Antitrust: North Carolina

THE FIRM This firm has one of the most established antitrust practices in North Carolina. The team has been particularly active in competition issues pertaining to the healthcare industry and has been involved in some high-profile cases in recent years. Key clients include ABC Television Affiliates Association.

Sources say: "Traditionally one of the best antitrust practices in the state."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jeffrey Oleynik is described by one of our sources as "one of the best attorneys in the state, period." He is a highly regarded business litigator whose practice involves a large element of antitrust-related work. 

Jennifer Van Zant is a "top-notch" antitrust litigator who recently represented the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association in a notable class action.

Jim Williams is a vastly experienced business litigator with an impressive profile in the antitrust arena. Sources say he has a reputation for being "absolutely outstanding in the courtroom." 

THE FIRM Ellis & Winters is a sophisticated smaller firm with a marked excellence in complex commercial and antitrust litigation. A ten-strong team spread across offices in Raleigh and Greensboro focuses on antitrust and trade regulation, enabling it to service clients such as General Parts International and Stock Building Supply.

Sources say: "A fine boutique firm with a great collection of talent."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Matthew Sawchak is noted for his scholarly approach and is a frequent writer on aspects of competition law. He is described as "an excellent antitrust lawyer" by one admiring peer.

THE FIRM The Robinson Bradshaw antitrust team continues to be recognized as one of the most impressive practices in the state, noted in particular for its representation of clients involved in government investigations and for its strong relationships with many of the investigatory agencies. The firm has a strong presence in the burgeoning healthcare antitrust arena and also services clients such as CommScope and Vitafoam.

Sources say: "It is an extension of our leadership team and identifies our strategic concerns very quickly."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Everett Bowman concentrates on the healthcare industry, advising clients on the antitrust issues stemming from M&A. He receives high praise from several sources, with one commenting that "he is incredibly accessible and responsive, has great communication skills and understands my needs quickly and efficiently." 

Mark Merritt focuses on litigation and governmental investigations, often advising clients when global antitrust issues come into play. In reference to his abilities, one source says that "the top lawyers have trial skills and doctrinal knowledge, and Mark is one of the people that do this the best."

THE FIRM Womble Carlyle has recognized strength in all matters pertaining to antitrust and trade regulation. Its 31-strong team houses some of North Carolina's most established trial attorneys and has the breadth and depth of experience to take on the most complex of business torts, while the firm's noted IP practice adds further scope and capacity. Clients include Remington Arms and Carolinas HealthCare System.

Sources say: "A big firm with great political connections. Certainly one of the top firms for antitrust."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Copenhaver is an experienced litigator with a focus on antitrust and trade regulation. Sources single him out as "an essential part of the Womble Carlyle team."

Mark Horoschak is the firm's recognized expert on healthcare antitrust. He is lauded by sources, one of whom says: "He is the highest in the state in terms of substantive knowledge and agency connections."

THE FIRM Parker Poe is an emerging force in the area of antitrust law, with a team of 23 attorneys serving clients in the construction, healthcare, retail and manufacturing industries. The firm has scored notable successes before the FTC in Washington, DC and is highly prized by clients for its strong bench of skilled litigators.

Sources say: "Very strong advocates with a fine understanding of the FTC and antitrust legislation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS John Graybeal has long been recognized as one of the deans of the antitrust Bar in North Carolina, and is the leading light of the Parker Poe team. His practice covers litigation and counseling across a range of antitrust and trade regulation matters.