Gaming & Licensing: Nevada

THE FIRM This firm remains a leader in the field, offering a sizable team and showcasing an impressive list of clients. This list includes Icahn Enterprises, which the team recently advised on issues such as amendments to the order of registration, gaming license applications and regulatory issues. Sources appreciate the attorneys' excellent knowledge of the inner workings of Nevada's gaming regulations.

Sources say: "The preeminent gaming firm in Nevada due to its depth of knowledge, relationships and sophistication."

KEY INDIVIDUALS As a former member of the Nevada Gaming Commission, Frank Schreck provides excellent insight into regulatory matters. "He gets to the heart of a problem and creatively sources alternative strategies to resolve them better than anyone else in town," note sources. The talented David Arrajj is an experienced gaming regulatory practitioner. "He provides timely guidance on deal structures and their alternatives," say interviewees.

THE FIRM This respected firm is at the top of its game, a fact demonstrated by its regularly being asked to provide counsel to foreign governments seeking to create gaming legislation. Recently, the 16-lawyer team has done a large amount of work relating to mobile gaming. Clients include Ableco Finance, First Republic Bank and Tropicana Las Vegas Hotel & Casino.

Sources say: "The group's strongest qualities are its expertise and its service ethic."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The legendary Robert Faiss has earned "tremendous respect among regulators and fellow practitioners" over his many years of practice. He is still very active in the market, and has recently been acting as counsel for MGM Resorts International regarding all gaming regulatory matters. Mark Clayton is recognized for his varied practice, which emphasizes finance, manufacturers of gaming equipment, and legislation and regulation. "He gives real insight into the workings of government agencies and also understands how big business operates," say sources. Dan Reaser is praised for "understanding gaming back to front." He acted for Deutsche Bank and JPMorgan in structuring and securing gaming licenses. Ellen Whittemore "is attuned to what gaming businesses need and provides very commercial advice," according to sources. 

THE FIRM This firm has a presence across the Southwest, with footholds in Arizona, New Mexico, California and of course Nevada. Its Reno and Las Vegas offices have experience of working for a range of clients, including casino operators, suppliers, and state and local governments. Recently, the team has been doing a significant amount of transactional work.  

KEY INDIVIDUALS Anthony Cabot leads the team and continues to receive glowing praise for his knowledge of internet gaming law. The "knowledgeable and experienced" Gregory Giordano has been very visible of late. He focuses on regulatory matters. Paul Bible's practice goes from strength to strength. He covers all areas of gaming law, but continues to grow his due diligence practice for entities wishing to enter the US gaming market. Sean McGuinness is a seasoned attorney who in recent times has been involved in an increasing number of gaming bankruptcy representations. Michael Alonso's gaming and liquor licensing practice remains busy following his move from Jones Vargas. Sources comment on his consistently solid work product.

THE FIRM The team here is experienced in representing gaming operators and technology developers, and works effectively alongside the firm's highly regarded bankruptcy practice. Its impressive list of clients includes Goldman Sachs, Credit Suisse and Riviera Hotel.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jeffrey Silver covers the whole spectrum of gaming, licensing and regulatory law. Clients appreciate his well-rounded advice, which stems from his background as a board member for the regulatory authorities and in-house counsel at casinos. 

THE FIRM The gaming team at Jones Vargas is well reputed for its expertise in regulatory issues, and its members are often seen before the Gaming Control Board and the Nevada Gaming Commission. The firm is appreciated for its complete service and its cross-practice approach to dealing with clients' problems.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jodi Goodheart is a key contact.

THE FIRM The gaming group at this old-line firm has been dealing with an increasing number of financial restructurings of resorts over the past year. It remains prominent for administrative and regulatory work, representing clients before gaming boards and councils.  

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Alvin Hicks has vast experience of working with gaming companies on financing matters.