Corporate/M&A: Alaska

THE FIRM This firm's commercial practice has deep roots in Alaska and acts on a range of matters, including contracts, deeds of trusts and loan and security agreements. It has particular expertise in advising financial institutions on Alaskan law and regulation.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Kathryn Black advises on a wide range of business law matters, including the formation of business organizations and oil and gas transactions. Sources say: "She is an outstanding attorney – it is always a delight to see her on the other side of a transaction."

THE FIRM This well-respected bankruptcy boutique is noted for its skill across a range of matters as counsel to both debtors and creditors. It also advises on general business and commercial transactions, including trustee work.

Sources say: "This continues to be the biggest practice for debtors who are going to bankruptcy or need restructuring for loans. No one does it better."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "knowledgeable and insightful" Cabot Christianson is "an excellent negotiator" who is widely viewed as a go-to practitioner for bankruptcy files. He also advises on trustee work and M&A transactions.

THE FIRM This well-established team offers comprehensive commercial counsel to clients throughout the northwestern US. It has a strong presence in the healthcare sector, acting for clients such as the Alaska Federal Healthcare Network and BLU-MED Response Systems. Additionally, the firm recently acted for Alaska Structures on the negotiation of both domestic and international commercial contracts.

Sources say: "They have excellent lawyers and great resources."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Joseph Reece is praised for skillfully combining his understanding of the law with commercial and business acumen. His clients include PolyEarth Construction International, Valley Hospital Association and Chugach Alaska.

Jon Dawson acts as general counsel to companies throughout the northwestern US. Sources say: "He is professional and thorough. He gets back to us with high priority – he is great to work with." He represents Chugach Electric, Alaska's largest utility, in commercial and intellectual property matters.

Barbara Simpson Kraft is noted for her transactional expertise. She represents clients in a range of industries, including the Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation, Norton Sound Health Corporation and Central Bering Sea Fishermen's Association.

THE FIRM This six-strong group has broad experience in corporate and business matters, frequently advising on transactions involving multiple jurisdictions. Recent highlights include advising Matanuska Telephone Association on the contractual, real estate, ERISA, labor and employment, environmental and regulatory implications of its purchase of telecommunications assets from the City of Ketchikan. Other notable clients include the Cook Inlet Region and U.S. Bank.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Rosston is "a top-tier, first-class lawyer" who handles general corporate and commercial transactional work. He has represented Alaska Native corporation Doyon in a number of corporate transactions, and has also provided the company with general legal counsel.

Spencer Sneed is singled out for his experience in the areas of energy and bankruptcy litigation. He is well known for his long-term representation of ConocoPhillips Alaska.

The "very versatile" Michael Mills is a "top-notch bankruptcy lawyer" who also acts on mergers and corporate restructurings. He recently represented Washington-based Janicki Industries in the $10 million financing of a new factory in Utah.

THE FIRM Durrell Law Group enters its 15th year and has a strong reputation for the organization of business entities as well as business purchases and sales. The firm's medical practice also continues to experience notable growth. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Firm founder Brian Durrell is an "excellent attorney" who brings experience as a certified public accountant to his practice.