Banking & Finance: Nationwide

THE FIRM This Boston-based firm utilizes a nationwide network of offices in San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York, where it has diversified its practice area over the past few years to cater to a greater variety of nonbank lenders, equity sponsors and borrowers. Bingham represents the successful business development company Ares Capital in senior and first-lien as well as mezzanine and second-lien credit facilities. On the traditional banking side clients include Bank of America, JPMorgan and Wells Fargo.

Client Service "Unparalleled responsiveness, deep expertise and tremendous client service."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Representing both lenders and borrowers, New York-based Thomas Mellor focuses on leveraged, acquisition, investment grade and project financings. Clients describe him as "knowledgeable, responsive, courteous and able to handle negotiations with the utmost professionalism." Operating between Boston and New York, Edwin Smith is invariably praised by his peers, who describe him as "one of the best commercial lawyers in America" and "an intellectual giant of the law." He is considered an expert on the UCC, having participated in the drafting of several recent revisions.

THE FIRM This New York firm is a powerhouse in high-yield debt work and leveraged loan transactions with a very deep bench of highly experienced partners. The firm's clients include Banc of America Securities, JPMorgan and UBS Securities. Cahill represented Citibank, Deutsche Bank Securities and HSBC Securities as joint book runners and initial lenders in the GBP5.5 billion bridge credit facility to partially finance Kraft’s acquisition of Cadbury.

Commercial Awareness "What we really appreciate is that these lawyers will give their opinions on matters rather than just listing endless precedents. Their combined legal and market knowledge is outstanding."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "highly intelligent and commercially minded" James Clark advises on M&A, bank financings and debt restructurings. He represented Bank of America Securities, Deutsche Bank Securities and Morgan Stanley Senior Funding in a $3 billion senior secured term loan facility for CIT Group. The "forward-thinking" William Hartnett has experience in capital market and lending transactions, leveraged finance and securities offerings. He led representation of the financial sources in Hellman & Friedman's acquisition of Associated Materials. Co-administrative partner Jonathan Schaffzin represents investment and commercial banks, borrowers and issuers and private equity firms and their portfolio companies in leveraged, mezzanine and equity financings. He assisted the acquisition of Tomkins, one of the largest LBOs completed in 2010, valued at $5 billion. Daniel Zubkoff has impressed his clients by being "incredibly user-friendly and expert in leading his brilliant team." He concentrates on capital markets and transactions involving bank financings, debt and equity securities offerings and out-of-court debt restructurings. Adam Dworkin is mainly focused on leveraged finance and represents arrangers in bank financings and high-yield offerings. Ann Makich is described by clients as "commercial, reasonable and creative when needed." She represents investment and commercial banks, underwriters and initial purchasers in high-yield and equity offerings and secured bank loans.

THE FIRM With offices in New York and Washington, DC, the finance group draws upon the strengths of the corporate and bankruptcy practices and notable presence in the Latin American market to advise its borrower and private equity clients, such as TPG. The group has recently broadened its practice scope beyond sponsor representation to include corporates and strategics, and has brought in additional finance partners from its overseas offices. Cleary is currently representing BHP Billiton in financing its $40 billion all-cash offer to acquire Potash Corporation through a $45 billion syndicated loan facility, the largest global M&A deal announced in the first three quarters of 2010.

Client Service "Responsiveness is an important thing for us. If we need a team on the ground tomorrow morning, then Cleary delivers. They are extraordinarily responsive."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Laurent Alpert is focused on M&A, LBOs and cross-border transactions, and his experience extends to bridge financings and permanent financings of acquisition transactions. He is leading representation of BHP Billiton in the deal referred to above. Margaret Peponis concentrates her practice on acquisition and distressed financing and has additional experience in M&A, private equity and securities offerings. She recently acted as counsel to TPG on financing aspects of its $1.4 billion purchase of Vertafore.

THE FIRM Clifford Chance has an impressive reputation for its equipment finance and leasing practice in New York, which attracts important clients such as International Lease Finance, GECAS and Ansett Worldwide Aviation Services. The team represented GECAS in financing American Airlines via $280 million in cash under a loan facility as well as $1.6 billion in sale and leaseback financing commitments for Boeing 737s previously ordered by American. The firm's banking and finance team advises on various financial products, including but not limited to syndicated lending, acquisition finance and project finance.

Commercial Awareness "Very practical, thorough and commercially focused. They do a good job combining legal advice with business realities and get straight to the point."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "awesome" John Howitt focuses his practice on aircraft finance matters such as leveraged lease transactions, operating leases, portfolio acquisitions and sales, and sale and leasebacks. He advised International Lease Finance regarding Rule 144A issuance of $3.9 billion of notes secured by aircraft and subsequent payoff. Clients consider Zarrar Sehgal to be "very thorough" and "an excellent resource." He represents a variety of clients through asset finance transactions including portfolio securitizations, enhanced equipment trust certificate transactions and credit enhancements. Geoffrey White is described as "a very smart guy, quite amazing." He represented Brazilian Development Bank in a number of aircraft financing transactions for companies such as British Airways, Japan Airlines and Air Europa. Gary Brooks continues to represent a variety of lenders in high-yield debt and other securities offerings, leveraged lending and debt restructurings.

THE FIRM This New York firm is traditionally known for representing big banks in the full gamut of lending transactions, but has seen an increase in borrower-based work during the economic downturn. The team advises clients such as JPMorgan Chase, Credit Suisse and Goldman Sachs on lending activities including asset-based financings, leveraged spin-offs and innovative structuring. Cravath represented JPMorgan and Citi in connection with $3.5 billion credit facilities provided to Hewlett-Packard.

Commercial Awareness "For time-sensitive matters requiring creative structuring, we will always choose Cravath."

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Cooper is praised for being "calm, creative and nonconfrontational while protecting his clients' interests and getting the job done." Among other things, he advises banking clients on financing M&A, recapitalizations and spin-offs and working capital financings. Robbins Kiessling advises on M&A, syndicated bank financings, leveraged finance, workouts and restructurings and additionally represents lenders in financings for professional sports franchises. Clients deem him "a formidably talented financing partner with great vigor and intensity." James Vardell is primarily focused on syndicated bank financings, including acquisition financings, LBOs, recapitalizations and debtor-in-possession financings, and caters to both lender and borrower clients. He recently represented JPMorgan in connection with $800 million credit facilities provided to Limited Brands. Michael Goldman leads the firm's banking group and concentrates his practice on complex syndicated loan transactions, acquisition and leveraged finance, asset-based lending and securities offerings both domestically and internationally. He recently represented Credit Suisse, HSBC and ANZ in providing a $5 billion bridge loan commitment to Reynolds Group Holdings to finance its acquisition of Pactiv. Deputy presiding partner at Cravath, Allen Parker is described by clients as "an incredibly valuable and reliable partner with a legendary ability to analyze and provide real-time legal feedback shaped by business realities." His experience includes syndicated loan transactions, acquisition financings and leveraged recapitalizations as well as a broad range of corporate advisory matters. George Zobitz is well regarded by peers for his banking practice but has been heavily involved in M&A activity of late. As the market conditions have changed he has refocused his practice on financing matters.

THE FIRM Based in New York with further offices in Washington, DC and Menlo Park, California, this credit group represents financial institutions and borrowers in corporate finance transactions such as leveraged and investment grade acquisition finance, project finance and bankruptcy. Davis Polk has been involved in several highly significant 'credit crisis' financing transactions over the past year, such as advising the US Treasury with regard to over $180 billion of loans and other financings for AIG.

Sources say: "A very strong firm with breadth and quality. It has a terrific bench of banking partners."

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Florack is principally involved in matters concerning structured finance, high-yield debt offerings and financings for leveraged acquisitions. He was involved in advising Citibank as issuer of an $8 billion letter of credit in connection with a US Federal Housing Administration program. The "fantastic" Bradley Smith has broad finance experience and specializes in investment grade handling. He represented Citibank as joint lead arranger and administrative agent on an $11.1 billion exit financing and $8.5 billion nongovernmental DIP. Lawrence Wieman is focused predominantly on the borrower side of transactions. He recently represented Limited Brands in connection with a $926 million amend-and-extend amendment of its $1 billion revolving credit facility. Sartaj Gill has assisted several messy and prolonged restructuring deals and has also been involved with leveraged financings for Credit Suisse. He recently advised MSCI on its $1.37 billion secured credit facility to finance the acquisition of RiskMetrics Group.

THE FIRM With established offices in New York and Washington, DC, this boutique leveraged finance practice focuses on borrower-side work for private equity groups such as Clayton, Dubilier & Rice. The team's experience includes syndicated bank loans, high-yield debt offerings, second-lien financings and mezzanine capital investments. Recent work highlights include advising Reynolds Group Holdings on the issuance of $1.5 billion of senior secured notes and $1.5 billion of senior notes and borrowings of incremental loans in excess of $2 billion, for its acquisition of Pactiv.

Commercial Awareness “Tireless workers and good negotiators. They did a superb job keeping all the balls in the air on a very complex financing.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chair of the leveraged finance group, David Brittenham is praised by one client for being "always one step ahead and ever mindful of the financial market and the latest deals." His practice primarily concerns leveraged and acquisition financings and he recently represented CDR in its acquisition of a 42.5% stake in Univar. Clients comment that William Beekman is "responsive, efficient and easy to work with." He has a broad range of finance experience including leveraged lending, structured financings, mezzanine investments and equipment financings. Paul Brusiloff has impressed clients with his "perfect combination of legal and business understanding." His practice involves complex debt and equity financings and refinancing, recapitalization and restructuring transactions. Pierre Maugüé is deemed "a pleasure to work with" by clients due to "efficiently completing a complex and troublesome transaction on a very tight timescale." He recently represented Rank Group in the financing related to its $980 million acquisition of UCI International.

THE FIRM Based in New York and Washington, DC, this firm has a broad-based practice representing blue-chip corporations, financial institutions and private equity funds on a variety of transactions, including M&A, recapitalization, mezzanine and leveraged fund financings. The group represented Virgin Media in refinancing its senior credit facility, comprising a GBP1.67 billion term loan used to repay its previous facility in full as well as a GBP250 million aggregate principal amount revolving credit facility. Key clients include Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, JPMorgan and KKR.

Commercial Awareness "Proactive and very knowledgeable about recent precedents and market norms. Their ability to handle cross-continent work has been a great bonus to us."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chair of the leveraged finance department, William Reindel is considered "humble, but excellent" by peers. He represents clients such as Goldman Sachs, Merrill Lynch and Apollo Investment on a broad range of leveraged financing transactions and recently counseled Novelis in connection with its $2.3 billion senior secured credit facilities. Emil Buchman is commended by clients for being "very smart, creative, thoughtful, a strong negotiator and an expert on documentation and evolving market standards." The bulk of his experience relates to the financings of M&A, LBOs, recapitalizations and restructurings.

THE FIRM This firm has a reputation for equipment financing and leasing work carried out from its New York office. The group's recent experience has included advising on the leasing and financing of aircraft, export-import financings and complex pre-delivery payment financings for clients such as Jackson Square Aviation, AWAS Aviation and Apollo Aviation.

Sources say: "We are very pleased with Fulbright's work, especially its responsiveness and thoroughness."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of the equipment finance group, James Tussing is said to have "a magic touch" by clients, and to be "a leader in the field" by peers. His practice includes debt and lease financings, joint ventures, M&A, workouts, reorganizations and litigation related to equipment financing. "Extremely competent, thoughtful and prescient," Marc Latman has experience beyond his years and advises clients such as International Lease Finance, US Ex-Im Bank and Apollo Aviation on various equipment finance matters.

THE FIRM Split between New York and Los Angeles, this team has increased its lender-side engagements over the past year and boasts representation of a wide range of clients from many different industries in leveraged finance transactions. Clients include Goldman Sachs, UBS Investment Bank and Ormet. 

Commercial Awareness "These partners add phenomenal value beyond their legal skills. They understand our objectives, prioritize issues and offer creative solutions."

Client Service "These team members feel like business partners, managing resources very efficiently and never over-lawyering matters."

KEY INDIVIDUALS New York-based Janet Vance has experience in restructurings, fund financings, working capital facilities and acquisition financings. She receives special praise from clients for her efficiency in handling matters: "She is exceptional in having the business acumen to match her legal competence, putting together the best possible team for the lowest cost. Truly outstanding." Joerg Esdorn cochairs the global finance group from New York and has a background in restructuring. He is now focusing on acquisition finance, high-yield and mezzanine transactions and recently represented Charter Communications in a $4.4 billion term loan and revolving credit facility. Working out of the Los Angeles office, Linda Curtis focuses on acquisition financings, secured and unsecured senior and mezzanine financings and preferred stock financings. Peers say she is "outstanding - always a pleasure to work with and gets straight to the point."

THE FIRM The New York-based banking and finance lawyers at this international firm are primarily focused in public finance and asset finance transactions, with preeminence in both aviation and shipping finance. Clients include Barclays, Export Development Canada, GE Capital Aviation Services and Finnvera, who they represented in Royal Caribbean Cruise's post-delivery financing of the world's two largest cruise ships, 'Oasis of the Seas' and 'Allure of the Seas'.

Sources say: "This firm provides excellent legal advice and draws upon its vast resources around the country at a very reasonable price, given its size and stature."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nancy Hengen has extensive experience in commercial vessel finance and Jones Act issues, representing major oil companies, shipping companies and the financial institutions that finance them. She is considered "the preeminent shipping lawyer, the one person to consult on any tricky shipping issues." John Pritchard is unanimously considered "an academic dean of the aircraft finance world and matters concerning the Cape Town Convention." His asset-based finance practice is concentrated on representing lessors, lessees, lenders, borrowers and government guarantors in financings, securitizations and workouts. A former Dewey & LeBoeuf partner, Fred Bass joined the team in September to offer his asset-based financing experience, which includes the financing and leasing of aircraft, renewable energy facilities and satellites. He continues to represent GECAS on a variety of aircraft finance matters.

THE FIRM With established offices in Georgia, Ohio, Texas and New York and a matching network of reputable restructuring teams, the banking and finance services offered by this international firm are extensive. Over the past five years the size of the New York office has doubled, considerably increasing the group's structured and aviation finance capabilities. Jones Day's clients include Bank of America, Jefferies & Company and JohnsonDiversey, which it represented in selling approximately 46% of outstanding common stock to an affiliate of Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, with collateral stretching across 25 jurisdictions.

Client Service "The entire team gives the impression that we are its only client. They never over-lawyer things but clearly have the depth to handle any issues."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Brett Barragate co-leads the firm's banking and finance practice and splits his time between lender-side syndicated loans, private equity and hedge fund distressed financings and borrower-side leveraged financings. Clients say: "He is responsive, knowledgeable and gives confidence in fair representation of clients. He is always available." Chip Bensinger has experience of a broad range of secured and unsecured lending transactions, particularly acquisition financings, cross-border credit facilities and professional sport franchise financings. He recently represented The Gavilon Group regarding amendments to a $2 billion asset-backed lending revolving credit facility. James Salerno is described by clients as "business-oriented, proactive, responsive and thorough - but always able to keep perspective." He has represented Standard Bank in a number of cross-border energy-related financial transactions, and AREVA in connection with a $2 billion loan guarantee from the US Department of Energy to finance a uranium enrichment plant.

THE FIRM Highly active in representing private equity sponsors and corporate issuers in the borrower segment, Kirkland has strong finance and bankruptcy practices in Chicago and an ever-growing presence in New York. The strength of Kirkland's restructuring practice has enabled it to advise on some impressive LBOs, with continued aggression in lateral hiring set to strengthen its market presence. Key clients include Charter Communications, Warburg Pincus and Madison Dearborn Partners. Kirkland represented CVC Capital Partners and its portfolio company, Univar, on its sale of a minority interest to Clayton, Dubilier & Rice. The transaction involved an amended and restated $1 billion term loan credit agreement, $1.1 billion asset-based lending credit agreement and $600 million senior subordinated notes indenture.

Sources say: "A huge force in finance that represents the country's key sponsor clients; it is tough, aggressive and making a huge impact on the market."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jay Ptashek focuses his practice on acquisition finance and debt restructuring. He represents sponsors on syndicated senior debt and bridge loan financings. He recently represented 3G Capital in taking Burger King private for $4 billion with a debt financing portion worth $2.8 billion. Joshua Korff represents clients in finance and capital markets transactions with particular emphasis on IPOs, high-yield transactions and private equity issues. He represented Bain Capital in the $1.63 billion, multijurisdictional purchase of Dow Chemical’s Styron division.

THE FIRM Latham has highly respected offices in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, giving the firm an impressive national and global footprint. Representing the world's largest banks, as well as borrowers, sponsors, funds and governments, the firm has broad expertise including acquisition and recapitalization financings, first and second-lien secured loan agreements, project financings and structured financings. A recent work highlight was representing US Ex-Im Bank in complex $14 billion export credit agency and commercial loan facilities for Papua New Guinea Liquefied Natural Gas Global.

Sources say: "They turn over every rock and ensure that both we and our clients are protected. We have found a great level of comfort with both the firm and individuals."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Global banking chair Michèle Penzer aids an impressive list of lenders and borrowers in leveraged finance transactions. She recently represented JPMorgan Securities in a $310 million term loan and revolving credit facility for Integra Telecom Holdings. The "very seasoned and experienced" Christopher Plaut represents lenders such as UBS, Credit Suisse and Barclays in acquisition financings, asset-based facilities and other leveraged finance transactions. He assisted Bank of America with a $2 billion term loan and revolving credit facilities for Peabody Energy. Described by clients as "exceptional," Daniel Seale represents financial institutions with a focus on acquisition financings. He advised Citigroup Global Capital Markets on a $4.15 billion credit agreement amendment to provide a new revolving credit facility and multiple new term tranches for NRG Energy. Based in Los Angeles, John Mendez is said to offer "high-quality technical skills and excellent commercial and lateral thinking" as well as the ability to "create structures that get the job done." His clients include Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs and UBS. Global cochair of the banking group and based in Chicago, David Crumbaugh is considered "a key individual at Latham with great exposure and prevalence in the market." He has a rich legal background with experience that includes cross-border transactions and first-lien/second-lien and senior debt/high-yield transactions.

THE FIRM This firm has a wide network with notable outposts in Charlotte, Chicago and Houston. Mayer's size affords expertise in all areas of finance, ranging from lender and borrower representations in its bank lending practice to particular expertise in energy and gaming finance. A recent example of this work is representing Bank of America, as administrative agent and lead arranger, with respect to the amendment and extension of the $4.73 billion senior secured credit facility for MGM Mirage Resorts International. Clients otherwise include Barclays Bank, Credit Suisse and Wells Fargo/Wachovia.

Client Service "The teams are all very smart, hard-working, skilled, well seasoned and easy to get along with. They are efficient, creative, meet deadlines and do not overstaff. A superb firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Based in Chicago, Robert Baptista is said to be "tremendous - extremely knowledgeable and easy to get along with." He represents both lenders and borrowers in LBOs, tender offer financings, multijurisdictional transactions and various other arrangements.

THE FIRM Recognized as one of the largest lateral moves in the leveraged finance market, the arrival of five partners from Latham & Watkins in August 2010 has dramatically increased the finance capabilities of the New York office. Milbank has traditional strengths in project and energy finance on the West Coast and in equipment finance and leasing work on the East Coast. The firm represented JPMorgan Chase as administrative agent for a $6.2 billion syndicated revolving credit facility for Verizon.

Client Service "Extremely impressive - we originally chose them for particular individuals but discovered that their skills ran firmwide."

KEY INDIVIDUALS New arrival Marc Hanrahan leads the global leveraged finance group from New York and has an impressive reputation among key financial institutions. He counsels on LBOs, tender offers and other go private transactions for clients such as Barclays Bank, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs Credit Partners, HSBC and RBS. Clients say he is "very thoughtful, user-friendly and always protecting our business." Jonathan Green represented the lead arrangers in connection with a $240 million financing for Terra-Gen Finance and is considered "outstanding - for acquisitions and project financing we have found him to be one of the best lawyers in the market." Drew Fine chairs Milbank's finance groups and is considered by clients to be "extremely knowledgeable, pragmatic and incredibly responsive." His finance practice is particularly focused on transactions involving aircraft, rolling stock and vessels. Elliot Gewirtz chairs the firm's global transportation finance department and is described by his peers as "a cutting-edge leader" in the aviation securitization and lease financing area. Helfried Schwarz counts financial institutions, airlines and leasing companies among his clients and has recently provided counsel on leveraged lease transactions, aircraft portfolio securitizations and aircraft acquisitions and dispositions. Elihu Robertson leads the firm's transportation and space finance group. His experience lies in enhanced equipment trust certificate transactions, acquisition financings, domestic and cross-border leases, and aircraft engine and flight simulator financings.

Since publication, Elliot Gewirtz has left this practice.

THE FIRM This New York firm is best recognized for its equipment finance and leasing practice, with extensive experience in negotiating and documenting loans to borrowers in all industrial sectors, from aircraft, satellites, manufacturing, oil refining, commodity and specialty chemicals, to cutting-edge technology and business processes.

Sources say: "A deep bench with very active partners in the equipment finance area. They are smart and good to work with."

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Bowers is co-leader of the firm's structured finance group. He has experience in ABS transactions involving aircraft, engines, ships and railroad rolling stock and represents underwriters, placement agents, issuers, lenders and liquidity providers. Payson Coleman leads the equipment finance practice and represents airlines, lessors and manufacturers in leasings, financings, acquisitions and restructurings. Michael Schumaecker advises on complex cross-border asset-based financings, trade finance and infrastructure projects. He represents airlines in aircraft sales and acquisitions, operating and finance leases and pre-delivery payment financings and has lately advised on a number of export credit agency financings.

THE FIRM This firm has noteworthy offices in Boston and New York, and principally advises on acquisition finance for sophisticated global private equity firms, such as Bain Capital, Blackstone, TPG Capital, Thomas H Lee Partners and more recently BC Partners and Hellman & Friedman. The team is currently advising TPG Capital in structuring and obtaining $1.85 billion of aggregate financing for the acquisition of J.Crew.

Sources say: "The firm consistently provides reliable and practical advice and is very solid in the private equity space."

KEY INDIVIDUALS New York-based Jay Kim focuses on complex leveraged financings for private equity groups as well as for investment banks, lenders and other debt investors. He advised Dunkin' Brands in structuring and obtaining $1.97 billion of aggregate financing to refinance its 'whole business securitization' and fund a stockholder dividend. Thomas Draper cochairs the firm's finance group from Boston, where he represents borrowers in leveraged acquisitions and issuers in high-yield and investment grade bond issuances. Clients report that "his strength is in providing big-picture legal advice and creative solutions to problems."

THE FIRM This New York-based firm has a particularly versatile practice and represents lenders, borrowers and financial advisers across all areas of bank finance, including acquisition financings, leveraged lending, workouts, exit financings, Islamic finance, structured financings and investment grade financings. Clients include Bank of America, Royal Bank of Canada and Citi. The team recently advised BNP Paribas Securities, Citigroup Global Markets, Banc of America Securities and Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ as joint lead arrangers and joint book managers of a $5 billion, 364-day credit facility for Toyota Motor Credit and some of its affiliates.

Client Service "This firm offers a high level of service and is very focused on the client."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of the finance group, Maura O'Sullivan focuses her practice on acquisition financings, leverage lending, restructurings and asset-based finance. She recently represented Boston Scientific as borrower of a $3 billion multicurrency financing arranged by Banc of America Securities and JPMorgan Securities. Ronald Bayer specializes in secured lending, leveraged acquisition financing and leasing. He represents banks and other financial institutions in secured and unsecured lending transactions, structured financings, workouts and bankruptcies. William Hirschberg has vast experience in all areas of bank financing and keeps a busy practice representing an impressive array of borrowers, credit enhancers, senior lenders, subordinated lenders and sponsors. He has a deep understanding of transactions involving complex cross-border and multijurisdictional issues. Monica Holland represents senior lenders and borrowers for various LBO financings, first and second-lien financings, workouts, debt restructurings and intercreditor issues. Clients praise her intelligence, work ethic and negotiating skills. Steven Sherman divides his time between the San Francisco and New York offices and advises on issues arising from private debt and equity placements, leveraged acquisition financings and tax-advantaged structured financings, among other things. He represented Citicorp as administrative agent in a complex restructuring of Fairmont Raffles Holdings International's secured credit facilities.

THE FIRM Sidley Austin has respected offices in Chicago and Los Angeles, from which it readily competes with New York-based firms and draws strength from its complementary practices. The firm advises lenders and borrowers on matters involving workouts and restructurings, leveraged acquisitions, recapitalizations, debtor-in-possession financings and aircraft finance. Key clients include Bank of America, BNP Paribas, Citi, GE Capital and JPMorgan Chase. 

Sources say: "Well-resourced teams doing fantastic work; it has a great national footprint."

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Clark cochairs the global syndicated and leveraged finance group from Chicago. He recently represented US Bank, as administrative agent, in a $400 million credit facility to United Launch Alliance. New York-based Rory Kelleher is described as "an excellent lawyer - seasoned, smart and pushing a meaningful practice." He advises on aircraft finance, equipment leasing and structured finance, and represents leasing companies and aircraft, engine and rail transport manufacturers both domestically and internationally.

THE FIRM This highly respected New York firm continues to impress by way of both its lender and borrower representation, advising financial and investment firms as well as private equity investors, strategic investors and sovereign wealth funds. The team represented JPMorgan Securities and Barclays Capital as representatives of the initial purchasers of $800 million of 9.875% senior notes due 2018, the proceeds of which were used to finance a portion of the acquisition of Burger King by 3G Capital. Simpson Thacher also represented JPMorgan Chase, as administrative agent, in connection with a new $2 billion senior credit facility for Burger King. Other clients include The Blackstone Group, KKR, Silver Lake, Warburg Pincus and Deutsche Bank.

Sources say: "A historical power in finance; it has great lawyers, great experience and a wonderful roster of clients."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Of Francis Huck, peers say: "His combined style, culture and business acumen are unparalleled" and that he is "easy to deal with and a creative legend." He led representation of JPMorgan as lender and financial adviser to Air Products in its offer to acquire Airgas, a transaction worth approximately $7 billion. Clients say that James Cross "thinks outside the box, embraces challenges of the market and is very creative." He represents financial institutions and private equity firms with a focus on debt commitments and credit facilities for leveraged acquisitions. James Knight shows clients "an astonishing level of involvement for a partner" and is described as "wonderfully creative." His practice involves leveraged financings for both lenders and borrowers. He recently led representation of The Blackstone Group in connection with a $1.07 billion credit agreement. The "highly academic" James Buresh primarily advises on issues relating to syndicated lending and high-yield financing. He recently represented JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank as lead arrangers and lenders in connection with $4.15 billion of senior secured credit facilities to finance the acquisition and refinance existing debt of Universal Health Services and Psychiatric Solutions. Marissa Wesely is described by sources as "sharp and experienced." She principally advises equity sponsors and corporate borrowers on leveraged acquisition finance, recapitalization and debt restructuring transactions. Alden Millard represents LBO sponsors and their portfolio companies in a variety of bank financings. His clients include The Blackstone Group, JPMorgan Chase and Thomas H Lee Partners.

Since publication, James Buresh has retired from this practice.

THE FIRM This global firm has great strength in its Chicago, Los Angeles and New York offices. Traditionally known for its representation of strategic borrowers and private equity groups, Skadden is gaining recognition for substantial lender-side work in leveraged finance transactions. The banking group provides counsel on acquisition financings, first and second-lien loan facilities, recapitalizations, asset-backed financings and investment grade financings. Clients include Bank of America, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs and Coca-Cola.

Commercial Awareness "These lawyers have terrific communication skills and are able to explain complex issues in plain English."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sal Guerrera is described as "extremely thorough and completely dedicated to delivering a good product." He has a broad practice advising both financial institutions and borrowers and issuers on, among other things, M&A financings, first and second-lien financings, and bridge and mezzanine financings. His clients include Credit Suisse, BNP Paribas and AEP Industries. Sarah Ward co-leads the firm's banking group from New York and focuses her practice on leveraged finance transactions. She assisted HCP in its $6.1 billion acquisition of the real estate assets of HCR ManorCare Services, in what was the largest ever US lease transaction, the largest ever follow-on offering by a REIT and the largest real estate deal of 2010. Clients say she is "a wonderful lawyer with terrific communication skills - she is able to explain very complex issues in plain English." Robert Copen represents a variety of clients in connection with syndicated loans, acquisition financings, LBOs, asset-based loans and financial restructurings. Based in Los Angeles, David Reamer represents lenders, investors, borrowers and equity sponsors across a range of industries in transactions ranging from acquisition financings to restructurings and project financings. Clients report that "he is amazing, a top-notch attorney who is great to work with and knows how to get deals executed."

THE FIRM Very well known for its corporate M&A, capital markets and bank regulatory strengths, this firm operates out of Los Angeles and New York. Key clients include Barclays, Goldman Sachs and Madison Square Garden. The team advised Barclays on the financing it provided to BlackRock, for its acquisition of Barclays Global Investors.

Sources say: "A regulatory powerhouse that continues to do significant lending work."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Erik Lindauer specializes in transactional banking, secured lending, commercial law and bankruptcy. He advises clients in a range of complex secured and unsecured financings. Splitting her time between Los Angeles and New York, Hydee Feldstein represents both lenders and borrowers in structuring senior secured, second-lien, unsecured and subordinated financings and bridge loans in connection with cradle-to-grave strategic corporate transactions. Clients praise her "practical intelligence that allows her to create innovative solutions to problems."

Since publication, Hydee R Feldstein has retired from this practice.

THE FIRM This firm has strong offices in Chicago and New York and maintains a brilliant reputation for financing railcar, maritime, aircraft, healthcare, energy, computing and manufacturing equipment. Of late the team has seen a dramatic increase in financing operative leasing companies. Vedder Price recently represented DVB Bank and others in connection with a $400 million bank warehouse revolving credit facility.

Sources say: "A well-staffed firm of hard-working professionals not given to arcane or trendy interpretations of the law. They strike a balance between widely accepted practice and anticipated material changes in law and regulation when advising."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients describe Ronald Scheinberg as "extremely knowledgeable in funding matters and of great importance to us." His broad practice includes representation of commercial and investment banks, manufacturers and airlines in financing aircraft, railcars and other equipment. He represented Toronto Dominion Bank in connection with a $200 million US Ex-Im Bank-guaranteed loan facility for Sun Express, a Turkish airline. The "extraordinarily energetic and insightful" Jeffrey Veber advises on a variety of equipment finance matters in the transportation industry. He represented US Ex-Im Bank in connection with $1.1 billion cross-border lease financings of multiple Boeing model 737, 767 and 777 aircraft for GE Capital and various international airlines with US dollar-guaranteed loans.

THE FIRM This firm has prominent offices in Houston and New York, with experience representing both lenders and borrowers and advising on large investment grade acquisition financings. A strong bankruptcy practice has provided the team with a great volume of refinancing work during the economic downturn, but it is now seeing the return of healthy LBO and private equity activity. Key clients from the past year include Citibank, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Macquarie Securities, General Growth Properties, Credit Suisse, Providence Equity and Thomas H Lee Partners.

Sources say: "A formidable borrower-side practice managed by a sophisticated team. Always good to see them on the other side of a deal."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Daniel Dokos heads the global finance group from New York. His practice focuses on leveraged finance, acquisition-related investment grade lending and asset-based lending for clients such as Citibank and Goldman Sachs. He represented Citi and Deutsche Bank as lead arrangers in a $1 billion multicurrency revolving credit facility for International CCE as back-stop financing in connection with a merger and spin-off. Warren Buhle advises lenders and borrowers in various financial transactions. He represented real estate developer Crescent Resources in its $408 million exit financing to repay DIP financing and to support notes issued to pre-petition lenders in exchange for their claims. Douglas Urquhart recently represented GE Capital in $21.5 billion and JBP86.7 billion multicurrency revolving commercial paper backup facilities for itself, GE Capital Services and GE Capital European Funding. Clients say that he is "responsive, articulate and knowledgeable about current market trends" and that he can "simplify complex situations and articulate and execute practical solutions." The "fantastic" Angela Fontana is based in Dallas and represents both borrowers and financial institutions in a wide range of domestic and international transactions. She represented GE in the $9.85 billion bridge, term and revolving credit facility for NBC Universal.

THE FIRM For finance matters, this massive firm is best recognized in Miami and New York for its lender representation and equipment finance work. Owing to its global footprint, White & Case is visible on numerous cross-border transactions and has a notable presence in the Latin American market. Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse and GE Commercial Bank are key clients.

Sources say: "These lawyers have an excellent technical understanding of the leveraged market and very impressive cross-border activity levels."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Eric Berg heads the firm's global banking practice group and has a great reputation among his clients for getting the job done. His practice is focused on representation of lead agents and underwriters in leveraged finance transactions. David Bilkis represents commercial and investment banks as lead agents and arrangers in acquisition and leveraged financings, as does David Koschik, who is said to be "brilliant to work with." Michael Smith concentrates on aircraft finance and equipment leasing with experience in US Ex-Im Bank-supported transactions, leveraged financings and operating leases.