THE FIRM This team excels in a broad range of work, from international crisis management to representing individuals and corporations in investigations and white-collar criminal proceedings. Clients highlight the practice's global reach and multi-talented nature. The group is particularly recommended for its excellent FCPA and DOJ investigations capabilities. In this vein, the team has taken on some high-profile monitorship and compliance roles, such as its assignment as monitor for Siemens in a matter spanning the USA, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Despite the retirement of the renowned Thomas Holliday, the firm maintains top-notch practitioners in this area.

Sources Say: "A superb team, capable of succeeding in any sphere."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Debra Wong Yang co-chairs the firm's white-collar defense and investigations practice and its crisis management team. She brings her extensive experience as a former US Attorney and state judge to bear on a broad array of cases. She has particular expertise in healthcare matters. The "quite outstanding" Nicola Hanna enters the tables this year. Operating out of the firm's Los Angeles and Orange County offices, he is developing an excellent reputation as a highly effective trial lawyer.

THE FIRM Keker & Van Nest is a preeminent litigation boutique based in San Francisco and renowned for its stellar trial and defense capabilities. The group has a fantastic track record representing high-profile individuals in white-collar criminal cases. Recent highlights include defending General Van Pao, the leader of more than 145,000 Hmong-Americans, against charges of conspiring to overthrow the Laos government. The firm also has a strong caseload acting for prominent corporations and represented the Major League Baseball Players Association in a five-year case against the government. The lawyers also acted for Broadcom in connection with the criminal trials of its former CEO and CFO.

Sources Say: "One of the best litigation groups in California."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The near-legendary John Keker is one of the country's premier white-collar and civil trial lawyers. With a reputation for "being involved in almost every big case around," he leads the firm's most significant work, including matters that are national and international in scope. Jan Nielsen Little is "an exceptionally good" civil and white-collar criminal defense lawyer. She is often seen acting alongside Keker in the group's standout cases and wins substantial acclaim for her experience handling unique and complex stock options backdating trials. Another of the firm's highly regarded trial attorneys is Elliot Peters. He represented Nick Perata, the son of a former California State Senator, in a five-year long federal criminal investigation.

THE FIRM Latham & Watkins' white-collar group handles stock options backdating matters and has expertise in securities fraud cases. It has also been active in FCPA work.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice group co-chair David Schindler has trial experience and background at the Los Angeles US Attorney's Office and on the Attorney General's Advisory Committee Working Group on Computer Crime. San Francisco-based Steven Bauer is noted for his litigation expertise. Los Angeles-based Manuel Abascal's practice encompasses subprime-related issues. He also has expertise in FCPA and securities matters.

THE FIRM With offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco, this is a leading firm in the white-collar criminal defense and investigations arena. The team comprises deeply experienced lawyers, 13 of which are former Justice Department attorneys. Sources are particularly impressed by the group's capacity for defending high-level individuals against criminal charges.

Sources Say: "An intelligent team that excels across the board."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Brad Brian is "one of the deans of the legal community." A prominent national trial lawyer, his client roster includes heavyweight names such as GE, Boeing, AXA Financial and Warner Bros. John Spiegel"is among the best litigators in California," according to market sources. His practice spans business disputes, white-collar crime and securities litigation. Former federal prosecutor Bart Williams is an excellent choice for complex commercial litigation and white-collar criminal defense work. He gains significant acclaim for his recent work on behalf of Rambus and the Motion Picture Association of America.

THE FIRM O'Melveny has 15 specialist white-collar partners spread between its East and West Coast offices. Its Californian teams excel in FCPA and healthcare enforcement work, and have strong securities fraud, internal investigations and criminal antitrust capabilities. The group has been particularly active in the environmental arena and recently won an acquittal of a former WR Grace executive in a large-scale federal environmental prosecution. 

Sources say: "A great team with huge capability and extensive resources."

KEY INDIVIDUALS "Fantastic white-collar lawyer" Daniel Bookin chairs the practice and is highly respected for his government and internal investigations expertise. He recently represented the special litigation committee of a technology company in connection with a shareholder derivative action challenging a compensation program. Michael Tubach is managing partner of the firm's San Francisco office and a widely recognized antitrust, white-collar criminal defense and investigations practitioner. Recent work includes representing Hynix Semiconductor in criminal antitrust investigations and related civil actions concerning DRAM, SRAM and flash markets.

THE FIRM This team's areas of expertise include securities fraud, criminal antitrust, FCPA and healthcare fraud matters as well as internal corporate investigations. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS National practice chair Walt Brown's practice encompasses white-collar criminal defense, securities matters and business litigation. Mark Beck is highly regarded for his strength in civil, criminal and regulatory litigation. Melinda Haag's expertise includes securities fraud and SEC enforcement actions.

THE FIRM Market sources highlight Skadden's capacity for massive, complex criminal litigation on a national scale. The California group is noted for its impressive criminal trial capabilities and has been active in some of the most significant stock options backdating cases in recent years, including the successful defense of former Broadcom CFO William Ruehle. The team's experience spans securities fraud, money laundering, RICO, healthcare fraud, qui tam actions, insider trading violations and environmental crime investigations.

Sources Say: "A hugely impressive group for all kinds of criminal cases."

KEY INDVIDUALS The eminently experienced Richard Marmaro leads the firm's West Coast SEC enforcement and white-collar defense group and is recognized for "achieving success in important and high-profile cases." Jack Dicanio is "a real fighter" with strong trial experience. He handles a broad range of business, criminal and securities litigation matters. Notable work includes representing the estate of New Century Financial co-founder Edward Gotschall in securities class actions and a related SEC investigation.

THE FIRM Operating out of Los Angeles, Caldwell Leslie is a 25-attorney litigation boutique with a broad range of civil and criminal expertise. Noted for its prominence in high-profile complex cases, the group wins acclaim for its successful defense of Stanford Kurland, the former president of Countrywide, in connection with an SEC investigation into the company's collapse.

Sources Say: "An outstanding firm of smart, aggressive and conscientious lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Group head Michael Proctor's practice spans civil and criminal cases. A talented trial lawyer, peers have "a great deal of confidence in referring work to him." He recently represented a Certified Public Accountant and attorney accused of embezzling millions of dollars in client funds.

THE FIRM Crowell & Moring's 2008 merger with criminal defense boutique Lightfoot Vandevelde Sadowsky Crouchley has cemented its position in the white-collar arena on the West Coast. The lawyers handle government investigations, criminal trials, regulatory enforcement actions and internal investigations. The team has excellent strength in securities enforcement litigation, FCPA cases and healthcare fraud matters. Notable recent highlights include representing the former controller of New Century Financial in an SEC fraud case and acting for a former service coordinator at a prominent LA medical center in connection with a federal criminal investigation.

Sources Say: "An excellent, growing team with fantastic leading attorneys."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice group chair Janet Levine is prized by clients for her "patient guidance and calming manner in stressful situations." A talented trial lawyer, she has been representing a former executive of an international manufacturing company, which was indicted by the DOJ for FCPA violations. John Vandevelde is one of the most respected white-collar criminal defense attorneys in California. He led the team in the New Century case. He has extensive trial experience and is especially strong in securities fraud cases.

THE FIRM This California firm has offices in Los Angeles and Newport Beach and is renowned for its success in high-profile, precedent-setting cases. The white-collar defense group often works closely with the firm's strong securities department. The lawyers represent individuals and entities in tax, healthcare, mail and real estate fraud investigations among other matters. 

Sources Say: "An exceptionally well-regarded group, consistently involved in major cases."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice group co-chair Brian Hennigan, "clearly one of the best trial lawyers in the state," is a favorite among many peers and clients for his deep knowledge and superb white-collar capabilities. Notable recent work includes representing the Grand Rabbi Naftali Weisz in a criminal case alleging money laundering, tax fraud and illegal money remitting. John Hueston is renowned as "an exceptional younger lawyer with everything it takes to successfully handle a case: great brainpower, communication skills and in-depth technical legal knowledge." In 2009, he represented former Countrywide CEO Angelo Mozilo in SEC proceedings, a criminal investigation and related actions.

THE FIRM Clients consider Jones Day an excellent choice for white-collar work and appreciate the vast national resources of the firm. Notable highlights include representing First American Title in relation to an antitrust and unlawful business practices investigation by the San Diego County District Attorney.

Sources Say: "A tremendous group with the breadth and strength to handle the largest cases."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Outstanding litigator Brian Sun handles civil and criminal matters, including securities fraud, FCPA and political corruption cases. "A fabulous negotiator and an excellent team player," he draws praise for his creativity and strategic focus. "Top-flight trial lawyer" Robert Brewer is a leading white-collar crime and investigations attorney in the San Diego area. Market sources highlight his representation of insurance companies in procurement fraud cases. Brian O'Neill is an extremely experienced civil and criminal trial lawyer, with expertise in a broad range of areas. He was recently involved in the successful defense of trial attorney Pierce O'Donnell against campaign finance charges. Martha Boersch wins plaudits for her criminal and civil enforcement work in the securities, FCPA, accounting and healthcare arenas.

THE FIRM A giant of the litigation world, Quinn Emanuel's white-collar capabilities have greatly increased in recent years and it is emerging as a formidable player in California. Market sources note the 2009 arrival of talented trial lawyer Jim Asperger from O'Melveny & Myers. The team's expertise spans a broad array of white-collar cases, such as criminal antitrust, SEC investigation, healthcare fraud and FCPA matters. The lawyers recently represented Henry Nicholas, co-founder and former CEO of Broadcom, in a high-profile federal criminal indictment.

Sources Say: "A strong group with a number of fantastically able trial attorneys."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jim Asperger joined the firm as practice group co-chair in February 2009. Recent work includes representing former Broadcom general counsel David Dull in connection with the criminal investigation and proceedings of William Ruehle and Henry Nicholas and in a related SEC action. Co-chair John Potter is also famed as an outstanding trial lawyer and deemed to be "an extraordinarily talented attorney." He recently led the firm's representation of Henry Nicholas. He also successfully defended former Endocare CFO John Cracchiolo against charges of securities fraud, falsifying records and lying to auditors.  

THE FIRM Farella Braun continues to handle major antitrust price-fixing investigations and trials. Other areas of expertise include insider trading cases, FCPA issues, securities violations and Medicare fraud matters. The attorneys also conduct internal corporate investigations for audit committees and boards. The group has been representing the CFO of McKesson HBOC in multiple proceedings and investigations involving DOJ, SEC and shareholder class actions. 

Sources say: "An immensely strong white-collar practice backed up by leading environment, construction and civil litigation teams."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas Young is "an extremely well-respected trial lawyer in the local legal community." He has wide-ranging white-collar defense expertise that spans civil, criminal and regulatory proceedings as well as IP, antitrust and securities matters.

THE FIRM This group has the strong support of the firm's Chicago and Boston teams and is backed by the firm's international network of resources. Reflecting the firm's global capabilities, the California-based white-collar group has been representing two partners of PricewaterhouseCoopers, who are liquidators of the Antiguan bank Eurofed, in a case against the DOJ concerning the bank's assets. The team has also been representing Henry Samueli, the former chairman of the board of Broadcom, in a high-profile backdating case and related SEC investigation.

Sources Say: "We are constantly impressed by the quality of work."

"A strong team of strategic thinkers." 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Leading the firm's representation of Henry Samueli was Gordon Greenberg. A superb trial lawyer, he is a leading authority on financial fraud, money laundering and FCPA matters. He is described by one source as "the best in town." Russell Hayman has a strong niche in healthcare litigation and white-collar cases. Recent work includes acting as co-counsel for a major pharmaceutical company under federal and state investigation for off-label promotion of a biologic. Clients appreciate his ability to "quickly get up to speed with new and complex subject matters."

THE FIRM Sheppard Mullin's 2009 acquisition of a team of white-collar experts from Mayer Brown increased its strength in the area, and the group has come to the fore as a major state player in a range of sectors and industries.

Sources Say: "A strong team that continues to bolster its presence in the region."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Bryan Daly, a former Assistant US Attorney, co-chairs the government contracts and white-collar defense groups. He is a leading figure in contractor fraud and civil litigation. Recent highlights include representing Tyco International in a whistleblower action under the California False Claims Act. Another former Assistant US Attorney, Peter Morris has a broad white-collar defense practice and also handles healthcare, general business and securities litigation.

THE FIRM This nine-attorney, Berkeley-based team is widely held to be one of the best white-collar boutiques in California. The firm's stature is largely credited to the superb work of founding partner Cristina Arguedas. Market sources also highlight the tremendous level of expertise and support she has behind her. The team handles a wide range of matters from grand jury investigations and criminal cases to appellate litigation.

Sources Say: "A top-notch firm for representing companies and individuals in white-collar matters."

KEY INDIVIDUALS "Terrific strategic thinker" Cristina Arguedas is prized for her presence and energy in the courtroom. "A go-to criminal defense lawyer," she is involved in extremely high-profile matters.

THE FIRM This is one of the oldest and most respected litigation boutiques in California. Handling a broad spectrum of civil and criminal disputes, the group is well known for undertaking large-scale, complex white-collar matters. Recent work includes representing Broadcom's special litigation committee in a stock options backdating case.

Sources say: "A well-earned reputation as one of the best in the business."

KEY INDIVIDUALS "Exceptional trial lawyer" Terry Bird is renowned for his white-collar criminal defense capabilities. His practice covers securities, fraud, tax, customs and antitrust work. He has particular experience representing clients in the technology and energy sectors. Vincent Marella is "one of the deans of the white-collar Bar," according to sources. He has a varied practice representing high-level executives and is recognized for his expertise in fraud cases. Gary Lincenberg is vice-chair of the ABA's national White-Collar Crime Committee and a well-known figure in the local legal community. He is prized for his experience of cases in the financial, real estate and environmental sectors. Ronald Nessim has particular expertise in the healthcare and entertainment fields. Notable recent work includes representing a former Hilton executive in a case alleging theft of trade secrets.

THE FIRM This four-attorney, San Francisco-based boutique excels in a broad array of cases relating to the financial services industry, including securities investigations and insider trading matters. The firm is also strong in civil defense litigation. Recent work includes acting for a major insurance company in connection with a criminal investigation and handling various cases relating to commercial bank failures. 

Sources say: "A fantastic, highly visible team, which is excellent at representing individuals."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nanci Clarence is prized for her "extraordinary dedication to clients." She leads the way in a number of white-collar defense areas including international investigations, securities, antitrust and environmental matters. Assisting her is Nicole Howell Neubert who draws praise as "an extremely confident and capable younger attorney."

THE FIRM The San Francisco office of this national litigation firm continues to handle high-stakes, complex litigation matters. The team has acted on a number of criminal environmental investigations; recent highlights include representing the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative in Hawaii in connection with a DOJ investigation into alleged violations of the Endangered Species Act. The group also acted on behalf of Dr. Scott Harkonen in an FDA off-label marketing criminal case concerning the drug Actimmune.

Sources Say: "A team of terrific trial lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Goodman is often brought in to handle some of the firm's most significant trials on the West Coast. With a wide-ranging white-collar practice, he is particularly well-versed in environmental and antitrust cases. Strong trial lawyer Mark Topel's expertise includes fraud, government procurement, antitrust, securities, insurance, tax, healthcare, civil rights and public corruption matters. 

THE FIRM Formed in 2004, Scheper Kim & Overland LLP - previously known as Overland Borenstein Scheper & Kim LLP - has quickly developed a sterling criminal defense and civil litigation practice in the Los Angeles area. In 2009, Marc Harris moved over from Mayer Brown. Market sources report that his arrival further strengthens the white-collar team.

Sources Say: "A boutique that has quickly grown into a formidable player in the region."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources laud the "superb courtroom skills" of David Scheper. He draws praise for his recent defense of former KPMG investment consultant Robert Pfaff. The addition of Marc Harris is seen as a shrewd acquisition by the firm; Harris is "an absolutely fantastic trial lawyer" with experience in an array of criminal investigations, prosecutions and commercial disputes.

THE FIRM This 11-attorney boutique has effectively cornered the market in Sacramento. The group handles the whole range of white-collar defense work and has a substantial plaintiff-side practice in civil fraud cases.

Sources Say: "A go-to firm in Sacramento with a tremendous reputation in the white-collar area."

KEY INDIVIDUALS George O'Connell is an immensely experienced trial lawyer. He has in-depth expertise in all areas of business litigation and government investigations. He also has significant experience in securities fraud and environmental criminal cases. Charles Stevens has a broad-ranging white-collar practice, with noted expertise in Medicaid fraud. Sources highlight him as "an extremely smart, reliable and honorable lawyer."

THE FIRM Swanson & McNamara is a litigation boutique based in San Francisco. Sources commend the firm's streamlined and efficient approach to case management. The team has been busy dealing with the aftermath of stock options backdating cases from previous years and has a strong docket of criminal antitrust matters. Recent work includes a major economic espionage jury trial.

Sources Say: "A superbly strong, smart and savvy group that uses its resources extremely wisely."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Edward Swanson and Mary McNamara are both highly respected experts in all areas of white-collar criminal defense. Swanson has strong expertise in SEC investigations and work involving various regulatory agencies. McNamara is recommended for her broader civil practice, her antitrust-related experience and her courtroom skills.