Tax: New York

THE FIRM This excellent group has an established reputation for financial products work, and also offers superior counsel on M&A, corporate restructuring, capital markets, regulatory matters and tax controversies. Clients are quick to praise its strong ties with government decision-makers, and its subsequent strength in legislative matters. The group continues to represent Nortel Networks and related subsidiaries in asset sales and restructurings related to its bankruptcy. It also recently counseled SABMiller on the tax aspects of its proposed $10 billion acquisition of Foster’s Group.

Sources say: "It continues to be a very strong, diversified and well-rounded team."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Erika Nijenhuis is a popular choice with clients seeking superior counsel on financial products matters. She recently advised the underwriters on the tax aspects of Sanofi's first-ever SEC-registered bond offering, valued at approximately $7 billion. Clients describe her as a "well-regarded and prolific partner" who is "smart and thorough, and has a very good grasp of the marketplace and industry."

James Peaslee offers top-drawer counsel in relation to domestic and international transactions. He has recently acted for a number of major financial institutions on audit controversies with the IRS, relating to cross-border transactions and financial products. "He is creative, detail-oriented, knowledgeable and very responsive," enthuse clients.

James Duncan is "a great technician – very thorough and extremely knowledgeable about international taxation issues," say sources. He focuses on restructurings, joint ventures, M&A and tax planning for financial services companies, and recently represented Crucell NV in its $2.4 billion acquisition by Johnson & Johnson.

Leslie Samuels is praised as a "straight-shooter" whose extensive experience and brilliant judgment make him a valuable resource to clients: "If I need to make a tough call I go to him," reported one. Samuels's strengths lie in M&A, international taxation and financial products, and he has recently advised Alkermes on its merger with Elan Drug Technologies. 

Yaron Reich's impressive and broad-based practice covers joint ventures and partnerships, real estate transactions, international transactions and foreign investments into the USA. Expertise in tax litigation and transfer pricing further rounds out his workload.

Peers agree that Jason Factor is a "wonderful and knowledgeable younger partner," and impressive in deal work. He is particularly well versed in hedge fund and private equity matters. He recently provided tax counsel to EDF on the restructuring of its joint venture with Constellation Energy Group.

William McRae "is an excellent tax practitioner who is able to brainstorm, analyze and solve complex international tax problems," say sources. He is well placed to handle domestic corporate transactions and the taxation of financial products. He recently advised Truvo Group on its reorganization under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code, and its ultimate exit out of the USA.  

THE FIRM This preeminent tax team is sought out for its sophisticated work on corporate transactions. Complex private equity acquisitions and financings, M&A, joint ventures, spin-offs and securities offerings are all skillfully handled by the group, and a substantial amount of its work is international in scope. The team recently represented the underwriters in connection with the $2.5 billion registered debt offering of JPMorgan Chase. Other major clients include Shell Oil and IBM.  

Sources say: "Very smart people who work extraordinarily well as a team. As a client I am always reassured."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Stephen Gordon's exceptional practice covers transactional work, including corporate joint ventures, international restructurings and spin-offs. His recent highlights include representing Kraft in the separation of its grocery and snack businesses. One impressed client reports: "He is the best tax lawyer I know; he communicates well, is an excellent writer, sticks his neck out and has courage – just outstanding!" 

Peers agree that Michael Schler "really is one of the intellectuals in the tax field." His first-class practice covers M&A, corporate finance, corporate tax and international transactions. Of note is his recent representation of Arch Chemicals in its acquisition by Lonza Group. "Mike is a brilliant US tax lawyer. His style is very detailed, comprehensive and highly tax technical, as well as sensitive to tax planning impacts on business operations," said one impressed client.

Andrew Needham "is a legend and has star quality in tax circles," say clients. His forte lies in the private equity and hedge fund arenas, and he recently represented Johnson & Johnson in its $21.3 billion acquisition of Synthes. Peers note: "He is quite extraordinary because he is not only deeply knowledgeable and thoughtful, but also has judgment of a kind that is rare to see."

Lauren Angelilli handles domestic and cross-border spin-offs, restructuring, M&A, corporate joint ventures and fund formation matters. Peers applaud her as being "very personable and easy to work with," while clients report that "she is a very good business lawyer and understands the practical realities of what it's like to be in business."

"Solid associate" Leonard Teti focuses on M&A and was recently involved in the Johnson & Johnson acquisition with Needham. Peers report: "He is very impressive and will be a great partner when he becomes one."

THE FIRM This talented group combines expertise in investment funds, tax controversy, restructuring and bankruptcy matters, but is perhaps best known for its cutting-edge work involving financial products and M&A issues. The team's recent highlights include representing Comcast in connection with its $37 billion NBC Universal joint venture with GE, and representing a major client in tax controversies before the US tax court. Its impressive roster of clients includes RBS, ExxonMobil and Quicksilver Resources.  

Sources say: "They are extremely intelligent and quick to understand complicated and novel structures. They also have an excellent measure of risk of what one should and shouldn't do."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Avishai Shachar heads the department and is held in the highest regard by market sources. His expertise covers domestic and cross-border M&A, spin-offs, leveraged buyouts and financial products. His highlights include representing PepsiCo in its $3.8 billion acquisition of a 66% stake in Wimm-Bill-Dann Foods. Clients say: "He is extremely knowledgeable and provides a second opinion on extremely difficult and sensitive matters."

Po Sit rises in the rankings having earned praise for his excellent attention to detail and impressive intellect. "He is a genius – a super tax guy," say peers, while clients remark that "his advice is highly regarded and we view him as more than just a tax adviser." He focuses on M&A, derivative products and partnerships, and recently advised the underwriters on GM's $23.1 billion IPO, the largest in history.

Preeminent practitioner Samuel Dimon's broad-based tax practice covers a wide range of matters, including bankruptcy and reorganizations, M&A, merchant banking and hedge fund organization and investments, joint ventures and tax planning for financial institutions. He recently advised San Antonio Internacional on the collective restructuring of $622 million of existing debt. 

Michael Farber is "an incredibly quick thinker, very creative and client-focused, and really wants to get us where we need to be – he is the best," say clients. He has particular strength in financial products, and recently acted as underwriters counsel in relation to an aggregate of approximately $9 billion of SEC-registered debt offerings by GE Capital.

Peers agree that Kathleen Ferrell is "a terrific and very user-friendly lawyer." She counsels corporate and private equity fund clients on a range of complex transactions, including joint ventures and reorganizations. "She has a wonderful way of explaining things," say sources, and "commands amazing respect from the IRS, and is very pleasant and fun to deal with."

Lucy Farr is praised by clients as an "incredibly personable tax lawyer who gets things right the first time; she is a good adviser and has a great way of handling tense situations and diffusing tension." The taxation of corporate finance, derivative and structured finance issues forms the core of her practice. She recently advised Marsh & McLennan Companies on its cash tender offers.  

Michael Mollerus stands out for his exceptional strength in complex M&A and reorganization issues, and has additional strength in spin-offs and structured financings. He continues to represent pharmaceutical company Warner Chilcott in a range of complex matters. 

Harry Ballan is highly recommended for his private fund work on behalf of financial institutions and private fund boutiques. He also handles spin-offs, M&A and cross-border tax planning matters for an impressive list of clients. Expertise in complex tax controversy issues further rounds out his practice. Recent highlights include representing Aetna in its $202 million acquisition of PayFlex Holdings.

Neil Barr is admired for his superb transactional expertise and impressive list of clients. He specializes in private equity and hedge fund structuring and compensation-related matters, as well as M&A, dispositions and tax controversy issues. He recently advised JPMorgan, Merrill Lynch, and Goldman Sachs as arrangers of a $1.5 billion unsecured bridge loan facility for Joy Global, one of the world's leading mining equipment manufacturers. 

THE FIRM This 13-partner team is lauded as a leading one-stop shop for clients seeking counsel on a broad range of tax issues. It offers expertise on every kind of transaction, domestic as well as cross-border, and also houses attorneys skilled in tax litigation, state and local taxes and executive compensation. Clients commend the impressive bench strength and continuity of lawyers it provides. Recent highlights include advising Liberty Media on its split-off of the businesses, assets and liabilities currently attributed to its Liberty Capital and Liberty Starz interactive and tracking stock groups.  

Sources say: "I have never met a Skadden lawyer who was subpar – they are all great! Top-flight and highly respected."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice co-head Matthew Rosen offers superior expertise on a broad range of tax issues, but is particularly skilled in cross-border and domestic restructurings, acquisitions and divestitures. His notable highlights include representing Sara Lee in the proposed tax-free spin-off of its international coffee and tea businesses. He is praised as "one of the very top tax lawyers practicing in the US – very smart, articulate, hard-working and devoted to advancing his client's interests." 

Edward Gonzalez is admired by peers for his "terrific and strong" tax practice, which focuses on cross-border financial transactions, private equity investments, M&A and tax controversy work. He also advises foreign corporations on structuring their investments in the USA, recently advising Colombian Cementos Argos and its subsidiary Argos USA on its $760 million acquisition of Lafarge's southeastern US cement and ready-mix businesses. 

Stuart Finkelstein handles corporate finance transactions, M&A, spin-offs, joint ventures and restructurings. He recently represented BankUnited in its $71 million proposed acquisition of Herald National Bank. "He is an unbelievably unique guy who has the expertise and all the technical skills, but also has a heart of gold and is so nice to deal with; you can't find anyone that you would enjoy working with more," praised one happy client.

Diana Lopo "is able to spot issues across not just tax but also different practice areas," say sources. Joint venture formations, tax-free reorganizations, LBOs and spin-offs form the core of her practice. She recently represented New Cotai Holdings in connection with the acquisition by Melco Crown Entertainment of a 60% stake in Macau Studio City. 

Dean Shulman has a fantastic reputation for tax work relating to tax-free spin-offs, LBOs, IPOs, real estate transactions and fund formation. Major highlights from the last year include his representation of BlackRock in its $1.5 billion offering of notes. 

Kirk Wallace is applauded by clients for his ability to combine a pragmatic approach with solid business understanding and high technical competency. "Kirk is the best tax lawyer I have ever talked to; he is smart, quick and proactive," said one impressed interviewee. Wallace has a broad tax practice but is particularly adept at handling financial product development and structured finance transactions. He recently represented Hubbard Broadcasting in its acquisition of 17 radio stations from Bonneville International, a transaction valued at approximately $505 million. 

Victor Hollender earns accolades for his fantastic work on behalf of both domestic and international corporations. He is particularly skilled at advising on and structuring a wide range of financial products, hybrid capital and derivative transactions. his notable recent highlights include advising Venezuelan company Empresas Polar on its joint venture with PepsiCo and Grupo Embotelladoras Unidas to create a nationwide beverage company in Mexico. 

Sally Thurston focuses on advising multinational clients on cross-border transactions and investment structures, including M&A, spin-offs, joint ventures and restructurings. Peers note: "She is fantastic and clients really like her; her command of the law is excellent and she is also quite pragmatic." She recently represented Norwegian oilfield service company Seawell in its $25.5 million acquisition of Universal Wireline from Patterson-UTI Energy.

David Rievman is highly recommended for his expertise in cross-border transactions, including M&A, joint ventures, financial restructurings and recapitalizations, financings and divestitures. His recent highlights include representing American Express in its $150 million acquisition of software provider Accertify. 

Steven Matays handles complex domestic and international business transactions, including joint ventures, M&A, spin-offs and debt and equity offerings. "He is technically very strong and also has great business judgment," said one client, adding: "He knows a lot of areas really well and I always get an answer from him." Matays's recent work highlights include representing DISH Network in its $1.4 billion acquisition of 100% of the equity of DBSD North America.

THE FIRM Clients are quick to commend the consistency of talent offered by this top-tier tax group, which includes attorneys skilled in bankruptcy, M&A, financial products, capital markets transactions and private equity. It continues to expand its tax controversy practice and has in the last year represented both domestic and international clients in IRS examinations. On the transactional side, the team recently advised Wells Fargo on its SEC-registered secondary sale of $2.5 billion senior holding notes. Other major clients include UBS, Rhône Group and York Capital Management.   

Sources say: "This is an amazing team. The caliber of the lawyers is one of the highest I have ever come across, and their service is unmatched."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Leading practitioner David Hariton "sees the whole picture and has a very coherent and philosophical approach to taxes," say sources. Cross-border investments, transactions and financial products form the basis of his practice, and he recently advised Wells Fargo on its aforementioned SEC-registered secondary sale. Clients report: "He is approachable, creative, proactive and just great; he is user-friendly and an excellent writer – absolutely first rate."

Andrew Mason is applauded for his exceptional strength in transactional matters, including joint ventures, M&A and real estate transactions. "He is unbelievable," remarked one source; "he seems to know everything about everything when it comes to tax." Mason recently advised AT&T on its pending $39 billion acquisition of T-Mobile USA from Deutsche Telekom.

Andrew Solomon "is an absolute pleasure to work with; he does an amazing job, provides unbelievable value and is very technically strong in many tax areas," say clients. He is recognized for his strength in financial services-related work, where he regularly advises on complex cross-border transactions. Of particular note was his recent involvement in advising the Bank of Montreal on its $4.1 billion acquisition of Marshall & Ilsley. 

Diana Wollman is a "very knowledgeable and reliable person who is thoughtful and reasoned whenever she speaks." Her broad-based practice covers transactions and tax controversy issues, as well as state and local taxes. She has recently advised a number of domestic and international financial institutions and associations of financial institutions on FATCA compliance matters.  

Ronald Creamer "is a very level-headed guy with an encyclopedic knowledge of the tax code," say sources. His recent highlights include advising BHP Billiton on its pending $15.1 billion acquisition of Petrohawk Energy. One impressed client reports: "He is one of the most practical tax counsel I've ever worked with."

THE FIRM This compact but highly effective four-partner group is praised for its exceptional talent in handling sophisticated M&A deals. It works closely with colleagues in the firm's corporate department, enabling it to provide a seamless service to a large number of impressive multinational clients. The team has been particularly active in spin-off transactions of late.  

Sources say: "Outstanding for M&A work."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jodi Schwartz is a prominent member of the New York Tax Bar, admired for her impressive strength in joint ventures, financial instruments, spin-offs and M&A. Deborah Paul handles similar matters, and recently advised Motorola on tax issues relating to its $12.5 billion acquisition by Google. Schwartz and Paul "are both super smart and extremely creative, and thoughtful, high-quality tax lawyers," say peers.

Joshua Holmes "is always a pleasure to have as a counterparty," enthuse peers. He handles large and complex transactions, including joint ventures, spin-offs, M&A and financial instruments.   

Peers agree that Eiko Stange "is very impressive and will rise quickly" through the ranks. He handles domestic and international transactional tax matters, including M&A, joint ventures and LBOs. 

THE FIRM Fund formation and insurance industry tax issues are two indisputable strong points of this impressive ten-partner group. It is well placed to handle the most complex and high-value transactional matters, attracting an impressive and diverse range of clients, including AIG, American Airlines and International Paper. Clients are particularly quick to commend the team's impressive responsiveness and availability. Major recent highlights for the group include representing Reynolds Group in its $4.5 billion acquisition of Graham Packaging Company.  

Sources say: "We use Debevoise because we value their insight, integrity, and consistency."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department chair Burt Rosen has a solid reputation for M&A and financing transactions, and recently advised on the aforementioned Reynolds Group acquisition. Clients report: "Not only does he have a deep knowledge of federal and international tax laws, but he also knows the industry and current practices and issues." 

David Schnabel is "able to add value to our deals by identifying problems before they arise and providing solutions that do not jeopardize or conflict with the commercial drivers our group is trying to achieve," said one impressed source. Schnabel has particular experience in acquisition financings, private fund formations and M&A transactions. He recently assisted EIG Global Energy Partners with setting up a $4.1 billion fund.  

Market sources applaud Peter Furci's strength in offshore deals and private equity matters. Of particular note was his recent representation of International Paper in its $3.3 billion tender offer for Temple-Inland. One client reports: "His experience and knowledge are not matched by many other individuals; he always seeks to add value and insight to a transaction, and really knows how to drive the process forward." 

Gary Friedman is highly respected for his impressive work on complex domestic and international M&A transactions. His recent major highlights include representing Prudential Financial in its $4.8 billion acquisition of Japan-based AIG Star Life Insurance and AIG Edison Life Insurance Company from AIG.

Andrew Berg "is excellent in partnership tax," and is also recognized for his strength in joint ventures, spin-offs, debt restructurings, private equity and real estate transactions.  

Peers agree that Adele Karig is "a leading light in the firm's investment funds practice." Her expertise covers venture capital, buyouts, international private equity, mezzanine and other private equity-related issues.

Robert Staffaroni is highly recommended for his expertise in international transactions, securities offerings, financing transactions and financial products. He continues to represent American Airlines in a range of transactions.

Peter Schuur's broad-based practice covers a range of international transactions, regularly within the private equity funds field, as well as tax work for clients in the insurance industry. He has continued to represent Hewitt Associates in its $4.9 billion merger with Aon.  

Vadim Mahmoudov "punches well above his weight," earning praise for his impressive business sense and ability to "identify the issues that are meaningful and worth focusing on." He specializes in private equity fund formation, domestic and cross-border M&A matters, and bankruptcies and restructurings.

Seth Rosen is highly regarded in the insurance space, where he counsels insurance companies and their affiliates on a range of transactional tax issues. "Technical excellence aside, Seth's strength is his careful and thorough approach in problem solving," say clients.

THE FIRM This group has substantial strength when it comes to complex and high-value domestic and cross-border transactional work. It skillfully handles bankruptcies, financings and partnership transactions, and has continued to expand into the hedge fund arena. The team recently represented Citi in the sale of its private equity businesses to Lexington Partners and StepStone Group.  

Sources say: "This department houses some terrific tax practitioners."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Sicular draws praise as a "very smart and creative individual" who is an "all-around brilliant tax lawyer." He has particular experience in financings, financial products, public and private M&A matters, bankruptcy and insolvency restructurings, and general tax planning issues. His highlights include advising Universal American on the $1.25 billion sale of its Medicare Part D business to CVS Caremark.

Department co-head Richard Bronstein is highly respected for his broad-based tax practice, which covers a range of domestic and international M&A, partnership and secured financing transactions, as well as tax controversy issues. He recently advised Virtu Financial LLC on its $1.2 billion merger with Madison Tyler Holdings.

Jeffrey Samuels focuses on partnership and joint venture transactions, spin-offs, M&A, investment fund organization and the structuring of complex real estate transactions. "He is simply brilliant," said one client; "he has given us some very wise advice on some very complicated matters." Samuels co-heads the practice together with Bronstein and recently represented The Lightstone Group in the $2.3 billion sale of its Prime Outlets business to Simon Property Group.  

David Mayo is applauded as a "terrific young man who has established himself exceptionally well." He handles M&A, restructuring, corporate and partnership taxation, and cross-border transactions, and is commended by peers for his excellent business sense and judgment in complex tax issues. He recently represented JH Investments in a major acquisition.

THE FIRM Simpson Thacher's tax team maintains a strong reputation for transactional work, financial instruments and investment strategies. It offers expertise in M&A, fund formation, real estate investment and cross-border financings, and is particularly well placed to handle going-public transactions for private equity clients. In the private equity space, it recently represented The Mosaic Company in its split-off from Cargill, and in a $7.5 billion common stock offering. The Carlyle Group and Hellman & Friedman also feature in its impressive list of clients.

Sources say: "A really solid tax group."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Steven Todrys enjoys a first class reputation for his work on restructurings, M&A, joint ventures and real estate matters. He was recently involved in advising The Mosaic Company on the aforementioned split-off transaction. Clients applaud him as terrific, while peers have "a tremendous amount of respect for him." 

John Hart is praised for his great "breadth of knowledge and insight." He has particular strength in real estate transactions, REITs, and the formation of private investment funds. He has recently represented Blackstone in a number of transactions, including its $9.4 billion acquisition of the US shopping mall business of Centro Properties Group and its managed funds.

Nancy Mehlman is highly recommended for her expertise in real estate transactions, M&A, partnerships and joint ventures, and for her regular roles on behalf of clients in the private equity space. "She is very high quality and has a great profile," say sources. Her recent highlights include representing Petrohawk Energy in its announced $15.1 billion sale to BHP Billiton.

John Creed earns praise for his solid counsel in relation to securitizations and financing transactions, hedge funds and private equity funds, M&A, partnerships and joint ventures. He recently represented L-3 Communications Holdings in connection with the announced spin-off of its publicly traded government services company.

Robert Holo's impressive and broad-based practice has seen him represent numerous banks, domestic and foreign corporations, and investors in the most complex and high-value transactional matters. Cross-border taxation, capital markets, M&A and joint ventures all fall within his areas of expertise, and he recently represented Colombian Mercantil Colpatria in connection with its sale of 51% of the shares of Banco Colpatria to Scotiabank.

Gary Mandel advises on spin-offs, joint ventures, restructurings and M&A, and regularly represents private equity fund clients. His recent highlights include advising ITT on a number of complex spin-off transactions.  

Marcy Geller is "smart, sharp, energetic and also very pleasant in contentious situations," say sources. International joint ventures, financial instruments, M&A, and private equity and real estate opportunity funds are at the heart of her practice. She recently represented PPL in concurrent common stock and equity unit offerings of an aggregate of $3.3 billion.  

THE FIRM This 17-partner group brings the firm's preeminent strength in bankruptcy and restructuring issues to bear in its tax-related representations. It also offers counsel on matters relating to private equity and fund formation, complex M&A, capital markets and securitization. In highlights, the team has continued to represent General Growth Properties in its complex $27.3 billion Chapter 11 case. Other notable clients include Kinder Morgan, The DIRECTV Group and Brookfield Asset Management.   

Sources say: "They are responsive, thoughtful, thorough and creative. They also work very seamlessly together as a team."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Leading authority Stuart Goldring handles M&A and restructuring matters, and one peer highlighted him as "the best bankruptcy guy in the country." Goldring continues to garner acclaim for his continued advice to Washington Mutual on its Chapter 11 case. 

Global practice cochair Kenneth Heitner is held in extremely high regard for his tax counsel in relation to private equity and general corporate transactions. Market sources applaud him as a "thoughtful, knowledgeable and terrific tax guy." He continues to represent major clients such as GE and General Growth Properties.

Sources applaud Kimberly Blanchard's solid expertise in international tax matters. Her impressive strength in cross-border tax work has in the last year seen her represent Canada's Public Sector Pension Investment Board in its $6.3 billion take-private of US-based medical device company Kinetic Concepts.

Martin Pollack draws praise for his sophisticated work involving partnerships and joint ventures, M&A, private equity, bankruptcy and fund formation matters. He recently represented Goldman Sachs Private Investment Funds in the $2.7 billion debt restructuring of Marsico Capital Management. Impressed clients report: "Not only is he smart and creative, but he also articulates to his clients what everything means and what our options are."

Scott Sontag counsels private equity and public clients on real estate transactions, and on domestic and cross-border M&A matters. He is also well placed to advise on the tax implications of securities offerings and restructuring transactions. Clients are particularly quick to commend his impressive business sense and pragmatic approach.  

THE FIRM This compact but highly effective group excels in a wide range of transactional tax matters, including M&A, joint ventures and spin-offs. It also offers expertise in fund formation, bankruptcy and restructuring, and capital markets. In recent highlights, the team represented Pfizer in its sale of Capsugel, and advised Credit Suisse on the establishment of the $1 billion Emerging Markets Credit Opportunity fund.   

Sources say: "A great firm in the structured finance and bankruptcy arenas."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Miller is "excellent and very smart when it comes to private equity matters," say sources. His broad-based tax practice also covers international and domestic M&A, bankruptcies and restructurings, cross-border lending transactions, financings, financial instruments and derivatives. He recently advised investment adviser C12 on the restructuring of Protium, a $12.6 billion fund. 

Department head Linda Swartz is particularly strong when it comes to international tax planning and transactional work. One impressed client reports: "She is an excellent adviser – truly exceptional. She has a collaborative style and is more than willing to take time to teach me about the rationale behind her advice."

THE FIRM This talented tax group attracts particular praise for its strength in fund formation and asset management issues. The eight-partner team also offers counsel on the full range of domestic and international transactional tax matters, including real estate transactions, bankruptcy and restructurings. Major recent highlights for the group include representing Goldman Sachs Capital Partners in connection with the recapitalization agreement of MoneyGram International. It also advised Google on the purchase of its New York headquarters. 

Sources say: "I don't know what I would do without them! They are as close to perfect as it gets."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Cassanos chairs the department and handles M&A, fund formation, REITs, joint ventures and various cross-border tax issues. Clients applaud him as being "very well versed in understanding the economics of a transaction," while peers note that "he is always impressive, insightful and helpful." He recently represented Merck in its multibillion-dollar agreement with Johnson & Johnson regarding drug distribution rights.  

Joel Scharfstein offers a "perfect combination of technical expertise and practicality in the context of a transaction." Partnerships, restructurings and complex acquisitions lie at the heart of his practice. He recently advised New Mountain Capital on its acquisition of SymphonyIRI Group.  

David Shapiro is praised for his solid acquisition and disposition work on behalf of private equity and mezzanine funds. He recently advised Goldman Sachs Capital Partners on its acquisition of a controlling interest in Apple American Group from Weston Presidi. Clients report: "He is very client-focused, practical and responsive; a real deal person."

Lisa Levy is highly recommended for her expertise in financial instruments and in international and cross-border transactions. His recent highlights include advising Merck on its $2 billion public offering.  

THE FIRM Kirkland & Ellis's tax team is particularly strong when it comes to large and sophisticated domestic and international transactions, but also offers expertise on tax controversy and executive compensation issues. Clients further highlight its strength in fund formation matters. Clients include ABB, Avista Capital Partners and Constellation Energy Group, the latter of which the team recently represented in its $7.9 billion merger with Exelon.   

Sources say: "The firm maintains a good blend of sound legal advice bound by an appropriate business perspective."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Universally praised by peers as a terrific tax attorney, Patrick Gallagher handles a range of transactional tax work, including restructurings, acquisitions and divestitures, and fund formation issues. He continues to provide counsel to longstanding client Apax Partners, recently advising on its simultaneous acquisitions of publicly held Epicor Software and privately held Activant Solutions.

Steven Clemens is "extremely smart and creative," as well as "a good business person with strong financial skills." Complex domestic and cross-border M&A matters form a predominant part of his practice, and he is also well placed to handle tax matters in connection with investment fund issues. His recent highlights include advising Teva Pharmaceutical Industries on its agreement to acquire Cephalon.  

Like Clemens, Greer Phillips has a particularly strong reputation for transactional work, especially cross-border transactions. He regularly handles matters involving joint ventures, spin-offs and acquisitions. He recently represented 3G Capital in its going-private acquisition of Burger King, a transaction worth approximately $4 billion. 

THE FIRM Commentators recognize this 14-strong team for its exceptional strength in state and local tax matters. It regularly handles complex tax controversy and litigation work throughout the USA, and also offers expertise in federal tax matters, including tax planning, transactional and controversy issues. It recently advised a trustee on tax matters related to the $24 billion split-off of Cargill shares in Mosaic. Other clients include Pfizer, MasterCard and Moody's.

Sources say: "A very good team with a deep set of resources and excellent technical skills."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peter Faber is applauded by peers as "the statesman of the state and local Tax Bar." He handles tax controversy and business planning matters, and has recently advised Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs on a range of state and local tax matters. Clients report: "He is extremely easy to work with and just a brilliant lawyer; his federal background is very helpful to us as well." 

Arthur Rosen is "an outstanding advocate and extremely talented provider," say sources. Like Faber, he is an expert in state and local tax matters, and regularly counsels corporations, partnerships and individuals. He recently represented a number of high-profile clients in complex multistate tax controversies.

Practice head Thomas Giegerich spearheads the group's transactional and federal tax planning work, regularly handling complex cross-border transactions. He is also well placed to handle federal tax controversy and transfer pricing issues. Clients applaud his dedicated, comprehensive and business-savvy approach, as well as his "willingness to get his hands dirty."

THE FIRM This team excels in financial products, bankruptcy and restructurings, and has in the last year also expanded its work in the tax controversy arena. It continues to handle numerous matters for renewable energy industry clients, and recently represented Japan's biggest manufacturer of solar panels, Sharp Corporation, in a multimillion-dollar agreement to buy San Francisco-based Recurrent Energy.  

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department chair Bruce Kayle is a fine choice for complex transactional matters and tax controversies, particularly those involving financial products. He also handles domestic and foreign securities offerings and private equity investments. He recently represented Mexican financial services company Grupo Financiero Banorte, and its selling shareholder Gruma, in an international secondary offering – the largest equity offering in Mexico in 2011.

Andrew Walker's forte lies in international federal income tax matters. He counsels clients on matters ranging from investment funds and US and foreign securities offerings to complex financing and securitization transactions. "He is very smart, seasoned and thoughtful," say clients. Walker recently advised the underwriters in a $479 million public offering of limited partnership units by Brookfield Infrastructure Partners.

Dale Ponikvar is admired by peers for his strong performance in a number of high-profile cases. Corporate restructurings, M&A, cross-border and outsourcing transactions are at the heart of his practice, and he continues to represent the creditors' committee in the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy.

THE FIRM This group is a heavy hitter when it comes to advising multinational clients on cross-border and international transactions. It has been particularly active in handling domestic and international spin-offs, but also undertakes work in M&A, partnerships and joint ventures, REITs and bankruptcy workouts. Highlight matters include representing SunGard Data Systems in the $1.775 billion bifurcated sale of its Higher Education businesses.  

Sources say: "The firm has always provided outstanding services and advice to me. The individuals have a strong sense of the value they need to bring to each engagement."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas McFadyen "is a tireless worker who understands the big picture and has amazing attention to detail." He focuses on cross-border tax planning and recently represented Synthes in its $21.3 billion definitive agreement to be acquired by Johnson & Johnson.

THE FIRM This six-partner tax team offers expertise on a broad range of tax matters, including transactional, international, partnership, financing and corporate issues. Clients are particularly quick to commend its funds-related expertise. It recently advised longstanding client Morgan Stanley on its multimillion-dollar sale of Saxon Mortgage Services.

Sources say: "We use them for complicated tax projects and deals."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Reinhold chairs the department and is hailed as a fantastic tax partner. He is a strong choice for domestic and international corporate restructurings, M&A, joint ventures and financing transactions. He recently advised Farmers Group on its $1.9 billion acquisition of AIG’s Personal Auto Group.

Christopher Peters is highly respected for his expertise in capital markets and private equity funds. His practice also covers LBOs, spin-offs, M&A and joint ventures, and he recently represented Level 3 Communications in a number of billion-dollar transactions.

THE FIRM This dynamic team is a strong choice for domestic and international transactions, tax controversies and financings. It has been particularly busy with cross-border spin-offs of late. Its impressive client roster includes Citi, Purdue Pharma and Terra Gen. In recent highlights, the team represented Access Industries in its acquisitions of Warner Music and Lyondell Chemical.

Sources say: "A first-rate place that helps me in so many ways and areas."

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Cavanagh enters the rankings having earned praise for his expertise in international, corporate and partnership tax matters. Clients say: "He has the technical expertise that rivals the top of the Tax Bar, and also has a business-savvy edge and a practical view of business life." His recent highlights include representing GLG Partners in its acquisition by UK-based Man Group.

THE FIRM In addition to its widely recognized strength in REITs issues, this tax team also handles work relating to investment funds, securities offerings and corporate tax. Clients applaud its close links with colleagues in the firm's foreign offices, providing for a seamless service in cross-border matters. The team recently advised Hearst Corporation on its $900 million acquisition of the international magazine business of French media company Lagardère.  

Sources say: "All lawyers we have worked with there have been extremely helpful. They have done an excellent job."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice group leader Richard Catalano centers his practice on REITs, and on corporate and partnership tax planning. Impressed clients report: "He is one of the brightest tax people we have met; he is creative and a business person's attorney who is very good at framing issues the way business people see them." Catalano recently advised affiliates of Madison International Realty on its acquisition of a 49% interest in existing partnerships of Forest City Enterprises.

Clients note that Donald Carden is "an expert on complex transactions; he is a very good and responsive guy." He has solid expertise in private equity funds, asset-backed and mortgage securitization, leveraged leasing and real estate capital markets transactions.

Philip Wagman is a "really bright young partner" who is "thoughtful and combines deep intellectual knowledge with a practical approach." He counsels clients on a range of transactional matters, including spin-offs, M&A and joint ventures, and is particularly noted for his work on transportation leasing transactions.  

THE FIRM This firm houses attorneys skilled in the full range of tax services, including tax controversy, state and local, capital markets, employee benefits and general transactional matters. It is a popular choice with entertainment industry clients, and also regularly represents hedge funds, banks and high net worth individuals. Highlights include advising a large international company on the potential acquisition of a solar energy company. 

Sources say: "We have been extremely happy with the service they have provided."

KEY INDIVIDUALS State and local tax expert Maria Jones is held in very high regard by market sources. She counsels clients ranging from individuals to large domestic and foreign corporate clients on state tax planning and tax controversy matters, and recently advised several high net worth individuals on issues of residency and allocation of income.  

Barry Herzog earns accolades for his work on a wide range of transactional tax matters, including joint ventures and debt and equity offerings. Peers praise him as a "talented, smart and thorough" attorney who is a "terrific advocate for his clients." He has been particularly active in handling complex restructurings of late.

THE FIRM Capital markets, financings and complex domestic and cross-border M&A work are core strengths of this impressive team. It also undertakes a substantial amount of work involving REITs. Despite its relatively compact size, the group attracts an impressive client roster consisting of large corporations, investment banks, tax-exempt organizations and venture capital firms. It recently advised Global Crossing on its $3 billion acquisition by Level 3 Communications.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Global tax chair David Raab focuses on international tax, providing counsel on matters ranging from public financings and M&A to recapitalizations and tax controversy issues. He recently advised HCR ManorCare, a portfolio company of The Carlyle Group, on an acquisition involving its $6.1 billion real estate portfolio.  

Jiyeon Lee-Lim has a strong reputation for financing work, handling inbound and outbound capital markets transactions, as well as debt and equity offerings. She recently handled a $1.8 billion debt refinancing, representing Wells Fargo Capital Finance and Deutsche Bank Securities as arrangers in the senior ABL facility for Hertz.

THE FIRM This widely respected tax boutique provides strong counsel on the full range of tax matters, including state and local, estate planning, tax controversy, litigation, and corporate tax planning issues. It is also active in international tax matters, and regularly advises foreign and domestic businesses on complex inbound and outbound transactions.

Sources say: "They are superb tax lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peers agree that Lary Wolf is "one of the eminent guys in the New York Tax Bar." He is particularly skilled in real estate and partnership taxation, and regularly advises on REITs and real estate transactions. He is also skilled in tax controversy work.  

International taxation specialist Michael Miller focuses on advising foreign clients on inbound US investments. Peers regard him as "very smart and deserving of recognition."

THE FIRM Clients praise the diversity of the tax services on offer at this firm. It provides counsel on state, federal and international taxation, and also undertakes tax controversy and transactional issues. In addition, the team handles work involving hedge funds, insurance, capital markets, real estate and structured finance. Recent work highlights include representing KPMG in a number of transactions and acquisitions; other clients include Wells Fargo, PepsiCo and the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund.  

Sources say: "I think the firm is solid and gives very good advice. It is on top of developments and is very business-conscious."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients applaud Robert Kreitman's expertise in credit markets and securitizations, describing him as "very proactive, analytical, approachable and client-friendly." He recently handled a $685 million securities offering for Deutsche Bank Securities.

Richard Leavy enters the rankings having earned widespread praise for his state and local tax expertise. "I wouldn't know where else to go for state and local tax matters; I have always come back to him as there is no one else who has the level of understanding that he has," said one happy client.

THE FIRM This group is dedicated to providing solid tax counsel to clients in the banking and finance community. It handles structured finance, restructurings and bankruptcies, financial products, investment funds, and M&A, regularly undertaking work that is multijurisdictional in scope. Recent highlights include representing GMR Group, one of India’s fastest growing infrastructure providers, in the $1.232 billion sale of its 50% stake in InterGen; this is the largest cross-border M&A transaction between India and China to date.    

Sources say: "It's a top-notch firm which is great for international work."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Global tax head William Dantzler specializes in international and domestic M&A and tax controversy matters, and is particularly highly regarded for his work on transfer pricing. His recent highlights include representing Dynegy in a crucial $4.4 billion debt refinancing transaction. He has also handled a number of spin-off transactions of late.