gaining further traction in New Jersey and is known to be representing a top-notch clientele. It guides both insurance and reinsurance carriers on modeling coverage exposure, helping them to mitigate litigation risks. However, it also has the tools and talent on hand to defend a spectrum of concerns ranging from regulatory disputes to class actions. 

Sources say: "A successful team that goes all out for clients. A force to be reckoned with in the Northeast region."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Feedback indicates that Kevin Coughlin is a "talented professional who is well regarded by the courts and his peers." He is a seasoned practitioner and founding member of the firm who enjoys the confidence of many clients in the insurance industry. Kevin Wolff also contributes an essential part of the team's overall offering and is held in great esteem by peers for his grasp of insurance law.

THE FIRM This firm is best known for taking on heavy-duty white-collar work before a mixture of federal and state agencies. It advises senior executives both in proceedings brought against them and in conducting audits to root out any potentially criminal behavior by employees. Practitioners also engage in civil business litigation for clients from an array of sectors.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Critchley is deemed the firm's premier white-collar attorney and possesses a "colossal reputation for his experience of the most complex of cases." He commands a "truly outstanding presence" in the courtroom as a result of his track record.

THE FIRM Day Pitney has secured work from a legion of industry leading clients thanks to its impressive bench strength and reputation for success. It has taken matters to trial in both state and federal courts on a broad sweep of concerns, spanning business disputes, products liability suits and white-collar criminal defense. An interlocking set of complementary skills held by different members of the group means that it can provide drafting, litigation avoidance strategies and advocacy expertise where required. In particular, practitioners have shown their mettle in a raft of financial services and lender liability suits this year.

Sources say: "A high-quality firm that details sound practical advice and always manages to allocate the best people to each case. They are thorough, prompt and professional."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Ben Haglund is greatly valued for the "diplomacy and tact" that he deploys to good effect in defending sensitive products liability claims. His efficiency in responding rapidly and accurately is also noted by clients, who assert that he will "make himself available at any time." Dennis LaFiura is deemed a "fine lawyer with a skillful approach" to business litigation, covering everything from franchising disputes to securities and consumer products cases. Anthony Marchetta is a widely recognized figure as a result of his excellent civil litigation practice, an accomplishment that makes him a popular choice for many a client. "Solidly reliable" John O'Reilly has attracted the attention of the market for his involvement in white-collar cases, representing clients in both state and federal prosecution proceedings. Clients note that Joy Sperling deserves special merit for her "brilliantly efficient and methodical approach to litigation." As one source notes, her "appetite for getting down to brass tacks has saved us a great deal in cost." She maintains a niche in defending consumer-lending institutions. Although previously listed as a criminal practitioner, Dennis Kearney has earned greater recognition for his excellent civil litigation defense work, which most recently includes several fraud cases. 

THE FIRM Dechert maintains its position as one of the state's go-to products liability groups thanks to its deep bench strength and recognized strategic abilities. This is a national and international firm, making it the ideal choice for protracted multidistrict cases, and invests a great deal of resources in helping clients avoid or deter actions before they arise. The team commands a towering reputation among pharmaceutical companies such as Merck and Astra-Zeneca, and has been retained by Pfizer over impending hormone therapy litigation. It also acts for a wide number of clients involved in manufacturing consumer goods, chemicals and tobacco products.

Sources say: "A large team of client-focused, attentive and highly responsive attorneys with a first-rate understanding of products liability."

KEY INDIVIDUALS "Superbly insightful" Ezra Rosenberg is well liked by clients, who admire his dedication to their interests. He can handle a wide range of products liability issues, but is perhaps most highly prized for his trial expertise.

THE FIRM This team houses noteworthy strength in the fields of products liability and insurance law, although it can also be called on to act in a vast range of business litigation. Clients can tap into the team's extensive trial expertise, which includes appearances before state and federal courts. Recent cases of note include a number of consumer fraud and commercial lending disputes. Drinker Biddle also attracts positive feedback for its steady white-collar defense practice.

Sources say: "An outstanding group with long experience and a good market share that is rapidly gaining ground on its competitors."

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Altieri leads the charge on the insurance litigation side and has a wealth of expertise in handling coverage and bad faith disputes. One source comments that he is "a well-respected trailblazer" in the market. Simply put, Thomas Campion is a "source of strength that any of his peers would feel comfortable turning to." He is an accomplished trial lawyer, and is as well known for his commercial litigation expertise as for his grasp of complex products liability suits. Paul Nittoly has handled an array of government investigations and enforcement proceedings for his clients, including both corporate entities and individuals. Susan Sharko has consolidated a national reputation for pharmaceutical defense, PI and products liability work. "She has a fabulous understanding of this area," commentators note.

THE FIRM Gibbons is home to one of the state's largest teams of commercial litigators and it has continued to expand in size with the addition of several new attorneys. It services the widest possible range of business disputes and has been extremely active in areas such as securities, consumer fraud and stockholder litigation suits. The team conducts its operations from a national perspective and has taken an active interest in recruiting former judicial law clerks to its ranks. Highlights include defending Brother International against claims brought by purchasers of the company's ink-jet printers. Its products liability practice continues to take great strides in defending the interests of the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. Notable features of the team here include its representation of Stryker and Hoffmann-La Roche. The firm's business crime group has also notched up several successful outcomes at trial.

Sources say: "A wonderful team with an undeniably strong bench strength and a reputation for cutting-edge, high-end quality. They provide timely, educational updates on hot topics within the law."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Interviewees confirm the "outstanding talents" of first-rate commercial litigation partner Michael Griffinger, who is well versed in helping companies from myriad sectors in seeing off litigious threats. "We have nothing to say except only the most glowing of words," sources report. Lawrence Lustberg is deemed a "brilliant strategist" with "yards of ability" in tackling complex white-collar criminal actions. He is also regularly involved in advising on government investigations. Products liability expert Kim Catullo dispenses guidance on preventing and tackling lawsuits raised by a diverse range of products, as evidenced by her recent input into pharmaceutical, utilities and household appliance cases. Michael McDonald is known for his defense of consumer fraud cases, including a recent victory on behalf of L'Oréal and Procter & Gamble Distributing, while Robert MacPherson brings a "diplomatic, commonsense approach to sensitive lawsuits." John Gibbons is credited as a phenomenal appellate attorney on the back of his former incarnation as a court of appeals justice. He remains hugely active and is held in high regard for his impact on the market. He also oversees the work of the firm's pro bono unit.

THE FIRM Researchers are reminded of this practice's deep New Jersey roots and position as counsel of choice for companies of a range of sizes. Although noted for defending all manner of lawsuits, the group's cost-effective approach to midmarket cases sets the firm apart, say sources. Of late, the team has made its presence known in commercial lending and shareholder disputes, including one case involving the representation of an insurance broker. It also has the depth to offer mediation and arbitration services as alternatives to litigation proceedings.

Sources say: "They work hard to understand their clients and ensure that no nasty surprises lie ahead. They are impressively well polished."

KEY INDIVIDUALS John North offers "the ability to decipher complex legal problems," according to grateful clients. The recent focus of his practice has been the defense of banks and other financial institutions against commercial lawsuits. Paul Rowe embodies the approach required to become an excellent litigation attorney. According to sources, he is "tenacious, well respected and successful in taking matters to trial." Rowe is rightly respected as one of the most experienced minds in the market.  

THE FIRM This group is best recognized for its class action defense work on behalf of numerous market-leading companies. Litigation remains a focal point for the team in New Jersey and it has been involved in federal court trials across the country. The team has continued to grow and it prides itself on its in-depth expertise of taking cases to trial. Standout highlights include representing American Express in a consumer protection class action and acting for Delta Dental in a claims handling dispute.

Sources say: "Highly responsive and great at executing the best strategies for clients."

KEY INDIVIDUALS New Jersey managing stockholder Philip Sellinger stands out for his ability to cover several different bases, including insurance, technology and corporate litigation. He injects a "dynamic approach" into proceedings, say sources.

THE FIRM Research underlines that white-collar criminal defense work drives the reputation of this group, with the firm housing expertise in both investigations and enforcement actions. The compact team is able to provide timely assistance in relation to concerns spanning conspiracy, corruption and money laundering.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Gerald Krovatin is cited as a first-class criminal trial lawyer defined by his expertise and ability to attract the highest-profile work. Henry Klingeman is noted for his "smart approach" to a wide assortment of white-collar cases.

THE FIRM Latham & Watkins enjoys an enviable regional presence and a notable track record in litigating securities, mass tort and professional liability disputes. This international firm's fingerprints can be found on cases involving the very largest of clients, such as the group's representation of the Federal National Mortgage Association over actions brought by 25 credit unions. It also acts for major chemical companies such as Dow Chemical and ConocoPhillips in disputing claims brought by regulatory agencies.

Sources say: "An efficient and thorough team that stays on top of all issues."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Experienced litigator Alan Kraus "figures out a suitable end game from the very start," say sources. His "exceptional skill set" means that he is often involved in highly complex cases. David McLean helps to meet the demands of a broad cross-section of industries and is valued for his "strategic, panoramic view of the situation."

THE FIRM Lowenstein Sandler's name is synonymous with the highest standards of quality, and the market acknowledges this disputes team for its cutting-edge approach. Its experience of disputes covers a broad spectrum ranging from stockholder litigation to securities and insurance claims. The team also handles white-collar criminal defense concerning a selection of enforcement actions, including allegations of corruption and fraud. Sources underline the depth of talent on offer within the group, and highlight its recent representation of clients in the pharmaceutical and financial services industries. Members of the team recently defended breach of fiduciary duty claims on behalf of both Merck and Bristol-Myers Squibb. They have also acted for De Beers in antitrust litigation.

Sources say: "This wonderfully talented team exercises brilliant judgment and undertakes the most thorough research to ensure nothing slips through the cracks."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources consider Robert Chesler to be "the go-to man for policyholder coverage disputes." His "realistic approach to the strengths and weakness of a case" allows him to deliver a rounded opinion to clients. He has been involved in recent cases concerning water, asbestos and cyber-related claims. Douglas Eakeley is singled out for his "tremendous advocacy" and "accomplished, creative strategies that put the client first." His trial expertise extends to the appeal courts and he has a heavy focus on antitrust, class and derivatives actions. Michael Himmel blends his civil litigation practice with involvement in white-collar cases, where his clients include companies, executives and government officials. He is widely perceived as a "first-rate practitioner" who "expertly draws together the best team required to deal with a case." Commentators confirm their "utmost confidence" in the abilities of Lawrence Rolnick, especially in dealing with securities and investor litigation. He represents a number of banking and funds clients. David Harris is considered a brilliant trial lawyer in stockholder and breach of fiduciary duty disputes, and can apply his understanding of IP to litigation arising over patent and trademark issues. "Accomplished attorney" Robert Kipnees is a well-established figure at the white-collar Bar who has earned his spurs in defending fraud, RICO and price-fixing allegations. "Smart and sharp" Christopher Porrino represents businesses and individual professionals against a multitude of white-collar claims, including oppression, fraud and corruption. Jeffrey Wild is underlined for his "heavyweight presence" on complex securities and capital markets litigation, a recent example including work on behalf of CIT Group. Lynda Bennett has recently joined the firm from Herold Law, P.A. She advises insurance policyholders on a cross-section of issues, with a good slice of her recent workload comprising title and construction disputes. According to feedback, she is a "seasoned expert that is well known on the seminar circuit."

Since publication, Robert D Chesler has joined Anderson Kill & Olick, P.C.

Since publication, Christopher Porrino has moved in-house.

THE FIRM This regional behemoth enjoys growing recognition for its top-flight clientele, work product and bench strength. Members of this large group are regularly retained for financial services litigation, class actions and weighty insurance coverage disputes, although they can be reliably counted on to assist in the very broadest range of business disputes. McCarter & English also receives much praise for its multidistrict litigation work, especially when defending healthcare pharmaceutical companies. Recent highlights include assisting the Blood and Tissue Center of Central Texas in a national class action products liability lawsuit. The team acted in a case on behalf of Spencer Savings Bank over nominations to its board of directors.

Sources say: "They have a forward-thinking, constructive approach to dealing with opponents. They are a well-respected and experienced bunch with a huge resource base."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Kott earns widespread admiration for his trial skills. He is an established figure within the state Bar association and has many years of expertise as a products liability expert. Gita Rothschild is a sturdy defense counsel for a number of the state's prominent pharmaceutical clients, on behalf of which she acts in products liability and toxic tort cases. "She brings a high-quality level of input to sensitive claims," reveals one client. Her "accomplished and smart" practice spills over into the insurance coverage field, where she has been selected to represent a number of market-leading clients. She is joined in this respect by Ira Gottlieb, who litigates environmental and tort cases on behalf of insurance policyholders. He has a "reputation for problem-solving" and recently prosecuted claims in a case spanning both Oregon and California. White-collar expert Robert Mintz has been assisting in both criminal and civil cases for clients drawn from the healthcare industry. Sources outline him as being altogether "personable, on top of all the details and an excellent manager of complex cases." Sherilyn Pastor is deemed "thoughtful, prompt and practical" for helping clients resolve insurance coverage disputes. Recent highlights include defending Transamerica over billions of dollars of coverage liability in a case against a former subsidiary. William O'Shaughnessy is a "smart advocate" whose broad practice stretches to a huge range of business disputes, antitrust claims and price-fixing allegations. William Wallach has a well-structured track record of appearing before both state and federal agencies over contract disputes, while Steven Beckelman is commended for his "fantastic intellect." He provided valuable input to the Spencer Savings Bank dispute. Brian Osias has been a success among clients for his "tenacious, yet balanced approach." The majority of his time is occupied with handling coverage disputes against insurance carriers. Gregory Horowitz wins applause for his active profile in insurance coverage claims, where, like many of his colleagues, he guides large corporate policyholders. "He has an outstanding future ahead of him," one source claims. "Original thinker" William Greenberg is "quick on his feet" and "hugely respected by both the bench and the Bar" for all manner of corporate litigation proceedings.

Since publication, William S Greenberg has moved in-house.

THE FIRM This firm's team of New Jersey litigators is enjoying an increasingly visible profile in the market. It has experience in resolving a variety of commercial disputes, and is particularly strongly commended by sources for being able to tackle the largest and most complex of cases. Although it prides itself on its full-service product, the group's most prominent strengths include contractual and professional liability disputes, and general employment litigation. Its weighty footprint in defending insurance companies is reflected in a client lineup that includes Allstate, Liberty Mutual and Swiss Re America.

Sources say: "They provide invaluably useful guidance matched with reasonable, transparent billing. Their commitment to client service is superb; they are accessible and responsive at all times we need them."

KEY INDIVIDUALS When it comes to federal investigations and white-collar criminal defense work, Walter Timpone is a "serious heavyweight," particularly in the healthcare market. Peers have "great faith in his ability to deal with large and potentially fraught cases." Joseph LaSala is a leading figure in the business litigation department, a reputation he has built through his superb work on complex disputes, contractual fallouts and malpractice claims. His "poise and communicative skills before the bench" make him the ideal choice for high-stakes matters. Michael Marone is felt to be a "gifted negotiator" in overcoming insurance coverage disputes, where the breadth of this practice ranges from construction to environmental and employment coverage disputes. James Mulvaney offers "true expertise and the utmost professionalism" when dealing with surety and fidelity claims.

THE FIRM This national and international firm boasts a formidable regional footprint and has been making the effort to bolster its litigation capacity in New Jersey. Eleven partners within the group have the requisite qualifications to handle work in the state and represent a broad spectrum of industries, including food flavoring and perfume manufacturers, pharmaceutical and financial services. The team has won an enviable list of clients and continues to grow its experience of taking cases to trial in the state. Highlights include representing polymer manufacturer Ascend/Solutia over a supply contract dispute.

Sources say: "They have a reputation for success and are able to draw on a wide range of expertise."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chris Loeber recently arrived from the firm's New York office and is the main point of contact.

THE FIRM Products liability is the watchword here, with the team able to call on decades of experience in litigating on behalf of major corporations. Members of the team have successfully defended multiparty and class action claims before a host of different courtroom settings. It has the resources to take on claims with a multijurisdictional element, as it continues to do in acting for Wyeth and Pfizer in polio vaccine claims emanating from Texas and California. Corporations with heavy industry facilities, manufacturers and construction companies are all well represented among the group's client base.

Sources say: "They command an impressive share of the market and their depth is indisputable."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Lauren Handler adds clear-cut guidance to pharmaceutical and manufacturing claims. This "simply outstanding" lawyer has immense trial expertise that has led to recent involvement in hormone replacement therapy disputes.

Since publication, Lauren Handler has moved in-house.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources are quick to commend this high-flying practice group for housing experienced ranks of litigation professionals. On the business litigation side, Riker Danzig has been racking up numerous successes in relation to contract, securities and healthcare disputes. The team has been involved in various arbitration proceedings and has a good reputation for acting on behalf of both insurance and reinsurance carriers. It has the specialist expertise to act in white-collar criminal investigations, as well as niche areas such as defending legal malpractice claims.

Sources say: "The team is responsive, efficient and large enough to handle research-intensive cases, as well as offer a carefully tailored approach."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Shawn Kelly excels in "understanding the unique challenges faced by insurance carriers" and brings "an innate big-picture view to everything he does." He recently acted as co-counsel to the corporate owners of two insurance carriers in a claims-servicing dispute. "Tenacious litigator" Glenn Clark has gained considerable exposure in successfully defending insurance, healthcare and pharmaceutical-related disputes. "Smart, practical" Gerald Liloia is a sure-fire winner for clients thanks to his "unfailing accessibility." He has much involvement in financial services cases, as evidenced by his support of the New Jersey Investment Division over third-party mismanagement claims. Samuel Moulthrop earns applause for his assistance in white-collar criminal cases, with a significant proportion of his recent workload involving tax, corruption and financial crime allegations. As a former assistant US attorney he brings unique insight into how cases should be managed. Brian O'Donnell jointly oversees the work of the firm's insurance practice. Sources comment on his "fantastic negotiation skills" and "ability to build a close rapport with all his clients." "Hugely respected" Anne Patterson is one of the state's most prominent attorneys, with a strong background in products liability and business disputes. Kenneth Van Deventer"thrives on finding a way out of complex problems," claim sources. His practice covers areas such as securities, financial services and insurance disputes.

THE FIRM Saiber is increasingly recognized for its compact yet demonstrable impact on the market, with members of the team involved in a variety of state and federal litigation. Members of the group are skilled in handling disputes ranging from antitrust to professional liability and securities concerns. They are also on hand to guide clients through arbitrations and other forms of alternative dispute resolution where suitable.

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Maderer stands out for his handling of complex business disputes for clients from the education sector. According to sources, he "consistently produces high-quality work." His colleague Arnold Calmann stands out from the crowd as a "font of knowledge," interviewees claim.

THE FIRM Market feedback points to a team with its finger on the pulse in regards to strategic thinking and client service. The group boasts a strong client base comprising both privately held and large national corporations, and has been particularly active in the financial services sector. Sills Cummis & Gross is known for its significant footprint in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, as well as its sterling appellate practice. Members of the litigation group are also closely involved in defending state court products liability claims. Its well-rounded offering is complemented by a steady stream of white-collar defense work, where attorneys deal with government investigations, tax fraud and corruption allegations.

Sources say: "Sympathetic to managing costs in protracted litigation hearings, brilliantly responsive and able to dedicate a huge volume of talent to our case."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources are vocal in offering praise of products liability chair Beth Rose, whom they consider to be "hugely articulate, and diplomatic yet forceful." Her "well-honed strategic view of the situation" has been of great assistance in defending market-leading pharmaceutical clients. Lawrence Horn devotes much of his time to criminal tax cases, a subject over which he is felt to have an "exemplary command" by sources. His input into tax investigations is widely deemed to be first rate. Jeffrey Greenbaum is singled out for his "sheer depth of experience" in managing class action defense, with sources identifying him as among the best talents in the group for this work. "Incredibly bright" Mark Olinsky splits his time between civil and criminal work, and often plays a key role in handling the team's work in government investigations.

THE FIRM Although this firm counsels on a diverse range of litigious cases, sources reserve particularly strong praise for its white-collar defense practice. Members of the team are held in high regard for their handling of both state and federal investigations, and can be called on to deal with an array of allegations. Commentators applaud their timely representation of individuals involved in bribery, fraud and RICO proceedings.

KEY INDIVIDUALS The names of Joseph Hayden and Justin Walder are among the top white-collar defense attorneys in New Jersey. They "lead the charge," according to sources, as a result of their "unrivaled reputations, outstanding grasp of the material and ability to draw up a winning strategy."

THE FIRM Interviewees highlight this firm's longstanding history in New Jersey and growing status in the commercial litigation field. Practitioners have been recording a series of successes for clients in areas ranging from antitrust to securities disputes to allegations of legal malpractice. The team can be entrusted with complex alternative dispute resolution cases where required.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Research singles out shareholder Brian Molloy as the most prominent member of the practice. In addition to his grasp of niche areas such as casinos and unfair competition disputes, he acts as cochair of the team's appellate practice.

THE FIRM Wolff & Samson houses a large litigation team with a longstanding familiarity with the court system of New Jersey, and experience in alternative dispute resolution proceedings. A significant proportion of the team's efforts is devoted to regulatory litigation, and of late it has handled a steady volume of construction and sureties disputes. This year, for example, the group defended International Fidelity Insurance Group against an international trade class action.

KEY INDIVIDUALS "This team has a thorough work ethic and impressive breadth. The lawyers are comfortable and confident in dealing with even the most complex of situations."

KEY INDIVIDUALS If clients are looking for a "ferocious litigator that will fight to the end," they need look no further than Arthur Goldstein, comments a source. He is chair of the firm's litigation department and has a good track record in handling complex business disputes, including cases on behalf of Bank of America. Gage Andretta"immerses himself in the detail to an extent I have not seen elsewhere," according to one client. He divides his time between commercial and real estate disputes, and earns praise for his "exceptional presentation skills" and "infallible understanding of his clients' businesses."