Product Liability & Mass Torts: Nationwide

THE FIRM Dechert is known for its formidable strength in pharmaceutical litigation, and is highly valued for its broad bench of knowledgeable and experienced lawyers. The team attracts an impressive number of high-profile pharmaceutical clients, including AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson and Merck. It also continues to build its reputation in the tobacco area.

Client Service "This is a great group of attorneys who are easy to work with and really care about their clients."

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers have a really impressive knowledge about both the industry and our business."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Ezra Rosenberg is the cochair of the mass torts and product liability group. He is expert at handling fraud, mass tort and product liability class action suits, in addition to a variety of complex commercial litigation matters. He has recently acted as liaison counsel for the lead pigment industry in the ongoing lead paint litigation, and is one of Philip Morris's national counsel. Robert Heim is widely recognized as a leader of the Philadelphia Bar. He has a broad practice and has recently been involved in the representation of Pfizer in the hormone therapy litigation. 

THE FIRM This firm is widely considered a leader for product liability defense, and has especially impressed with its representation of pharmaceutical companies. It continues to be involved in the sector's most high-profile matters, including hormone therapy, Seroquel, Viagra and Reglan litigation. It was also recently retained by Knauf Plasterboard Tianjin, in mass tort litigation arising from the importation of Chinese drywall.

Client Service "The team provides exactly the kind of client service that you want. The lawyers are very good at listening to their clients and working with them."

Commercial Awareness "We value the team's ability to think outside the box. The lawyers work in thoughtful and creative ways to address our needs."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Steven Glickstein is an excellent mass tort coordinator and strategist, and is particularly noted for his strength in the pharmaceutical area. "He sees the big picture, but also is on top of all the details," says one client. Jay Mayesh has a broad product liability practice and extensive jury trial experience. Both partners have been heavily involved in the Chinese drywall case.

THE FIRM This team has developed a premier reputation for representing pharmaceutical and tobacco companies. It continues to act as national counsel for Bausch & Lomb in litigation relating to its 2006 recall of ReNu with MoistureLoc contact lens solution. Other high-profile clients include Eli Lilly, Pfizer, Toyota, Ford and Philip Morris.

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers take a commercial and common-sense approach to litigation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The seasoned litigation expert Harvey Kaplan is the head of the pharmaceutical and medical device practice. He has a terrific reputation for representing major pharmaceutical companies and is known as a great adviser to clients on how to manage the risks associated with product liability litigation. David Erickson is the chair of the environmental law practice group. His practice is devoted to environmental litigation including class actions, toxic tort litigation and environmental regulatory issues. Kenneth Reilly is widely recognized for his defense of companies in the tobacco industry. Scott Sayler has a broad practice, which focuses primarily on the representation of product manufacturers involved in product liability and commercial litigation. Andrew See’s practice focuses on the trial and appeal of product liability claims. He is particularly well versed in the life sciences area. Sean Wajert recently joined the team from Dechert. He has served as trial counsel in numerous cases and class actions.

THE FIRM This firm has a deep bench of experienced litigators who have defended clients in a broad array of mass torts and products cases. The group's focus remains in the pharmaceutical area; however, it is widely praised for its representation of electronic companies, automobile manufacturers and tobacco companies. This year the group has been involved in a number of high-profile cases acting for Merck in litigation related to its pain relief drug Vioxx, and Pfizer in Neurontin litigation.

Client Service "The lawyers are fantastic: client-focused and a pleasure to work with."

Commercial Awareness "The firm has some really top-notch legal strategists."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sheila Birnbaum heads the mass torts and insurance litigation group alongside John Beisner. She recently secured an important victory on behalf of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance, which set important constitutional limits on punitive damages awards. She also successfully argued the Supreme Court’s landmark asbestos medical monitoring case, Buckley v Metro North Railroad. The experienced litigator John Beisner focuses on the defense of class actions, mass tort matters and other complex civil litigation. He has been involved in a number of high-profile matters recently, including representing Verizon Wireless, Transocean and Philip Morris. Mark Cheffo represents defendants in product liability, insurance and mass torts litigation. He is particularly active in the representation of pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers, and is currently acting for Pfizer in Neurontin litigation. The Washington, DC-based Jessica Davidson Miller has continued to develop a broad base of experience defending complex civil and appellate litigation in both federal and state courts.

THE FIRM This team is highlighted for its ability to tackle high-profile, high-stakes product liability cases. It is particularly strong in the pharmaceutical area, serving as lead trial and coordinating counsel in numerous major drug and medical device trials. Clients include Bayer, Merck and Pfizer. The group has also recently handled a lot of work on behalf of GE.

Client Service "The lawyers do an excellent job of handling difficult cases efficiently and at a fair cost."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas Marvin is primarily recognized for his work in pharmaceutical company defense. He is widely known for his involvement in the Vioxx settlement and for his role in YAZ litigation on behalf of Bayer. Lane Heard has recently been representing Wyeth in defense of its hormone therapy drug Prempro. Heidi Hubbard receives high praise from clients and peers for her diverse range of experience and personable approach. One source commented: "She is consistently well prepared and one of the most likable lawyers in the courtroom." Stephen Raber has been counseling Genentech with regards to its psoriasis treatment, Raptiva.

THE FIRM Mass tort, consumer litigation and product liability defense are a strong focus of Arnold & Porter’s litigation practice. The group's experience encompasses a range of sectors, including tobacco, chemical, consumer products, oil and gas and pharmaceutical. Long-standing clients include BP, Philip Morris and Atlantic Richfield.

Sources say: "The lawyers are highly intelligent and particularly strong on the science side of things." 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Philip Curtis is cochair of the firm's product liability litigation group alongside Eric Rubel. Curtis continues to be involved in the representation of Philip Morris in statewide 'light cigarette' class actions alleging breaches of consumer protection law and unfair business practices. Rubel focuses his practice on product safety matters and related litigation. Peter Zimroth has a broad products practice which includes pharmaceutical, tobacco and food and beverage-related litigation. Les Sotsky is the head of the environmental team and specializes in toxic tort and environmental litigation. Sources say: "He is extremely smart, writes well and is very service-oriented." Peter Grossi is a seasoned litigator and a highly accomplished pharmaceutical specialist. The "terrific trial attorney" James Rosenthal has a diverse product liability practice, and is currently working with Curtis on the 'light cigarette' class actions.

THE FIRM Bartlit Beck has an incredible reputation for its trial expertise and ability to deal with complex, high-profile litigation. Sources particularly commend the group's hard-working approach and accessibility. It has recently been engaged in work on behalf of DuPont, Bayer, Merck, Georgia-Pacific and Federal Signal.

Sources say:  "It is the hardest-working group I've ever seen, in addition to being really skilled lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Philip Beck is a standout product liability lawyer who has a commanding presence in the courtroom. Sources say: "He is brilliant - one of the premier trial lawyers in the country." Donald Scott has dedicated much of his time to representing NL Industries in lawsuits involving Dutch Boy lead paint products. He is also heavily involved in the representation of AstraZeneca in Seroquel litigation. Adam Hoeflich is experienced in handling a broad range of products issues and mass torts. He is currently lead counsel for Bayer in the high-profile lawsuits relating to its oral contraceptives YAZ and Yasmin.

THE FIRM This global group has a comprehensive product liability practice, handling a range of matters including pharmaceutical and medical device, automobile and tobacco litigation. The team is currently representing Yamaha in defense of its Rhino recreational and utility vehicle, and Sherwin Williams in lead paint litigation. The group is particularly well known for its strength in the tobacco arena, and most recently for its success in achieving seven defense verdicts for R.J. Reynolds in the 'Engle progeny' trials.

Sources say: "The team can always be relied upon to do a good job."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The seasoned litigator Theodore Grossman is best known for his work for the tobacco industry. He is currently representing R.J. Reynolds in ongoing litigation in Florida. Practice chair Paul Pohl is lead attorney in the Yamaha Rhino litigation.

THE FIRM This full-service, global firm has a broad national product liability practice. It handles litigation and counseling across the automotive, pharmaceutical, tobacco and environment sectors. Clients particularly highlight the firm's deep bench of experienced trial lawyers. Recent clients include 3M, Dow Chemical, ExxonMobil, GM and GlaxoSmithKline.

Sources say: "This a very strong group; the lawyers are terrific."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chilton Varner is a highly accomplished trial lawyer, and is widely renowned as a "standout within the product liability field." She has served as lead trial and appellate counsel for several of the country’s largest pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers. Varner and her colleague Andrew Bayman are currently representing GlaxoSmithKline as national coordinating counsel and lead trial counsel in the Paxil litigation. Bayman is the current chair of the firm's product liability practice, and represents an array of pharmaceutical, medical device and automobile companies. Richard Schneider is widely known for his work on behalf of the tobacco industry. Randall Bassett represents pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers against wrongful death and personal injury claims. He is currently representing a large shipping and logistics company in a personal injury case.

THE FIRM This team is widely recognized as a leader in tobacco litigation. However, clients recommend the team across a broad range of industries, including pharmaceutical, aviation, toxic tort and automobile. The group recently defended 3M in a toxic tort putative class action brought by more than 400 plaintiffs.  

Sources say: "This is a litigation powerhouse. I deeply respect the attorneys' skills and judgment."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Leslie Smith is a talented litigator, who focuses on pharmaceutical and consumer class action cases. Andrew McGaan specializes in tobacco litigation and is praised for his tenacity in the courtroom. One interviewee commented: "He has a great rapport with juries. He's the whole package."

THE FIRM Sidley Austin has an established and accomplished product liability practice, which earns particular praise for its geographic coverage and depth of experience. The team represents clients in major class actions, multidistrict litigation and appeals across the medical, consumer, food, automotive and aviation industries. Recently, the team has received particular acclamation for its handling of climate change litigation and toxic tort issues.

Client Service "The lawyers are experienced, dependable and a pleasure to work with."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sara Gourley is widely recognized as a leader in pharmaceutical and medical device defense. She receives particular praise for her skill in acting as coordinating counsel in national trials. Michael Davis focuses on the defense of product liability claims involving pharmaceuticals, chemicals, consumer products and food products. Sources say: "He is a highly skilled lawyer, good strategist and has a deep knowledge of the industry." Debra Pole is a prominent litigator with a focus on the representation of pharmaceutical companies. She has recently handled a number of matters for Amgen and is currently acting as lead counsel for Merck in Fosamax litigation. David Buente is an expert in environmental litigation and legislative and rulemaking matters. He has recently had a particular focus on climate change litigation, defending utilities against allegations of greenhouse gas emissions. Maja Eaton is experienced at handling a broad range of product liability cases, including class actions and multidistrict litigation in pharmaceutical, medical device and asbestos matters. Eugene Schoon focuses on product liability defense, with particular emphasis on pharmaceutical products and medical devices. He continues to be heavily involved in Trasylol multidistrict litigation.

THE FIRM This Denver-based litigation boutique is highly experienced in all aspects of product liability trials. It is experienced in a wide range of industries, but has recently been particularly active in pharmaceutical litigation. It continues to act as national counsel to Pfizer in connection with wrongful death and personal injury allegations against Zoloft, Neurontin and hormone replacement therapy medication.

Sources say: "It is an absolutely top-quality firm of terrifically experienced trial lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The outstanding Malcolm Wheeler focuses on large and complex business litigation and product liability trials. He has been heavily involved in the representation of Pfizer in the aforementioned matters. Sources say: "He is an incredibly smart individual, who communicates very effectively with people at all levels." John Trigg is recognized for his depth of experience and leadership skill. He is representing Crocs Footwear against allegations of defective design causing personal injury. John Fitzpatrick has a reputation as a go-to trial attorney for high-profile product liability cases. He recently successfully defended GE in a substantial asbestos case. James Hooper specializes in the defense of medical, scientific and technology-based companies. Clients commented: "He is very talented in the courtroom, thoughtful and creative."

THE FIRM This group is well known for its trial strength, in particular with regards to the defense of automobile manufacturers. It is currently involved in a number of high-profile matters, with an impressive client list that includes Honda, Ford and Toyota.

Sources say: "It is the go-to firm for automobile litigation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Paul Cereghini specializes in the defense of automobile manufacturers. In 2010 he successfully defended Yamaha in the first of 174 California consolidated 'Rhino' personal injury cases to go to trial. One client commented: "He is a brilliant litigator – scarily smart. He is always three steps ahead of you." The managing partner Joel Smith is commended for his expert handling of personal injury litigation in the automobile sector. Sources say: "He is very empathetic, likable and builds excellent rapport with juries."

THE FIRM Butler Snow represents clients across a number of industries including automotive, aviation, agricultural and industrial chemicals. The group is widely commended for its extensive national trial experience.

KEY INDIVIDUALS The highly accomplished trial lawyer Christy Jones is widely recognized as a leader in the defense of pharmaceutical products litigation. Sources say: "Christy is terrific. She is very experienced and has superb judgment."

THE FIRM Covington & Burling has an excellent reputation in pharmaceutical litigation. It has had a highly successful year, including several reversals on appeal against Hoffmann-La Roche in Accutane litigation. The group has recently handled cases on behalf of clients including Merck, AstraZeneca, Genentech, Eli Lilly and GlaxoSmithKline.

Client Service "The team is a delight to work with. The attorneys are personable and approachable."

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers are wonderful business partners and are highly respected, by both adversaries and the judiciary."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The cochair of the practice group, Robert Brock focuses on the defense of pharmaceutical and life sciences companies. He has been heavily involved in the representation of Genentech in the high-profile lawsuits alleging injury from Rituxan. Theodore Voorhees' practice includes a range of product liability and toxic tort matters with particular emphasis on mass tort litigation and trade association liability. He is particularly highlighted for his work on behalf of alcoholic beverage manufacturers. Patrick Davies cochairs the group with Brock, and also focuses his practice in the pharmaceutical and medical sector. He recently led the defense of Merck and Schering-Plough in the Congressional investigation of Vytorin litigation. Paul Schmidt continues to impress sources with his successful track record in pharmaceutical litigation and appeals. He has led the team's representation of Hoffmann-La Roche in the Accutane litigation.

THE FIRM DLA Piper's extensive practice covers pharmaceuticals, food, automotive, toxic torts and consumer products. In addition to its firm foothold in the pharmaceutical industry, the group serves as national counsel for Porsche, BAE Systems and Kinder Morgan. Clients particularly value the team's ability to draw on an international pool of resources.

Sources say: "It is a great group of lawyers, which continues to be involved in complex, high-profile litigation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Loren Brown is cochair of the practice. He has a diverse civil litigation practice with a particular focus in the pharmaceutical sector. Recent highlights include acting for Pfizer in Premarin and Prempro litigation. One source reflected: "There is usually a difference between the attorneys who try cases and those who shape the law. There are a few who do both. Loren is one of them."

THE FIRM This Texas-based firm has a successful reputation for litigating complex product liability matters. The team has recently been involved in a number of water contamination cases on behalf of Vulcan Materials and Chevron Phillips.

Client Service "The team's level of service was exceptional."

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers have an excellent understanding of the issues we face."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The seasoned defense lawyer Otway Denny is known as a go-to for the oil industry. He is experienced at handling a wide array of toxic tort litigation and personal injury claims. Jonathan Skidmore focuses primarily on pharmaceuticals and medical device litigation, with an emphasis on mass torts. Senior statesman Terry Tottenham has a broad range of trial experience across the electronic, pharmaceutical and technology sectors. Jan Dodd recently joined the practice at Fulbright. She specializes in the representation of pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers.

THE FIRM This team receives wide acclamation for its representation of pharmaceutical companies. The firm is currently sharing the role of national coordinating counsel in the defense of Merck in the vast number of lawsuits alleging personal injury from Vioxx.

Sources say: "The lawyers are great strategists and extremely knowledgeable in the pharmaceutical area."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Theodore Mayer is heavily involved in the defense of Merck in Vioxx litigation. He is also leading the group's representation of Lorillard in tobacco litigation. Sources say: "He is someone whom we heavily rely on to assist in strategy. He's very tactical." The experienced trial lawyer Norman Kleinberg is cochair of the firm’s litigation department. He specializes in defending complex products and other mass tort cases. Charles Cohen is highlighted for his tenacity as a trial lawyer. James Fitzpatrick is known as the group's science and technology expert. Sources say: "He is good with expert witnesses, he’s the person we rely on for that."

THE FIRM This team defends clients in a wide range of product liability and consumer fraud claims. Its industry knowledge includes pharmaceuticals, transportation, construction and consumer goods. This year the group has been involved in a number of high-profile cases, representing Amylin in Byetta litigation and Ford against allegations of engine defects.

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers are extremely knowledgeable, both in their field and with respect to the industry."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Brian Anderson is singled out for his expertise in the automobile and pharmaceutical areas. He is heavily involved in the aforementioned litigation on behalf of Ford.

THE FIRM Orrick is experienced in personal injury defense, toxic tort and major class actions. The group has recently handled a number of toxic tort matters on behalf of Dow Chemical and Union Carbide. Clients particularly value the firm's international capabilities and depth of expertise.

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Stengel is managing director of Orrick’s litigation practice, firmwide. He focuses on representing clients in large, complex class actions in the chemical, tobacco and medical device industries. He is working with toxic torts expert Peter Bicks as national counsel for Union Carbide in asbestos litigation. 

THE FIRM Pepper Hamilton has an established and highly praised pharmaceutical, vaccine and medical device litigation practice. The team continues to serve Medtronic as national counsel and trial counsel for several product lines and is currently acting for GlaxoSmithKline in Avandia litigation.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nina Gussack is widely known as an expert in pharmaceutical product liability defense. She has recently been involved in litigation on behalf of Eli Lilly and GlaxoSmithKline. Sean Fahey specializes in the defense of pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers in multidistrict litigation. Sources say: "He is really sharp-minded and has the complete skill set. It's rare that you find someone so multipurpose."

THE FIRM Reed Smith has a terrific bench of talented product liability lawyers. Clients value the group's depth of knowledge, in particular with regards to the medical device and pharmaceutical industries.

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers really understand our business and what is important to us."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Brown is cochair of the firm's multidisciplinary life sciences health industry group. He represents clients in class actions, multidistrict litigation and mass torts, including acting as national coordinating and trial counsel for C. R. Bard in the Kugel Mesh hernia repair patch litigation. Michael Scott concentrates his practice in the pharmaceutical and medical device area. Sources say: "He is polished, deferential and incredibly well prepared. He isn't easily intimidated and is an excellent communicator." Colleen Davies is head of the litigation department and is described by sources as "a superb strategist." She represents clients as national counsel in state and federal court, including multidistrict litigation and class action proceedings. In addition she helps clients develop systems for consumer safety regulatory compliance. Janet Kwuon has a strong pharmaceutical and medical device litigation practice. Like Davies, she also spends a lot of time counseling clients on nonlitigious matters including internal investigations, best practice guidelines and regulatory compliance.

THE FIRM Winston & Strawn has a diverse range of expertise in product liability and mass torts. The team is involved in numerous high-profile matters, including acting as national trial counsel to Philip Morris for tobacco litigation, trial counsel for Pfizer in hormone therapy litigation and national counsel for LG Electronics in multiple product liability cases.

Sources say: "Winston & Strawn has some really fantastic trial attorneys."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Dan Webb is a widely revered litigator, known for his success in high-profile litigation. Sources say: "He has extensive national standing. He's very academic, experienced and eloquent." He recently led the trial team that defended Philip Morris in an Engle progeny case. Thomas Frederick is chair of Winston & Strawn’s litigation department. He continues to serve as counsel for Philip Morris in its Non-Participating Manufacturer Adjustment dispute. 

THE FIRM This accomplished team represents clients in the pharmaceutical, energy and chemical industries in product liability and toxic tort litigation. It represents AstraZeneca in Seroquel litigation and acts for ExxonMobil, BASF and Union Carbide in toxic tort matters.

Sources say: "This is an impressive group of highly skilled, high-quality lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Stephen Scheve leads Baker Botts' pharmaceutical litigation practice. He recently helped successfully defend Hospira and a Fortune 500 pharmaceutical company in vancomycin and ceftriaxone litigation. Clients appreciate his strategic approach to matters.

THE FIRM This boutique trial law firm is particularly experienced at representing clients in the automotive industry. Its impressive client base includes Ford, Honda, Toyota and Nissan.

Sources say: "A fine firm that is well respected and gets some terrific results."

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Campbell is highly experienced in all aspects of civil litigation and the defense of catastrophic product liability, including toxic tort, medical device and pharmaceutical matters. Sources say: "He is very well respected and has had some extraordinary results. He is an exceptional trial lawyer." William Conroy also focuses his practice on the defense of catastrophic injury cases, particularly in the automotive area.

THE FIRM This team is known for its depth of experience and technical aptitude. Its represents clients from the pharmaceutical, tobacco, electronics and alcohol industries, including Jim Beam Brands, R.J. Reynolds, Samsung Electronics and Purdue Pharma.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mary Yelenick focuses her practice on the defense of complex product liability litigation. She is currently working alongside Phoebe Wilkinson as co-national counsel to Purdue Pharma in the defense of OxyContin civil litigation. Wilkinson's strength lies particularly in the representation of pharmaceutical and medical device companies, where clients describe her as "an excellent behind-the-scenes strategist."

THE FIRM This group has a strong reputation for handling product liability matters for clients in the firearms, alcoholic beverages and chemical industries. The team has recently represented DuPont in its benzene litigation and Motorola in a nationwide consumer fraud class action. 

Sources say: "The lawyers are really dedicated to product liability defense."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Anne Kimball is a good first point of contact.

THE FIRM Faegre & Benson has a diverse product liability practice, though the group is particularly well known for its success in the pharmaceutical and medical device area. Recent achievements include the resolution of major cases for Cargill and Agrium and a favorable mass settlement for Novartis.

Client Service "The whole team is amazingly responsive and very hard-working."

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers really know the industry."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Senior litigator Joseph Price focuses his practice in the defense of complex litigation, mass tort and class actions. He is particularly knowledgeable and experienced in medical device and pharmaceutical matters.

THE FIRM This trial and litigation boutique is highly experienced at defending large corporations in mass tort product liability litigation. It is particularly well known for its representation of pharmaceutical and medical device companies, and is currently serving as trial counsel for Merck in Fosamax litigation. 

Client Service "One of the things that truly distinguishes this team is that it has long been a proponent of alternative fee arrangements. The lawyers are creative and sensitive to our needs, so we are able to negotiate a deal that is really focused on value."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Tarek Ismail is highly respected for his handling of complex and high-stakes product liability litigation. He is particularly experienced in representing pharmaceutical companies, which has included serving as national trial counsel for Merck, Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals and Medtronic. The outstanding Joe Tomaselli specializes in counseling medical drug and device manufacturers. He has been heavily involved in Vioxx litigation.

THE FIRM This practice covers a broad range of product liability litigation, including pharmaceutical and medical device, environmental, toxic tort, telecommunications and tobacco matters. Its large international network of offices provides clients with access to a wide depth and breadth of expertise and experience.

Sources say: "Greenberg Traurig has an excellent depth to its team. If you had a bet-the-company matter you'd feel confident they could handle it."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Lori Cohen is praised for her tremendous record of success in the defense of large pharmaceutical companies. Clients say: "She’s extremely organized, fabulous in court and great in front of a jury." Former Reed Smith attorney Ginger Pigott receives wide acclamation for her litigation practice. She largely focuses on the defense of medical device and aviation product liability cases. Sources say: "She has a controlled, steady, calm manner which makes her very persuasive."

THE FIRM This team group regularly represents pharmaceutical firms, manufacturers and biotech companies in product liability litigation and regulatory matters. The group has recently represented Hyundai in nationwide putative class actions, and continues to act for Airbus SAS in multidistrict litigation proceedings.

Sources say: "The team has provided a great business partnership."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Thad Dameris acts as the managing partner of the Houston practice and is a key contact for the group.

THE FIRM Mayer Brown is adept at handling a broad array of product liability claims and toxic tort litigation. Clients value the group's geographic reach and the range and depth of its experience. Its broad base of expertise includes matters involving asbestos, silica, heavy metals, consumer products, pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

Client Service "There is a great culture within the team: responsive, proactive and flexible on billing rates."

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers are bright, strategic and always well prepared."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The seasoned litigator Herbert Zarov is praised for his leadership and strategic thinking. He is well known for his representation of Dow Chemical, particularly in climate change litigation.

THE FIRM McGuireWoods continues to successfully defend a variety of product liability and mass torts cases throughout the USA. Sources particularly highlight the group's wide geographical breadth and client-focused approach as strengths. Current clients include Ford, CSX and Smithfield Foods.

Sources say: "The lawyers are trial-savvy and have excellent management and organizational skills."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Steven Williams is chair of the firm’s toxic tort and environmental practice. His practice involves a wide spectrum of complex civil litigation matters, including class actions and consolidated cases in federal and state courts. Lead paint litigation has taken up a significant part of his recent practice.

THE FIRM This group has a broad client base that includes major pharmaceutical and medical device companies, energy companies and national asbestos litigants. It is particularly highlighted for its technical skill and depth of experience.

KEY INDIVIDUALS The experienced litigator John Lavelle focuses on the defense of medical device and pharmaceutical product liability claims. He has successfully represented Medtronic in a number of cases in the past year, and is described by sources as "thorough, responsive and to the point. He has a very deep understanding of products law."

THE FIRM This practice has a diverse range of experience, with particular strengths in the pharmaceutical and automotive areas. It is currently representing Pfizer in the high-profile Prempro litigation. Other notable clients include Ford, C. R. Bard and Whirlpool.

Sources say: "This is a terrific and experienced group of product liability lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Dukes is widely respected by peers and clients. He led the team's involvement in the Prempro matter, and is praised for his strategic approach. "There is no one better when it comes to settlement strategy. He is able to see the whole chessboard," say sources. Stephen Morrison is highly regarded for his advocacy skills. He is experienced in litigation involving automotive, chemical and technology products.

THE FIRM Perkins Coie advises and defends local, national and international clients in a range of product liability litigation. The team has a reputation for handling matters related to the aviation industry, and has a long relationship with Boeing. Other recent clients include Georgia-Pacific, Honeywell, Genie, Nintendo and Intel.

KEY INDIVIDUALS John Dillow is head of the product liability practice. He is particularly well known for his toxic torts practice, and for his work on behalf of the aviation industry. Sources say: "He's knowledgeable, persuasive and has a cool, calm demeanor."

THE FIRM This group serves as local, regional and national trial counsel for clients of all sizes in product liability litigation. However, it is particularly well known for its success defending pharmaceutical companies.

Sources say: "The lawyers all do an outstanding job."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Tucker specializes in the defense of pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers of consumer products. Sources say: "He is a terrific trial lawyer. He has the ability to tell a very good story." Charles Socha has a broad product liability practice that includes medical device and drug liability cases, toxic torts and multidistrict litigation. He is particularly praised for his technical knowledge of scientific and medical issues.

THE FIRM This group continues to expand its profile, working on behalf of clients in the tobacco, pharmaceutical and automobile industries. It is heavily involved in genetically modified rice litigation, and recently defended Mazda in a personal injury case in Oklahoma.

Sources say: "The lawyers work extremely hard and are very good at collaborating with other firms."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Will Goodman is experienced in defending pharmaceutical and chemical companies in complex commercial and personal injury litigations. Sources say: "He is a terrific trial attorney, with a great courtroom presence. He commands the courtroom and connects with the jury."