Chambers and Partners

The following excerpts from Chambers can also be found at www.chambersandpartners.com.

Chambers USA Chambers Global Chambers Asia-Pacific Chambers UK Chambers High Net Worth

Chambers USA

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for A full-service law firm that is widely recognized for its representation of major banks and other financial services entities. Frequently engaged in an array of sophisticated matters, including mortgage lending and restructuring, and also noted for its strength in project finance, particularly in the renewable energy space. Additionally recognized for its strength in banking and finance disputes, bond offerings and loan sales. Has developed a niche advising on financial matters within the healthcare sector.

Strengths A client describes the team as “very knowledgeable, responsive and a pleasure to work with.”

The attorneys are described as “excellent, cost-effective litigation specialists with a great focus in banking.”

Work highlight Represented a lender in a syndicate lending group in a $450 million credit facility to a health insurer.

Represented Wells Fargo Bank as lender in a $75 million credit facility to a manufacturer of piping systems, with guaranties obtained from affiliates in Belgium and Canada.

Notable practitioners

Clients state that Dianne Meyer is a respected practitioner with expertise in representing lenders and borrowers in secured and unsecured credit facilities. She is described by a client as “very knowledgeable on public finance matters.”

California

Ron Oliner is proficient in acting for lenders, trustees and creditors’ committees. He is praised as a “great lawyer” by sources, who say that he is “hard-working and well known among judges.”

Delaware

Michael Lastowski is adept at handling Chapter 11 proceedings on behalf of creditors, debtors and trustees. He is also capable of advising purchasers of distressed assets.

Illinois

John Weiss is accomplished in bankruptcy matters relating to the healthcare sector, with noted recent activity pertaining to nursing home insolvencies. Sources consider him to be “very thoughtful and very careful” and affirm that he is “a very good lawyer.”

Massachusetts

Considered “one of the brightest bankruptcy practitioners” in the Massachusetts market, Paul Moore of Duane Morris LLP advises on bankruptcy, litigation and restructuring exercises. He is further praised for being “very accomplished” and for giving “excellent business advice.”

New Jersey

Walter Greenhalgh is praised by interviewees as “strong advocate for his clients.” He has experience acting for and advising both creditors and debtors in bankruptcies and commercial reorganizations.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Distinguished practice handling high-profile Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings and major restructurings. Practitioners have considerable experience in cross-jurisdictional insolvency work and creditors’ rights matters. Significant experience in defending former executives against claims stemming from bankruptcy.

Strengths A client comments: “The team has taken the time to understand our business very well. They are very responsive and intelligent and they understand our needs but also can give excellent guidance on how to navigate the bankruptcy world.”

“The team at Duane Morris is comprised of highly competent, responsive attorneys who instill confidence and get results,” a source notes.

An observer appreciates that “the lawyers know our business, know our history and are extremely responsive and proactive.”

Work highlight Advised and defended the former president and chief executive officer of National Label in defense of claims to the value of $50 million connected to the company’s wind-down and sale.

Notable practitioners

Catherine Heitzenrater is rapidly gaining renown in the market as a “first-rate associate” and a “fast learner who can step in and provide advice.” She has experience representing debtors and trustees in Chapter 11 and Chapter 7 cases.

James Holman acts in a variety of insolvency matters on behalf of clients such as lenders and insurers. He is praised by interviewees for having “very good business sense and the ability to clearly communicate the pros and cons of each course of action, making it easy for the client to make an informed decision.

Lawrence Kotler is an experienced litigator, frequently representing parties in Chapter 7 cases. Sources report that “he is thorough, diligent and a top-notch attorney."”

Rudolph Di Massa is a “very strong, smart and personable lawyer,” noting that he has a “wealth of experience and is very well regarded.” He heads the firm’s business reorganization group and is highly skilled in defaulted bond matters.

Wendy Simkulak is accomplished in representing insurance companies in bankruptcy cases and is praised by clients for her “outstanding technical knowledge, commercial intelligence and effective client service.”

Nationwide

What the team is known for Utilizes cannabis expertise on a nationwide basis and across a broad spectrum of practice areas, with practitioners specializing in IP, corporate transactions and regulatory advice within the sector. Also boasts litigators able to handle contentious issues for producers and distributors.

Strengths Sources describe the team as “good attorneys with a good business sense. They look at things with balanced perspective, balancing business and legal terms in appropriate fashion.”

“They’re first-tier,”says a market observer, adding: “I’ve worked with numerous firms and Duane Morris is amongst the best. We’ve utilized numerous partners and associates from their firm, and the quality of all is consistently high, which I find to be unique.”

The firm’s full-service capabilities are highlighted by a client: “The nice thing about them is they have access to everything I need, and are able to bring resources to me in other parts of the world as well.”

Work highlights Acted for Woodstock Products in defense of a claim for trademark infringement from the founders of the festival of the same name.

Notable practitioners

Seth A. Goldberg was instrumental in the establishment of the firm’s cannabis law practice group and is noted for his “very good insight and overview of medical marijuana.” A commentator reports that “I am very impressed with him; he is extremely responsive, pragmatic in his approach and well versed in the fast-developing cannabis space.”

Nationwide

What the team is known for Prominent group working nationally and internationally on all aspects of construction law. Noted for its excellent record handling contentious claims in large-scale litigation, and for achieving settlements through alternative dispute resolution. Possesses substantial experience in a wide range of areas, including high-value project development, government contracts and public-private partnerships. Also highly regarded for its capabilities in sustainable design and engineering matters, mechanics’ liens and property damage claims.

Strengths Clients praise the group’s “insight and experience.”

Work highlights Represented Columbia University in its defense of a $16 million lawsuit commenced by Sciame Construction over the construction of the Roy and Diana Vagelos Education Center.

Drafted and negotiated contract documents for the construction of a $100 million housing and retail complex for University of the Sciences.

Notable practitioners

Chair of the firm’s construction team, Mark Canizio, is a key contact.

California

Robert Hendrickson has experience litigating cases arising from a broad range of construction and engineering contracts relating to public and private projects. He is also a highly experienced arbitrator.

Illinois

Charles Lewis Lewis is head of the firm’s construction practice group in Chicago. His expertise includes construction litigation. Sources appreciate that “he’s thoughtful, smart and has lots of trial experience.”

New York

What the team is known for Prominent construction practice with notable experience overseeing major developments and renovations in New York City. Well versed in all stages of project development and noted for counsel on front-end contract formation as well as dispute resolution. Deep reserves of knowledge with regard to public procurement and public-private partnership projects. Acts for an impressive client base including architects, engineers and contractors, as well as owners and construction managers.

Strengths One client states: “The construction group is outstanding.”

A peer says: “Duane Morris has a large core of dedicated construction attorneys and can draw on expertise in other related areas.”

Work highlight Counseled the Times Square Hotel Owner LLC on the $4.2 billion construction and reconstruction of a theater and hotel in Times Square, New York.

Notable practitioners

Allen Ross is much admired for his decades of experience representing clients in construction disputes. Latterly, he is much sought after for arbitrations and mediations.

Frederick Cohen is a respected figure in the construction sector, noted for his trial practice and representation of contractors and sureties, as well as owner-developers. He is also recommended for his alternative dispute resolution work.

Kenneth Lazaruk has an all-encompassing construction practice, taking in contract negotiation, litigation and alternative dispute resolution. He represents major developers, universities and non-profit organizations as well as contractors. A client describes him as “very goal-oriented, pragmatic and a strong strategist.”

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Distinguished firm in the construction space, well known for negotiating contracts and handling arbitration and litigation involving complex projects on a national and international scale. Offers experts in public and private contracts, OSHA compliance and turnkey contracts. Particularly excels in P3 projects and bid protests and award disputes. Acts for a wide-ranging client base which includes educational institutions, architects and residential associations.

Notable practitioners

Joseph Battipaglia is an “extraordinarily good” and “creative” construction attorney with noted expertise in power and infrastructure projects. One appreciative client says: “He really keeps clients informed and is very responsive. Despite being a very busy attorney, it sometimes surprises us how easily he’s available, any time we need.”

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Respected operator in the Pennsylvania market with a varied corporate practice. Very active in M&A and securities work advising on joint ventures, corporate governance and other transactional issues. Regularly assists private equity funds and financial institutions with structuring private debt or equity investments.

Strengths “They provide excellent client service and are highly transparent,” states one client.

Sources also report that they are “practical and efficient, always completing quality work in a timely way.”

Work highlights Represented Bracket, a clinical trial technology and specialty services provider, in its acquisition of mProve Health.

Notable practitioners

Kathleen Shay has a wealth of experience in all areas of corporate law, including M&A, venture capital and securities regulation. Clients report that she has a “very good knowledge base in private equity financings, rules and market norms.”

Richard Jaffe has notable experience in the technology, alternative energy and manufacturing industries and is skilled in private equity finance. Clients report that he is “terrific – he’s highly recommended for his quality work and timely, great advice.”

Sandra Stoneman is experienced in M&A, venture capital, private equity and general corporate law. She is particularly focused on representing emerging companies, entrepreneurs and public companies. Clients report that she is “practical and efficient” and note that “she is a great negotiator.

Nationwide

Sheila Slocum Hollis handles a variety of regulatory work as well as industry-related litigation for electricity sector clients. A source says: “She is astute, well informed and takes a no-nonsense approach to negotiations.”

New Jersey

The “very well respected” Lawrence Diamond of Duane Morris LLP has a deep understanding of environmental law, from the Clean Water Act to Superfund. He is skilled at enabling clients to meet business objectives while complying with regulations.

Lori A. Mills of Duane Morris LLP is a strong advocate for clients involved in civil litigation and enforcement proceedings. Her expansive knowledge of environmental law spans a diverse array of issues including Superfund, contamination issues and site development. Sources portray her as “smart and hard-working” and laud her “extraordinary recall” and “collegial approach.”

Florida

What the team is known for Talented group providing a range of healthcare services across regulatory, administrative litigation and transactional issues. Skilled practitioners offer guidance to hospitals, physician groups and assisted living centers, among other clients. Other key areas of expertise include post-acute and long-term care, telemedicine and information technology.

Notable practitioners

Joanne Erde is described by her peers in the market as “a first-rate lawyer” and “a go-to name for provider reimbursement issues.” She is particularly well known for her work advising healthcare providers on both Medicare and Medicaid compliance, coverage and payment matters.

Illinois

What the team is known for Expert healthcare practice with a substantial Illinois offering. Advises clients such as hospitals and physicians on disputes, regulatory compliance and transactions. Also noted for its niche telemedicine capabilities. Notable experience in the post-acute care and senior living space.

Strengths Clients appreciate “their intelligence, cohesiveness and the fluidity in the way they work together to solve problems.”

Another source states: “They are very well versed in all aspects of healthcare.”

Work highlights Represented Arkansas Specialty Orthopedics in its merger with another orthopedic practice, which also included advising on areas such as contracts, antitrust and tax.

Notable practitioners

Nicholas J. Lynn offers particular strength in regulatory issues impacting the pharmaceutical and post-acute care markets, fielding additional experience as a litigator. One source observes: “He has an exceptional knowledge of our sector, and is able to educate and problem-solve issues of concern.”

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Longstanding healthcare practice noted for its highly respected bench of experienced transactional and regulatory compliance experts. Maintains a broad client base representative of its widespread industry coverage. Notable expertise in areas such as complex contractual arrangements, patient data sharing, reimbursement disputes and malpractice litigation of all kinds. Displays strength in issues surrounding telemedicine and health information technology.

Strengths An impressed client enthuses: “Duane Morris is one of the best firms I have worked with.”

Work highlight Served as lead regulatory counsel to Mid-Atlantic Dental Partners in the acquisition and take-private of a dental management services company.

Notable practitioners

David Loder chairs the firm’s health law practice group and is described by clients as an “incredibly strong and knowledgeable lawyer.” His highly regarded regulatory practice frequently sees him handle hospital governance, accreditation and managing care arrangements.

Lisa Clark is particularly adept at handling regulatory compliance and reimbursement matters for healthcare providers, as well as having experience in broader HIPAA and Affordable Care Act issues. Interviewees say she is “technically very sound."”

Michael Mustokoff is a “very good and practical lawyer” who is held in high esteem for his strength in healthcare litigation. He is additionally experienced in commercial and regulatory matters.

USA – Nationwide

What the team is known for Respected immigration department offering expertise across the full spectrum of corporate immigration matters, as well as visa and deportation issues for individuals. Supports a broad roster of clients, including corporations, nonprofits, religious organizations and educational institutions. Offers additional strengths in immigration litigation and regulatory compliance.

Strengths One client feels: “I can always count on them; they are very responsive, helpful and knowledgeable.”

Work highlights Conducted immigration due diligence for Primavera in the acquisition of 11 Montessori schools and provided advice on a critical EB-5 component.

Notable practitioners

Denyse Sabagh leverages experience garnered from three decades practicing immigration law in order to advise her clients on a broad range of matters, including immigrant and non-immigrant visas, PERM labor certifications and I-9 verification matters. Clients report that “she is excellent, responsive, down to earth and takes the time to explain things fully.”

California

What the team is known for Accomplished business immigration practice with experience in global visas and work and residence permit applications. Also handles compliance audits, for clients ranging from large multinational corporations to NGOs and individuals, as well as immigration-related litigation and government compliance matters. Sector-specific experience pertaining to a wide range of industries, including IT, biotechnology and telecom.

Work highlights Acted for The Siegfried Group in a range of immigration matters, including preparing the company’s employees for border and Embassy appointments.

Notable practitioners

Lisa Spiegel is highly regarded for her experience across a range of business immigration matters, including H-1B petitions and PERM certifications. A client reports: “She provides extremely responsive, sensitive and proficient advice.”

District of Columbia

What the team is known for Prominent practice offering a diverse selection of immigration services including transactional support, immigrant and nonimmigrant visa assistance and global mobility strategies. Clients range from nonprofits and educational institutions to Fortune 500 companies, across such sectors as IT, biotechnology, security and entertainment. Also adeptly handles deportation litigation.

Strengths One satisfied client reports: “I can always count on them; they are responsive, helpful and knowledgeable.”

Notable practitioners

Denyse Sabagh is highly regarded for her expertise in complex immigrant and nonimmigrant visa matters. Clients report: “She is excellent, down to earth and takes the time to explain things,” while peers note “her reputation for handling complex cases.”

USA – Nationwide

What the team is known for Represents insurers in virtually all lines of coverage, with its robust disputes practice bolstered by key regulatory and reinsurance expertise. Also handles litigation and arbitrations of the highest complexity, as well as large environmental claims and commercial general liability cases. Offers clients expertise both at trial and on appeal. Additionally provides notable capability in relation to bankruptcy and market conduct matters as part of an all-encompassing insurance practice.

Strengths Sources say: “It has a good client following in bigger and more complex direct insurance matters.”

Work highlights Represented American Centennial Insurance in appellate proceeding before the California Supreme Court. The dispute related to indemnity liabilities arising from long-tail environmental damage and remediation costs.

Notable practitioners

Max H. Stern chairs the firm’s insurance practice and possesses notable experience advising insurers on a range of high-value coverage disputes. He exhibits particular skill in complex appellate matters.

Philip Matthews is an experienced trial lawyer recognized for his particular expertise in substantial insurance coverage disputes. According to sources: “He is like a walking encyclopedia of coverage law; he really rolls up his sleeves and gets into a case.”

California

What the team is known for Well-regarded practice with a deep bench and a wide range of expertise that allows it to advise on almost all aspects of insurance law, from company formations through high-stakes litigation. Particularly adroit at handling large environmental claims and also possesses keen insight into the workings of London and European insurance markets. Frequently sought out by an enviable client roster featuring some of the largest players in the insurance space. Also offers specialist expertise in managing run-off exposures.

Strengths Clients say: “It is very client-oriented and always responsive to our needs. We consider the work to be of good value for the sums charged.”

“They’re clearly a class act in California,” says a source; “every big case has their lawyers involved, and they are uniformly good.”

Commentators report that the team is “high-quality, very experienced, and has a lot of people doing this work.”

Work highlights Acted as lead trial counsel on behalf of the California Insurance Guarantee Association, concerning claims for bodily injury caused by asbestos.

Notable practitioners

Andrew Gordon is a well-regarded practitioner focusing on high-level litigation related to insurance coverage. He frequently acts as trial counsel on matters involving data privacy and environmental disputes.

Max Stern’s insurance practice covers contentious environmental contamination and remediation matters. Sources say: “He is a great lawyer and a talented litigator.”

Philip Matthews brings to bear his substantial experience in insurance disputes concerning environmental contamination. Sources say: "He has encyclopedic knowledge of insurance law and is a top-notch litigator, with a lot of deep experience of large complex trials.”

Ray Wong “has deep, extensive knowledge and experience in insurance,” says a market commentator; “we find him very competent, very knowledgeable and very good to work with.” He maintains an insurance litigation practice with clients including notable sector insurers and guaranty associations.

Texas

Alex Gonzales leads the firm’s insurance department and is well regarded in the market for his strength in advising on a wide range of complex insurance regulatory matters. Sources extol him as “the patriarch of insurance.”

Georgia

What the team is known for Recognized for its experience acting for technology companies in contentious proceedings, including patent infringement disputes. Offers skilled representation in misuse of trade secrets cases. Also advises on portfolio management matters including licensing negotiations. Additional strength in matters pertaining to the entertainment, media, franchising and consumer products areas.

Strengths Clients remark: “They’re good brief writers, very responsive and don’t let things fall through the cracks.”

Acted on behalf of Time Warner, Charter, Verizon, Cox, and ARRIS against patent infringement allegations brought by mtel. The dispute concerned WiFi and MIMO wireless technologies.

Notable practitioners

Louis Jameson leads the firm’s IP practice and is highlighted for his particular skill in an array of hi-tech, sophisticated patent disputes. Clients report: “He’s fantastic; very collegial, smart, has a great demeanor and puts our best interests first.”

Matthew Gaudet Gaudet possesses considerable expertise in advising technology sector clients on complex patent litigation. Interviewees report: “He is a tremendous advocate; extremely articulate, very smart, and judges and juries like him.”

Robin McGrath is a highly experienced IP practitioner recognized for handling an array of high-value patent infringement disputes. She is also highlighted for her expertise in the technology and fintech sectors.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for An experienced group with a breadth of highly effective practitioners capable of providing assistance on a full range of IP matters, including patents, trademarks, copyrights and licensing. Acts for an impressive raft of clients that includes market leaders in life sciences, consumer products, telecommunications and beverages. Represents both defendants and plaintiffs in IP litigation concerning patent and copyright infringement as well as trade secret and noncompete disputes.

Strengths One client appreciates that “the team has clearly defined responsibilities and harmonizes well,” adding: “You know that matters entrusted to them will be handled well.”

Work highlights Successfully defended Intuitive Machines against a lawsuit brought by Moon Express over its alleged failure to design and deliver flight software. Subsequently represented Intuitive Machines in its counterclaim against Moon Express for failure to make payments due under contract.

Notable practitioners

“Great attorney and really good guy” Aleksander Goranin is well versed in complex, big-ticket IP litigation. He has experience in advising on patent, copyright, trademark and trade secret concerns, as well as Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) issues

David Wolfsohn is an “outstanding” trial lawyer with an impressive track record in handling big-ticket copyright infringement and trade secret lawsuits. A client comments: “He’s just been spectacular. He’s a terrific communicator and he is very thoughtful in his approach. I like lawyers that think of things that I don’t and he manages to pull that off all the time. David also has the capacity to make things simple.”

Peter Cronk is an IP lawyer specializing in the procurement and litigation of patents. He has significant experience in advising on medical devices, glass fabrics and building materials. Interviewees note that he is a “highly regarded and very active” lawyer.

Florida

Michael Casey of Duane Morris LLP is a hugely respected attorney who continues to provide his clients in the Miami market with the benefit of his immense experience in all aspects of labor and employment law. Interviewees refer to him as “a Godfather of employment law.”

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Offers comprehensive coverage across a range of employment, immigration and benefit plans matters. Draws from an experienced pool of litigators to act on wage and hour disputes and wider employment claims that cross state lines. Also noted for its strength in traditional labor law, including labor relations matters, union issues and regulatory compliance. Acts for a broad spectrum of public and private sector clients.

Strengths According to an appreciative client, “the team has a longstanding relationship with us. It is a result of their taking time to know the players here, our work culture and the type of business we perform. That combination along with their high level of expertise worked to all of our benefit.”

According to another source, “they are experts in their respective areas and that is clear as we work together and they provide advice. They are responsive 24/7.”

A client recalls: “I’ve been very happy with the service. They understand the law and have helped us navigate through some complex situations.”

Work highlights Represented Pennsylvania Public School Employees’ Retirement System in the implementation of a new defined contribution retirement plan, the first of its kind for public school employees in the state.

Notable practitioners

John A. Nixon provides expertise on the spectrum of compensation, pension and retirement plans. A client describes him as “responsive, practical and knowledgeable” and values his “solutions that work for our business.” Another client notes: “He is prompt in responding to questions, and looks to find ways to accommodate our desires within the confines of the law.”

Jonathan Segal counsels clients in a wide variety of employment-related issues. He also provides training, and clients appreciate how he “keeps you up to date with regards to all employment law issues.” According to a commentator: “He is just really thoughtful in how he approaches issues. He’s very good at managing risk in a realistic way and distinguishes himself as a go-to person when issues have more nuance.”

Thomas Servodidio is a The “well-regarded” employment litigator and labor relations attorney. According to impressed sources: “He has provided exemplary service on employment matters. He is resolutely committed to his clients, doing whatever he needs to spur himself and his colleagues on to great results.”

California

The “very experienced” and “very accomplished” George D. Niespolo handles a wide range of criminal matters. His experience includes securities, healthcare and general fraud matters as well as criminal antitrust.

New Jersey

Eric Breslin is highlighted for his “formidable practice” in white-collar criminal defense, as well as his handling of civil disputes. He acts on matters such as RICO violations and allegations of fraud. “He’s that rare combination of being an excellent trial lawyer, an excellent white-collar criminal practitioner and an excellent civil litigator,” report interviewees.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Broad litigation team with extensive experience representing clients in class actions before the state and federal courts. Renowned for its prowess in securities and white-collar crime cases and also noted for its strengths across IP, product liability and antitrust disputes. Also adept at advising on franchise litigation. Particularly recognized for its representation of clients in the life sciences, technology and financial sectors.

Strengths Sources say: “They provide good, solid advice and are very creative in the way they go about advancing our position.”

Interviewees say: “I am very impressed with them. They are very well prepared in all respects.”

Commentators say: “They are very good litigators. They are practical, think about ramifications of potential allegations in their analysis, and are thorough.”

Work highlights Represented StayWell in a suit brought by the former employer of a current StayWell employee alleging breach of contract and tortious interference.

Notable practitioners

John Soroko is a celebrated litigator who has notable expertise in commercial disputes. His practice includes defending securities class actions.

Matthew Taylor is considered a leader in commercial litigation and often handles disputes centered around banking and securities law. His client base includes medical device manufacturers, whom he represents in product liability litigation.

Michael Mustokoff multifaceted white-collar crime practice involves handling fraudulent insurance cases and RICO actions. Peers say his strengths lie in “strategy and his ability to see the bigger picture.”

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Advises developers, financial institutions and contractors on all aspects of transactional real estate. Maintains a fine reputation for its work in the leisure and hospitality space, and is also a popular choice of firm for its counsel on multifamily properties and projects in the healthcare sector. Capable of assisting both landlords and tenants with leasing issues. Client base also includes lenders and property developers.

Work highlights Advised MLP Ventures on structuring and documenting the sale and leaseback of a corporate campus in Philadelphia.

Notable practitioners

David Augustin is an “intellectual and very smart” lawyer who advises on a range of real estate transactions. His expertise spans commercial leasings, acquisitions and sales.

Nationwide

Thomas W. Ostrander is praised by sources as being “realistic in his analysis” and has “great, useful practical insight into the application of the law by the IRS.” He is particularly experienced in representing individuals in criminal tax matters.

Florida

Praised by market sources for his “great ability with clients” and also his “technical ability,” William Rohrer advises international and domestic clients on tax planning, often across multiple jurisdictions.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Strong transactional tax practice that advises a range of domestic and international clients on structuring deals. Also noted for its handling of state and federal controversy work, which includes acting on criminal proceedings. Client base includes partnerships, limited liability companies and corporations.

Strengths Clients say: “They do very sophisticated work and are exceptional lawyers.”

Another source admires that the team is made up of “down-to-earth professionals who have respect towards institutions and the persons who work there.”

Work highlights Represented Seacor Holdings in its acquisition of CLEANCOR Holdings.

Notable practitioners

Hope Krebs is considered an expert in international taxation, and specializes in cross-border transactions such as M&A and private equity matters. Interviewees report that she is a “very strong lawyer and leader” who is “very knowledgeable and skilled in international taxation.”

Chambers Global

The firm’s Singapore office regularly advises financiers and issuers on IPOs and rights issues in India. In one highlight, it advised Centrum Capital as bookrunner on the USD121 million rights issue by The Lakshmi Vilas Bank. The firm’s practice is led by Jamie A. Benson.

Ute Mueller is based in the London office of Duane Morris LLP and is admitted to practice in Germany and England and Wales. She advises German clients on the acquisition of UK companies and UK-based clients on the divestment of assets to German buyers. Interviewees highlight that she “has a great feel for the cultural differences between the German and UK business cultures which allows her to meet the needs of German clients.”

Gerard A. Hekker of Duane Morris & Selvam LLP has a practice which encompasses M&A transactions as well as capital markets mandates. He represents a range of Indonesian and multinational financial institutions as well as corporates from the telecoms and resources sectors.

What the team is known for Leverages its established network of Asian offices to offer foreign and local counsel to clients. Client roster includes financial institutions, private equity funds and corporates, and advice covers a range of corporate advisory and M&A issues in various sectors, including TMT. Has lately benefited from a growth in Chinese and Indonesian corporate clients. Advised Protelindo on its acquisition of the Indonesian telecommunications tower business Solusi Tunas Pratama.

Gerard A. Hekker Hekker is active on Indonesian M&A transactions with particular expertise in the telecommunications sector. Clients say that “he thinks outside the box” and is “very good in coming up with solutions.”

Krishna Ramachandra has broad expertise, leading the firm’s corporate, fintech and TMT teams. He wins praise from a client for being a “true leader and true gentleman who has extensive knowledge of capital markets, corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions.”

Giles Cooper “responds quickly and explains the nuances of Vietnamese laws in an effective manner,” according to his clients. He is frequently instructed by international clients on M&A deals in Vietnam, and has additional expertise regarding corporate governance.

What the team is known for What the team is known for An accomplished team of practitioners in Yangon, ably supported by the team in Singapore, advising on both domestic and international matters. Multidisciplinary practice with expertise across build-operate-transfer project development, capital markets and private equity investment. Further experience includes a range of financing and market entry work as well as Myanmar-related arbitrations. Increasingly recognised for expertise providing local law advice on corporate transactions and regulatory matters. Advises a number of clients in the energy and resources sector.

Strengths A pleased client explains: “They have been very easy to work with and extremely diligent.”

Work highlights Advised Global Power Synergy on its USD500 million acquisition of two solar power plants and project companies in Myanmar.

Advised InterContinental Hotels on its entry into the Myanmar market, providing tax and employment advice.

Notable practitioners

Head of department Krishna Ramachandra is a key contact.

Sources speak highly of Miami-based Miles Plaskett of Duane Morris LLP, highlighting his frequent activity in the US Virgin Islands. He advises on a range of project finance matters, particularly in the energy sector, and also has considerable experience advising utility companies in this jurisdiction.

The “terrific” Denyse Sabagh leads the firm’s immigration practice, calling upon over 30 years of experience in the field to advise on areas including corporate immigration, consular processing and immigration issues arising out of criminal charges. Clients say: “There is no immigration question she can’t answer. She really takes care of our company - we are a top priority for her. She is a true partner.”

Oliver Massmann is highly adept at handling renewable energy projects, and is especially active in the solar market. Clients declare: “He is highly knowledgeable about all aspects of law in Vietnam and speaks Vietnamese fluently, which helps tremendously.”

Chambers Asia-Pacific

Gerard A. Hekker of Duane Morris & Selvam LLP has a practice which encompasses M&A transactions as well as capital markets mandates. He represents a range of Indonesian and multinational financial institutions as well as corporates from the telecom and resources sectors.

What the team is known for Leverages its established network of Asian offices to offer foreign and local counsel to clients. Client roster includes financial institutions, private equity funds and corporates, and advice covers a range of corporate advisory and M&A issues in various sectors, including TMT. Has lately benefited from a growth in Chinese and Indonesian corporate clients.

Strengths One client says: “No words could explain the kind of dedication and in-depth knowledge provided in all the work with them.”

Another client commends the team for its “outstanding service,” appreciating its “emphasis on excellent customer service.”

Work highlights Advised Protelindo as international counsel in connection with its acquisition of Komet Infra Nusantara by way of an auction sale process.

Acted for Accelera in relation to the acquisition and sale of various real estate hospitality projects in Japan and Thailand.

Notable practitioners

Krishna Ramachandra has broad expertise, leading the firm’s corporate, fintech and TMT teams. He wins praise from a client for being a “true leader and true gentleman who has extensive knowledge of capital markets, corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions.”

What the team is known for Respected practice that regularly advises foreign companies wishing to set up in Vietnam, as well as on M&A work. Also well-versed in distribution agreements. Clients include local and South-East Asian investors, and a number of Japanese and European companies. Regularly acts for businesses in the retail, finance, technology and healthcare industries.

Strengths The team’s attentiveness impresses clients, who declare: “Their turnaround time to provide accurate and concise guidance is extraordinary” and “they get to the right answer quickly and thoroughly, putting clients’ business and legal needs at the forefront.”

Another client praises the firm’s “superb customer service, and client briefing as well as their deep knowledge about our business.”

Work highlights Assisted Yellow Star Investment 22 with the acquisition of a minority interest in a Vietnamese dental and healthcare services company.

Acted for Mulwarra Export on the acquisition of assets from a Vietnamese distributor relating to food products in the luxury hotel sector.

Notable practitioners

Giles Cooper “responds quickly and explains the nuances of Vietnamese laws in an effective manner,” according to his clients. He is frequently instructed by international clients on M&A deals in Vietnam, and has additional expertise regarding corporate governance.

What the team is known for An accomplished team of practitioners in Yangon, ably supported by the team in Singapore, advising on both domestic and international matters. Multidisciplinary practice with expertise across build-operate-transfer project development, capital markets and private equity investment. Further experience includes a range of financing and market entry work as well as Myanmar-related arbitrations. Increasingly recognised for expertise providing local law advice on corporate transactions and regulatory matters. Advises a number of clients in the energy and resources sector.

Strengths A pleased client explains: “They have been very easy to work with and extremely diligent.”

Work highlights Advised Global Power Synergy on its USD500 million acquisition of two solar power plants and project companies in Myanmar.

Advised InterContinental Hotels on its entry into the Myanmar market, providing tax and employment advice.

Notable practitioners

Head of department Krishna Ramachandra is a key contact.

What the team is known for Well-established projects team with a particular focus on the renewable energy sector, especially concerning solar power. Also active on infrastructure and oil and gas mandates, representing developers, sponsors and state-owned enterprises. Often involved in cross-border matters, including projects relating to Myanmar.

Strengths The team’s ability to quickly grasp clients’ requirements is highlighted by one interviewee, who says: “They know what we need without wasting a lot of time, providing customised input.”

Clients also value the “quick and thorough advice,” and say: “They are available at any time.”

Work highlights Assisted TCP Asia Pacific with tax, corporate and insurance issues linked to its proposed construction of six solar power plants in Myanmar with a collective wattage of 420 MW.

Acted for Greencells Group on the establishment of commercial operations in Vietnam, including in relation to proposed solar power projects.

Notable practitioners

Oliver Massmann is highly adept at handling renewable energy projects, and is especially active in the solar market. Clients declare: “He is highly knowledgeable about all aspects of law in Vietnam and speaks Vietnamese fluently, which helps tremendously.”

Chambers UK

Ute Mueller of Duane Morris LLP is lauded for her “hands-on and pragmatic advice,” as well as her ability to “never lose sight of commerciality in negotiations, and stay very calm under pressure.” As a dual-qualified UK and German practitioner she excels in Anglo-German deals, particularly those occurring in the hospitality and natural resources sectors.

Chambers High Net Worth

Jocelyn Borowsky of Duane Morris LLP is “a hugely impressive lawyer with real expertise in niche areas of law,” says an interviewee. She deals with all aspects of wealth and estate planning and is licensed to practise in Delaware, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. “She speaks fluently and intelligently on these subjects,” enthuses one peer. Another market insider notes that “she is a very, very bright person who is super-involved in the industry.” Borowsky’s role in the wider political arena is further noted by a local adviser who explains: “She has been instrumental in legislative reforms which have been majorly beneficial for the Delaware trust industry.