THE FIRM This practice acts out of Washington, DC and Atlanta and offers expertise on the complete spectrum of privacy and data security issues. The group is notably strong in regards to cross-border data transfers and drafting internal privacy policies for major companies. It is also active in the healthcare sector and regularly advises clients on compliance with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) legislation.
Sources say: “The firm has never disappointed me; it always goes the extra mile.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Paul Martino leads a broad practice operating from Washington, DC. He represents trade associations and businesses before Congress and federal government departments on various privacy and data security matters. He is active in the advertising, financial services, retail and telecom sectors. Atlanta-based David Keating "has great technical knowledge and responds to queries in a timely fashion.” His practice focuses principally on transactional matters and compliance with US and EU privacy legislation.
THE FIRM This firm is recognized as a key player in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. It advises clients on HIPAA and HITECH legislation compliance as well as offering expertise on a wide range of privacy and data security matters. The team is equally at home with litigation and regulatory work and covers everything from digital media strategies to the management of sensitive personal data. In addition, it is also active in a number of national security matters.
Sources say: “A smart and impressive team.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Ronald Lee is highly regarded for his work in the national security arena. Clients appreciate his technical ability and methodical approach. Nancy Perkins is lauded as "a terrific and indispensable member of the team. She's down to earth, approachable and cuts out the legal jargon." Her practice focuses on legislative advocacy and compliance counseling. Both attorneys are based in Washington, DC.
THE FIRM This full-service practice offers expertise on the complete range of privacy matters and benefits from the strong global network of an international firm. It advises on privacy policies, safe harbor compliance, cross-border data flow and FTC regulations. Acting out of Chicago, Palo Alto and New York, the team handles regulatory and litigation work across many industry sectors including technology, healthcare and financial services. Clients include Sony Pictures Entertainment and Bank of America.
Client Service “Due to its huge global presence, the firm can provide local expertise in multiple jurisdictions. The team also supplies great client updates and issues a helpful privacy handbook.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Chicago-based Brian Hengesbaugh "always tailors his legal advice effectively to suit the needs of the business.” His practice focuses on software licensing, e-commerce, data protection and international commercial law relating to technology transactions. Lothar Determann enters the rankings this year after much effusive praise from clients. “He has a great understanding of both US and EU privacy laws. His style is easygoing but direct and he always makes himself available to offer assistance,” sources report.
THE FIRM This Washington, DC-based practice is highly regarded for its regulatory work, and continues to expand its litigation capabilities in the privacy and data security arena. It is active in a broad range of sectors including telecommunications, pharmaceuticals and media. Clients particularly appreciate the solid working relationship the firm has developed with various regulatory bodies such as the FTC.
Sources say: "A fabulous practice - one of the major players in the field."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Top-tier lawyer Erin Egan is described as "an excellent practitioner - quick, smart and available." Her practice focuses on data breach response, assessment of privacy policies and advising clients on pending spyware, privacy and data security legislation. Mark Plotkin "knows financial services privacy law inside out." He advises banks and other financial institutions on a variety of privacy and data security issues. David Fagan is praised for "providing prompt and practical advice." He counsels clients on compliance with federal and state privacy legislation.
Since publication, Erin M Egan has moved in-house.
THE FIRM This full-service team represents companies on a wide variety of privacy matters such as data breach notification and marketing regulations. It operates across a broad range of industries but is most active in the financial services and telecommunications sectors. As a firm with a strong global network, DLA Piper is able to counsel clients with multijurisdictional needs. In addition, the group regularly advises on IP liability, cyber security, domain name registrations, disputes and transfers, hacking and unsolicited commercial e-mail. The practice is principally based in Washington, DC.
Sources say: "A sophisticated and diligent practice."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Thomas Boyd "has a great depth of knowledge and is also highly efficient." He counsels major financial service companies on domestic and international data compliance and public policy. Clients describe James Halpert as "outstanding - his knowledge of the legal and political landscape is second to none.” He focuses on regulatory issues particularly within the field of e-commerce. His clients include large financial institutions and trade associations.
THE FIRM This Chicago-based practice is primarily known for its privacy work in the entertainment and media sectors, although it has broadened its activities in recent times to include clients in the retail and financial service industries. The team advises on data security policies in addition to privacy matters relating to online advertising, marketing and promotions.
Sources say: “The team is up to speed with this fast-moving area of law. Its advice is always current and relevant to our business.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Thomas Smedinghoff is notably active in e-commerce and information security. His clients include both private sector companies and public sector bodies requiring advice on compliance with privacy regulations. Justine Gottshall counsels clients regarding their online marketing activities and is also renowned for her work on consumer protection matters.
Since publication, Justine Gottshall has joined InfoLawGroup LLP
THE FIRM This practice receives a ranking this year following enthusiastic recommendations from both peers and clients. Over the past twelve months it has increased its market visibility and grown its client base considerably. The team offers a full service in privacy matters across numerous sectors including financial services, healthcare, technology and e-commerce. Clients include household names such as eBay, Skype and Yahoo!.
Sources say: "The team is prompt, efficient and provides pertinent advice."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Serwin is particularly active in the field of behavioral advertising in addition to more traditional areas of privacy law. He is well regarded within the industry and described as "an excellent privacy lawyer, a real expert in the field." He acts out of San Diego.
THE FIRM The Hogan Lovells merger has strengthened the reach and capabilities of this group, hence its move up to Band 1 this year. The team is widely praised for its expertise in state, federal and EU privacy laws and operates across a wide range of sectors including media and healthcare. It also advises government entities such as the FTC on the development of future privacy law strategy. The group boasts an impressive client roster of multinational companies such as American Express and Cisco Systems.
Client Service “From a client service perspective, this team is really outstanding.”
Commercial Awareness “The team has an excellent understanding of the politics and PR issues surrounding privacy law.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Christopher Wolf is widely regarded as an expert in the field. His practice revolves around data security breach notification, behavioral marketing and e-commerce. Clients describe him as “practical and knowledgeable. The advice he provides is always thoughtful and considered.” Marcy Wilder is a healthcare privacy specialist. She counsels clients on HIPAA and HITECH legislation compliance and is admired for her "pragmatic approach and great network of contacts." Both attorneys are based in Washington, DC.
THE FIRM This practice is widely praised for its strength in litigation as well as its skill in advisory and regulatory matters. It advises clients on the full spectrum of privacy issues including data security breaches, records and information management and legislation compliance. The group continues to impress with its international expertise and is particularly skilled in cross-border data transfers. It primarily acts out of the firm's New York and Washington, DC offices.
Client Service "This highly responsive and knowledgeable team provides solutions in double-quick time.”
Commercial Awareness “Hunton & Williams is well connected with regulatory bodies.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Based in New York, Lisa Sotto maintains a high profile on the market and continues to receive praise from both clients and competitors. One client states: “She has a tremendous wealth of knowledge on privacy matters. She's also incredibly proactive and always alerts us to issues before they become problems.” Sotto's practice involves managing data security breaches, assisting companies in their certification to the safe harbor framework and drafting information security policies.
THE FIRM This distinguished practice advises both domestic and international clients on multiple privacy and data security issues. It has an excellent understanding of FTC regulations, as several of the attorneys have previously worked for the commission. Although the team is largely known for its regulatory work, it also handles litigation following data security breaches. A further strength of the department lies in its detailed knowledge of online advertising and marketing law.
Client Service “Not only did the firm's attorneys learn our business, but they worked with us every step of the way to reach a favorable resolution.”
Commercial Awareness “The firm offers great insight into the workings of the FTC.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Dana Rosenfeld is regarded as "a real legend in the data privacy field." Clients appreciate her great connections with regulatory bodies as well as her pragmatic and logical approach. She advises on contract negotiations, privacy policies and issues relating to social media. Advertising specialist John Villafranco "is an amazing driving force and a great asset to the team. He's always proactive and a pleasure to work with.” Alysa Zeltzer Hutnik continues to grow her market reputation. Clients describe her as "exceptionally well versed in privacy law. She took the time to understand the needs of our business." In addition to contentious work, she also counsels major clients on compliance audits, breach notification procedures and privacy policies. All three attorneys are based in Washington, DC.
THE FIRM This multidisciplinary practice brings together attorneys from varying backgrounds who also have a grounding in privacy law. It acts out of New York, Chicago and Washington, DC and serves clients from the financial services and technology sectors.
Sources say: “A highly competent team that produces excellent work.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Based in Washington, DC, Jeffrey Taft advises on privacy legislation such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). “He keeps up with this fast-changing area of the law, so his advice is always relevant and business-focused,” sources say.
THE FIRM This team is renowned for its privacy expertise within the healthcare sector. In addition to HIPAA and HITECH compliance, it advises clients on data security breaches and cross-border data flows. As the group favors a multidisciplinary approach, it includes attorneys from several practice areas such as employment and IP. The practice centers around Boston and Chicago.
Client Service "The firm is tremendously customer service-centric and ensures clients' needs are rapidly met."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice co-heads Heather Egan Sussman and Daniel Gottlieb are key contacts.
THE FIRM This practice offers expertise on a wide array of privacy and data security matters such as data protection policies, compliance audits and cross-border data transfers. The group operates from offices on both the East and West Coasts, serving clients in highly regulated sectors such as financial services, credit reporting, healthcare and pharmaceuticals. In addition to regulatory work, the team also represents domestic and international clients in litigation following data security breaches.
Commercial Awareness "The team stands out for its credentials, expertise and in-depth market knowledge.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Based in Washington, DC, Richard Fischer focuses on data security issues within the financial services sector and counts major banks, insurers and retailers among his clientele. He is described as "an outstanding individual." In the same city, Reed Freeman is particularly active in data breach notification, advertising and direct marketing compliance. Sources regard this first-rate attorney as "a great asset to the firm." In New York, Miriam Wugmeister is lauded as “extremely practical and phenomenally smart. Just about one of the best privacy advisers there is.” She counsels clients on the collection, use and sharing of personal data. Also in New York, Joan Warrington is highly experienced in credit card, joint venture and regulatory enforcement issues. Acting out of DC, Andrew Smith specializes in privacy matters relating to credit reporting, collections and consumer financial protection.
THE FIRM This well-respected practice moves up the rankings to Band 2 this year following much positive feedback from clients and competitors alike. The group offers a complete service in privacy matters and operates in a variety of sectors from retail to telecommunications. Its client roster has grown over the past twelve months and includes industry giants such as Google, Facebook and Twitter. The practice handles regulatory and advisory work in addition to litigious matters. It also enjoys a wide geographical spread with offices in Washington, DC and Seattle.
Commercial Awareness “Numerous clients rely on the team for advice on cutting-edge issues in the privacy world.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Albert Gidari is recognized for his vast experience and in-depth knowledge of privacy matters. One client states: “He is quite simply one of the smartest and best lawyers I've ever worked with.” Gidari specializes in online data security, electronic surveillance and communications law. Michael Sussmann is "an experienced practitioner, sensitive to his clients' needs." His practice covers a range of areas including privacy law compliance and counseling clients on cyber attacks and other Internet crime. He is particularly active in the telecommunications and social networking sectors.
THE FIRM This full-service group is well versed in privacy, data collection, information security and information management matters. It is renowned for its expertise in e-discovery as well as its extensive activity in the healthcare and technology sectors. The team counsels domestic and international clients on data breach notification and online privacy policies. It acts out of Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco.
Sources say: "One of the best US firms for e-discovery matters."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Deborah Thoren-Peden is notably active on privacy issues within the financial services industry. She continues to advise Blackhawk Network Services on compliance and regulatory issues relating to prepaid cards and gift cards. Clients greatly appreciate her expertise in this area. She is based in Los Angeles.
THE FIRM This well-established practice offers privacy advice to clients across a number of sectors including financial services, media, retail and healthcare. From its base in New York, the team handles a broad selection of privacy matters including cross-border data transfers, data breach response and legislation compliance. In addition to regulatory work, the team is notably active in high-profile privacy litigations.
Sources say: “Proskauer Rose is extremely capable.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Kristen Mathews is lauded as "a remarkable regulatory lawyer." Her practice focuses on privacy issues relating to e-commerce, online advertising and technology. She recently represented the ABA in a case relating to the FTC's Red Flags Rule.
THE FIRM This Boston-based team is most notably active in the healthcare, hospitality, insurance and financial service sectors. Its strength lies in litigation but it also handles regulatory and advisory work. It represents clients on a number of high-profile litigations following data security breaches.
Sources say: "The firm has the capacity to deliver on complex deals."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas Meal enters the rankings this year following enthusiastic feedback. One client states: "He's a remarkable lawyer. His knowledge of our industry, both legally and practically, has proved invaluable."
THE FIRM This firm continues to expand its capabilities in privacy and data security with the addition of an office in Palo Alto. Across the group, over 35 lawyers dedicate their time to a wide variety of privacy matters including data protection, information security, e-commerce and records management. The team also counsels clients on compliance issues and provides advice following cyber crimes and data breaches. It operates across many sectors but is most notably active in healthcare. International and domestic clients greatly appreciate the team's expertise in this area.
Client Service "The team is committed to top-quality service."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Expert Alan Charles Raul is praised as "super smart, super up-to-date and commercially aware. He's a pleasure to work with." Raul often represents clients in FTC investigations relating to sensitive data security breaches. Clients regard Edward McNicholas as "a highly effective lawyer - responsive and well attuned to client needs." His experience extends to online brand protection, social media, cloud computing and e-discovery. Both attorneys act out of Washington, DC.
THE FIRM This Washington, DC-based practice is notably active in the pharmaceutical, healthcare and technology sectors. It focuses on developing security policies, data breach responses and privacy audits in addition to its activity in antipiracy and IP matters. Clients include Internet service providers, games publishers and satellite and cable providers, who appreciate the team's in-depth knowledge of privacy and IP law. The team also handles litigation work, often representing clients in FTC investigations.
Sources say: “We adore this team! It is responsive, pragmatic and easy to work with.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Todd Daubert is a key member of the firm's internet and data protection practice group.
THE FIRM This highly regarded practice moves up to Band 1 this year following much effusive praise from market sources. In addition to providing expertise in more traditional areas of privacy and data security law, the group is making a name for itself in the avant-garde field of behavioral advertising. The team also advises lawmakers in Washington, DC on the development of federal privacy legislation. As the practice is largely based in the capital, it benefits from a strong network of contacts in Congress. Furthermore, the team regularly represents clients in contentious matters such as FTC investigations.
Commercial Awareness “The team deals with cutting-edge issues in the privacy field and demonstrates a sound understanding of market trends.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Stuart Ingis is widely regarded as a top authority on privacy and data security matters. Clients describe him as "a strategic thinker, dynamic and responsive." He specializes in Internet-related legislation, e-commerce and consumer protection. Emilio Cividanes is "exceptional at translating this emerging field of law into workable and sound contract documents and procedures.” He counsels clients following data security incidents and represents them in any resulting litigation. Both attorneys act out of the Washington, DC office.
THE FIRM This Washington, DC-based team is widely praised for its expertise in privacy matters relating to the healthcare industry. It focuses principally on regulatory and advisory work, counseling clients on a broad range of issues including HIPAA and HITECH legislation compliance. In addition, the team is notably active in the financial services and telecommunications sectors.
Sources say: "The firm has great stature and offers sound, practical advice."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice chair Kirk Nahra specializes in healthcare privacy, information security, compliance programs and insurance fraud issues. Sources describe him as "a fantastic lawyer who keeps abreast of new developments in the field. He avoids legal jargon and goes the extra mile for his clients."
THE FIRM This excellent 11-lawyer team focuses on data privacy issues within the financial services sector, but is also active in healthcare, retail and human resources. The attorneys possess a mix of litigation, regulatory, counseling and transactional expertise which enables them to offer a full service to both domestic and international clients. In a recent highlight, the team advised Facebook in connection with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
Sources say: “A highly regarded team, well versed in a variety of privacy issues.”
KEY INDIVIDUALS Leading lawyer Beckwith Burr is described as “knowledgeable, calm under pressure and responsive to her clients' needs.” Her practice involves representing clients before the FTC and advising on cross-border data flow. David Medine is particularly experienced in privacy matters relating to the financial services industry. He focuses on counseling, defense of government investigations, lobbying and contract negotiations.
THE FIRM As a relatively new player, this boutique outfit continues to makes its presence felt on the market. It concentrates exclusively on privacy and data security matters and is therefore able to offer clients a specialized service. It is well regarded for its advice on specific legislation such as HIPAA and FCRA regulations. The practice is based in Washington, DC.
KEY INDIVIDUALS Marc Zwillinger is described as "an excellent lawyer." He is well versed in legislation governing Internet practices such as the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA). Randy Sabett recently joined the team from SNR Denton. He is praised for his "sound technical and engineering knowledge coupled with strong legal capabilities.” He serves as outside counsel to a wide variety of companies seeking advice on software licenses and technology transaction agreements.
In Atlanta,
Margaret Eisenhauer of Privacy & Information Management Services–Margaret P. Eisenhauer, P.C. is well regarded for her experience in drafting and implementing privacy policies.
Michael Vatis of Steptoe & Johnson LLP acts out of New York and specializes in cyber crime, e-commerce and technology matters. Dividing his time between Silicon Valley and Los Angeles,
Ian Ballon of Greenberg Traurig, LLP is renowned as a skilled litigator concentrating on privacy matters in the technology, media and entertainment industries. Palo Alto-based
Francoise Gilbert of IT Law Group is well versed in cloud computing and cross-border data transfer.
Ieuan Jolly of Loeb & Loeb LLP acts out of New York where his practice covers behavioral advertising and data optimization matters. He receives praise for his
"pragmatic and down-to-earth approach." Benita Kahn of Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP is
"keenly aware of how corporations do business and tailors her advice to the situation." Her practice largely serves the financial services sector and operates out of Columbus, Ohio. Based in Boston,
Cynthia Larose of Mintz Levin Cohn Ferris Glovsky and Popeo PC advises clients in the retail, healthcare and technology sectors on compliance with state and federal privacy laws.
Lydia Parnes of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is described as
"knowledgeable and well connected." Her practice focuses on behavioral advertising and information management. She acts out of Washington, DC.
Justine Gottshall has recently left Edwars Wildman Palmer to join InfoLawGroup LLP. She counsels clients regarding their online marketing activities and is also renowned for her work on consumer protection matters.