Chambers and Partners Honors Duane Morris Attorneys

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for A full-service law firm which 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.

Strengths A source notes that the team consists of “outstanding technical lawyers who also provide great insight and market intelligence – they are extremely responsive and committed to quality of service.”

A satisfied client recalls that “Duane Morris and its counsel provided seamless guidance all the way through the process.”

Work highlights Represented Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission as borrower in an $800 million loan facility transaction to finance capital improvements to a toll road.

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 an “excellent attorney with thorough knowledge, who clearly advocates for the client's needs and provides suggestions that are useful in negotiations.” She is proficient in representing both borrowers and lenders in the establishment of credit facilities.

California

Ron Oliner of Duane Morris LLP is well thought of for his work for creditors’ committees, trustees and financial institutions in the bankruptcy and restructuring space. Sources describe him as “a smart, aggressive lawyer” who is “personable and good with clients.”

Delaware

Michael Lastowski is managing partner of the firm's Wilmington office. He is known for his handling of contentious bankruptcy matters, and peers highlight him as a “strong lawyer and a good litigator.”

Illinois

Clients appreciate that John Weiss of Duane Morris LLP “is very practical and gets right to the heart of things.” He regularly works for banks and other lenders, such as asset managers, in loan defaults and debt refinancings.

Massachusetts

What the team is known for Advice to creditors, distressed businesses and trustees across the range of bankruptcy matters. Noted for expertise in creditors'; rights enforcement, cross-border insolvency matters and out-of-court restructurings. Particularly praised for the firm’s impressive handling of the recent New England Compounding Pharmacy case.

Work highlights Continued to represent CrossHarbor in complex litigation and appeals in connection to Chapter 11 acquisition of The Yellowstone Club, a private ski and golf club.

Advised Aecon Group, a Canadian construction company in Chapter 11 proceedings filed by Westinghouse Electric Company and its affiliates. The client is a major construction supplier for two of Westinghouse’s nuclear power plant projects.

Notable practitioners

Paul Moore is a highly regarded bankruptcy practitioner skilled across a broad range of reorganizations, workouts and Chapter 11 matters. Market sources report: "He is very well respected and very responsive," with another adding: “He is very diligent, very smart and knows how to make a transaction happen.”

New Jersey

Walter Greenhalgh of Duane Morris LLP is an acclaimed practitioner with an established bankruptcy practice whose areas of work include Chapter 11 reorganizations and litigation. He is described as “a zealous advocate for his clients' interests” and is noted for his “great knowledge of bankruptcy law and his ability to find creative solutions.”

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.

Strengths Clients note that Duane Morris has an “outstanding team of lawyers combining top-notch advice with a tremendous understanding of our business – they work hard to get favorable results.”

Sources highlight that “the firm provides first-rate services. The team members are well qualified, responsive and intelligent.”

Work highlights Represented approximately 100 Italian citizens owning $51 million of defaulted bonds issued by the Argentine Republic and succeeded in negotiating a final settlement with Argentina, for a total of $106 million.”

Notable practitioners

Peers recognize that 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.

James Holman maintains a broad insolvency practice, frequently advising banks as creditors. Clients describe him as “excellent, with very good business sense.”

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."”

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 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&srquo; liens and property damage claims.

Work highlights Represented the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District, managing ongoing projects and claims avoidance as well as bid protests and contract disputes.

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

Notable practitioners

Mark Canizio in New York is a key contact.

California

Robert Hendrickson of Duane Morris LLP is a notable litigator in the California construction law space with extensive experience representing contractors and owners. A client reports: “My experience with him has been excellent. He is a bright, resourceful and thoughtful attorney.”

Illinois

Charles Lewis of Duane Morris LLP has “an excellent grasp of construction law and litigation,” say sources. One client reports: “His analysis of conflict, development of a strategy of its resolution, and execution of that strategy was flawless.”

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 assisting through all stages of a project and noted for its 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 A client says: “They are very goal-oriented, pragmatic and strong strategists.”

Work highlights Advised Columbia University on the redevelopment of an approximate 35-acre area in West Harlem known as Manhattanville to expand its campus and revitalize the area.

Advised Zeckendorf Development on the development, design and construction of luxury apartments and condominiums.

Notable practitioners

Allen Ross is particularly acclaimed for his mediation and arbitration practice. One source describes him as “one of the big guns” of New York construction law.

Frederick Cohen is best known as a litigator and trial lawyer, although he has also secured good results for clients through alternative dispute resolution. He has also negotiated complex contractual arrangements for owners, developers and contractors.

Kenneth Lazaruk is highly regarded for his experience in contract negotiation, alternative dispute resolution and litigation. His clients include owners and contractors and he has advised on the construction of large mixed-use development projects.

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.

Strengths Clients say: “We were very pleased with the results and they are good value for money.”

Work highlights Negotiated a settlement for Unionville-Chads Ford School District in a dispute arising out of the construction of a new theater. The matter involved allegations that specialized sound characteristics left the theater useless during rain events and required extensive modifications to the roof structure.

Assisted the University of the Sciences in drafting and negotiating contract documents for the construction of a $100 million housing and retail complex.

Notable practitioners

Robert Prentice is a seasoned expert in construction law, drawing from over three decades of experience in the sector. Fellow practitioners reveal he is “well respected” in the market, describing him as “a very fine lawyer.”

Richard Lowe is regarded as a leading authority on dispute resolution in the construction sector, regularly advising owners, designers and contractors on a range of litigation, arbitration and mediation claims. Clients say: “His strengths are his knowledge of construction law and his ability to focus on key issues that needed to be addressed.”

Joseph Battipaglia has attained a strong reputation in the construction field, with expertise in both contentious and noncontentious construction law matters. His practice features strengths in negotiating contracts, handling licensing issues and disputes work, including bid protests. He offers particular experience in the energy sector.

Eastern 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.

Strengths One satisfied client reports: “They are excellent and always significantly exceed expectations. They deliver the highest-quality work, even with the most complex matters.”

Sources state: “The team has strong business acumen and strong industry awareness, and is client-focused.”

Work highlights Represented AgriMetis in its Series B financing, including the participation of new investors. The firm also advised on structuring collaborations and strategic alliances.

Represented Prinston Pharmaceutical, a generic drug company, in its acquisition of a drug manufacturing plant and the right to produce and market 18 generic medicines.

Notable practitioners

Kathleen Shay Shay is an experienced practitioner, skilled at handling complex transactional matters including high-value M&A and private equity financings. Sources report: “She has extremely broad knowledge of corporate law, and is very reliable and thoughtful," with others saying: "She is highly technical, quick to respond and produces high-quality work product.”

Richard Jaffe possesses notable expertise across private equity investments and complex acquisitions. Clients say: “He has outstanding business acumen, superior industry and business knowledge, and a passion for us as a client.”

Massachusetts

Thomas Redekopp of Duane Morris LLP handles a broad range of transactional matters including M&A, private equity buyouts, venture financings and securities offerings. His clients include public companies, venture capital firms and private equity firms.

Nationwide

Sheila Slocum Hollis of Duane Morris LLP handles both international and domestic regulatory and litigation matters for clients in the electricity industry. Interviewees say: “She has tremendous experience in the space. She's very pragmatic and very intuitive.”

New Jersey

The“very well-regarded” Lawrence Diamond of Duane Morris LLP is a highly experienced practitioner. He offers notable skill across a broad range of environmental matters, including RCRA, Superfund, CAA and CWA issues.

Lori A. Mills of Duane Morris LLP is a well-regarded environmental practitioner skilled at handling complex disputes and advising on compliance issues. She also offers experience across transactional matters. One source says: “She is extremely responsive, has a mind like a steel trap and remembers all the relevant details,” adding: “She's also been very skillful in negotiations.”

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.

Strengths Clients praise the team's “highly skilled, professional and fairly priced” service, noting that the lawyers are “really experienced.”

Another source confirms Duane Morris is “very strong in healthcare law.”

Work highlights Advised Orange Accountable Care of South Florida on managed care matters including contracts, regulatory issues related to Medicaid and Medicare, and alternative payment methods.

Represented a group of Florida hospitals which challenged Florida’s Agency for Healthcare Administration’s implementation of state regulations regarding rates set for each individual hospital.

Notable practitioners

One client singles out Joanne Erde as their “go-to attorney for healthcare reimbursement,” and other sources also frequently reference her strong experience in matters related to Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement. Erde's other areas of focus include HHS OIG and state investigations on compliance and alleged abuse, and administrative litigation within the healthcare space, representing various providers.

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 say: “They are a terrific team highly knowledgeable and always responsive, with competitive rates.”

A client highly commends the firm's “quality, service and value."

Notable practitioners

Nicholas J. Lynn is a respected healthcare lawyer best known for his experience handling matters in the pharmaceutical and long-term care space. Clients say: “He is a very strategic lawyer who offers phenomenal customer service,” adding: “He is extremely intelligent and knowledgeable with regard to all areas of healthcare law.”

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.

Strengths A client says: “Their range of expertise and experience puts them among the best firms that represent hospitals and healthcare systems.”

A peer says of their experience working with the team: “Extraordinary – I know top-ranked lawyering when I see it and this was top.”

Work highlights Advised several international healthcare insurers on behalf of Philadelphia International Medicine to help determine pricing and delivery of care mechanisms for international patients at the client's hospitals.

Counseled a nursing home system's response to a state licensure investigation and accompanying negotiations to avoid loss of licensure and exclusion from the Medicare program.

Notable practitioners

David Loder advises healthcare providers on the full span of regulatory compliance issues, including hospital governance, accreditation, federal health insurance programs and reimbursement disputes. A client says: “He stands out for the quality of his judgment on how best to resolve regulatory matters.”

Lisa Clark is particularly sought after for advice on hospital governance, licensing issues, data protection with regard to medical information and reimbursement disputes. She is considered by peers to be “really smart” and “very good on privacy.”

Michael Mustokoff is well known for defending medical practices in cases filed under the False Claims Act by government agencies and qui tam relators, as well as other types of civil, criminal and regulatory litigation. A source says: “I wanted someone who commands respect and he exceeded every expectation.”

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 Clients say: “They have a great team. They're very personable, hands-on and responsive.”

Work highlights Continued to advise Nodal Exchange on a broad range of immigration issues, including H-1B cases, labor certification matters and green card applications.

Acted for Inova to handle a J-1 audit by the Department of State and assisted with I-9 compliance matters.

Notable practitioners

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.”

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 Filed a number of successful L-1A petitions for senior employees of US Core Holdings; affiliate company in Taiwan.

Acted for Apollo Education Group to file numerous H-1B petitions, with most cases being approved in record time.

Notable practitioners

Lisa Spiegel focuses her practice on immigration and nationality law, and is highly rated for her handling of a range of business immigration matters, including L-1A and H-1B petitions and Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) certification. Sources praise her as “an astute, thorough lawyer and a solution provider.”

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.

Work highlights Has represented Inova in all immigration work on behalf of the company.

Notable practitioners

Denyse Sabagh is referred to as “a rockstar in the field” by market sources. She offers significant experience advising an array of clients on immigration matters. She is noted for her abilities in criminal prosecution issues as well complex visa processes. One client reports: “The quality of her work and service has always been of top quality,” with another adding: “There's no immigration question she can't answer.”

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 A source praises: “The firm has an excellent trial team. They are definitely a go-to practice group for high-value and complex disputes.”

Work highlights Represented Indian Harbor Insurance in a coverage dispute Pitzer College. The matter involved remediation costs of work carried out by the policyholder without notice or consent of the insurer.

Notable practitioners

Philip Matthews has a wide breadth of expertise across insurance coverage matters. He offers notable experience handling healthcare, asbestos and environmental liability matters.

Head of the firm's insurance practice Max Stern has considerable experience handling insurance disputes. He has notable expertise in environmental and professional liability matters. A source describes him as a “very worthy adversary who obtains good results.”

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 Sources say: “They are absolutely first class; they have very strong litigation and negotiation skills, and recognize when it is right to compromise.”

A commentator describes the firm as a “litigation powerhouse.”

Work highlights Acted for Liberty Mutual in a case involving insurance coverage issues relating to OCIP coverage, alleged California Business and Profession Code 17200 violations, application of deductibles, and number of occurrences on multiple large construction sites.

Represented Safety National in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) coverage case, a dispute over underlying coverage for various sexual molestation claims.

Notable practitioners

Philip Matthews is recognized as a leading figure in California insurance law. He is particularly renowned for his asbestos claims work, with a source describing him as the “fount of all knowledge” in the area. Possessed of significant courtroom experience, he is highly valued for his ability as a negotiator.

Andrew Gordon Andrew Gordon is a long-time specialist in insurance litigation and has notable expertise in asbestos and environmental coverage work. He is also experienced in handling the insurance-related aspects of bankruptcy disputes in overseas markets. Clients appreciate his ability to “navigate tricky situations effectively.”

Max Stern is recognized for his strong insurance litigation practice. His areas of expertise include regulatory and bad faith law. Peers have found him to be a “very effective counterpart in reaching conclusions.”

Ray Wong handles contentious insurance matters including asbestos and professional liability claims. He has also worked on breach of contract and bankruptcy-related cases. A source describes him as “very thorough, with an instinctive understanding of what needs to be done.”

Texas

Alex Gonzales of Duane Morris LLP is “a class act and an amazing subject matter counselor,” according to market sources. He regularly advises insurers and insurance groups on a range of commercial and regulatory matters. Another source says: “Alex has provided excellent representation based on his comprehensive knowledge of insurance matters.”

Georgia

What the team is known for Recognized for its experience acting for technology companies in contentious proceedings, including patent infringement disputes. Frequently sought out to assist with cases initiated by non-practicing entities. 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 A client says the team is “incredibly efficient and responsive,” adding: “We get great value and great results with them.”

Work highlights Defended Belkin against a patent infringement claim by Apple regarding the design of its lightning cable adapter.

Acted for Capita in a trade secrets misappropriation dispute initiated by Encore Technologies.

Notable practitioners

Louis Jameson is a “great first chair lawyer” who has a wealth of trial experience. He centers his practice on high-value patent litigation involving telecommunications companies. He offers additional strength for contentious copyright, trademark and trade dress proceedings.

Matthew Gaudet is a litigator who is regularly engaged to handle high-value patent infringement proceedings involving household name tech companies. Clients say: “He is very good at managing cases, developing the facts and evidence and matching it to support your defense.”

Robin McGrath is an “an exceptional lawyer with an incredible amount of experience.” She focuses her practice on hi-tech patent litigation and is distinguished for her depth of fintech technical expertise.

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 Sources state that Duane Morris is an “excellent firm” with a “strong team of highly skilled lawyers and staff.”

Work highlights Represented Express Homebuyers USA in a trademark dispute against WBH Marketing revolving around the generic nature of the marketing phrase ‘We Buy Houses.‘

Defended startup technology company Biobots against a trademark infringement and anti-cybersquatting suit brought by a competitor with regard to the design and development of a desktop 3D printer used to build living biological tissue.

Notable practitioners

The “highly respected” David Wolfsohn is an accomplished trial lawyer experienced in representing clients in high-value IP disputes concerning copyright infringement and trade secrets matters. His clients include companies in the financial, biotechnology and healthcare sectors.

Aleksander Goranin is a patent litigator adept in representing companies in high-value IP litigation concerning major scientific and technological devices. In addition to patent infringement, he also has notable expertise in noncompete and trade secrets issues.

Peter Cronk has wide experience advising clients across an array of IP matters including both the procurement and litigation of patents. He also assists with related issues concerning technology licensing and unfair competition.

Florida

Michael Casey of Duane Morris LLP represents clients in discrimination claims, trade secret and noncompete issues, among other matters. Sources say he is “an excellent attorney and extremely knowledgeable.”

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Offers comprehensive coverage across a range of employment, immigration and benefit plans matters. Draws from a deep and 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 Sources say: “They're very practical and they understand how companies actually work, as opposed to how they should work in textbooks.”

Clients say: “They're tremendously cost-conscious and their work product is right the first time.”

Work highlights Advised SKF on the amendment and restatement of its defined benefit pension plans.

Retained by Unilife on employment issues arising from its bankruptcy, including advising on the termination of its 401(k) plan and health and welfare plans.

Notable practitioners

John A. Nixon is described as a “great personality to work with” by clients, who value his “excellent communication skills” and “fast turnaround times.” He offers experience advising executives, sponsors and providers on a broad range of pension and retirement programs.

The “fantastic” Thomas Servodidio garners praise for his “tremendously deep legal expertise” and his “balanced perspective” in complex labor law matters. Clients count upon his three decades of experience and considerable strengths in contract issues, labor relations work and a broad spectrum of litigation and arbitration proceedings.

Jonathan Segal is proficient in a wide variety of employment law matters, including wage and hour claims, hiring and termination processes and employee training issues. Clients highlight his “timely and thoughtful” approach, and offer notable praise for his ability to “balance legal and ethical issues.”

California

George D. Niespolo of Duane Morris LLP has a strong reputation as a collaborative attorney, as well as a “smart and very strategic lawyer.” He has demonstrated these qualities in some of the most important matters in the field, with strengths in areas including healthcare fraud, antitrust claims and FCA cases. Peers say: “He can bring people together and reach consensus on defense strategy.”

Eastern 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. Particularly recognized for its representation of clients in the life sciences, technology and financial sectors.

Work highlights Defended SAP America in a patent infringement matter relating to a method and system for uniform resource locator transformation.

Defended Wright Medical Technology in a product liability matter relating to allegations from a plaintiff that the metal-on-metal hip implant products he received were unreasonably dangerous.

Notable practitioners

John Soroko is the firm's chair and CEO and is a seasoned trial and appellate lawyer with a wealth of experience in commercial disputes. His counsel is sought on class actions and professional liability matters, as well as securities disputes.

Matthew Taylor is highly prized by clients, who regard him as a “superstar and a great attorney.” Peers are equally complimentary, describing him as a “top lawyer in the market.” He boasts a wealth of experience on complex commercial disputes, including product liability and antitrust cases.

Michael Mustokoff is highly acclaimed as a trial lawyer and is valued by clients for his experience of white-collar crime litigation. He is particularly adept at assisting on fraudulent insurance cases, RICO claims and wider regulatory proceedings

New Jersey

Eric Breslin of Duane Morris LLP possesses a versatile practice, engaging in white-collar criminal defense work and complex commercial litigation. He is described by a client as “an exceptional lawyer and litigator, possessing excellent judgment and great trial skills.”

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.

Strengths “They are very professional and sharp. They have the resources and talent to bring a thoughtful solution to any problem that arises. They are diligent and always prompt in returning calls,” one happy client comments.

Another interviewee remarks: “Their team has vast experience in real estate which allows them to do things much more efficiently than other firms that we have used.”

Work highlights Assisted LNR Partners in the simultaneous loan sale and deed in lieu of a foreclosure transaction.

Notable practitioners

David Augustin is frequently sought out for his vast experience of commercial real estate transactions, including financing, sales, leasing and development mandates. One client reports: “He has never missed a deadline and his work product is exceptional and extraordinarily professional. He is the best real estate attorney that I have worked with.”

Nationwide

Thomas W. Ostrander of Duane Morris LLP has an “excellent reputation” in the tax fraud arena. Clients say: “Tom's relationship and credibility with the IRS is exceptional, and he is very intelligent, knowledgeable and experienced.”

Florida

William Rohrer of Duane Morris LLP has considerable experience advising domestic and foreign clients on a range of international tax matters. His clients include investment funds, closely held companies and multinational corporations.

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.

Strengths One client considers Duane Morris to be “truly one of the best firms I have worked with.”

Work highlights Advised Diamond Offshore Drilling regarding a $500 million debt offering.

Notable practitioners

Hope Krebs is described as “a critical thinker” who provides “useful and practical solutions” to complex tax issues. She comes recommended for her handling of a broad range of cross-border transactions, including credit facility negotiations and restructurings.

What the team is known for An accomplished team of practitioners in Yangon, ably supported by the team in Singapore. 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.

Strengths Client commentary indicates a high-quality service, with one interviewee stating: “They have a good reputation and I trust in their professionalism. Client service is excellent and I believe they are easy to work with and do a good job. They are fast in response and there are not too many layers to deal with.”

Work highlights Acting for Sembcorp Utilities as sponsor in the development and financing of the 225 MW gas-fired power plant in Myingyan.

Assisted Emirates Airlines with the establishment of a legal entity in Myanmar and provision of tax advice.

Notable practitioners

Krishna Ramachandra is a key contact for clients.

Capital Markets - Singapore

Gerard A. Hekker of Duane Morris & Selvam LLP is known for his expertise on Indonesia-related transactions and has recently advised XL Axiata on its USD510 million rights offering of securities.

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.

Krishna Ramachandra impresses clients with “the personal touch that he brings to the deal,” one explaining that he “spends a considerable amount of time ensuring that I understand the deal and am comfortable with the outcome, which I truly appreciate.” Recently he advised H I-Analysis, a digital forensic and electronic discovery service provider, on its SGD3 million acquisition by Deloitte Southeast Asia.

Gerard A. Hekker is known for his significant expertise in matters with Indonesian elements. He regularly advises on both capital markets and M&A matters in sectors including telecoms, finance and resources.

Ute Mueller of Duane Morris LLP is admitted to practice in Germany and England and Wales, and works in the firm's London office. Fluent in German, English and French, she advises clients on cross-border transactions with a heavy German angle, and assisted OLS Holdings with its acquisition of subsidiaries and other assets based in the UK, France, Germany and the US.

Michael W. Casey of Duane Morris LLP is recognised for his strength in the traditional labour law space. Peers acknowledge him as “a fantastic lawyer.”

Denyse Sabagh is the head of the firm's immigration practice group, and is “well known and well regarded in the immigration Bar.” One source says: “She is one of the top in the field.” Offering extensive experience advising on I-9 audit cases, consular processing and immigration issues stemming from criminal cases, Sabagh represents both business clients and individuals.

Miles Plaskett is based in the Miami office of Duane Morris LLP. A native of the US Virgin Islands, he has developed a considerable practice assisting clients with the financing aspects of significant energy and infrastructure matters in the territory, with a strong track record representing utilities providers such as the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority. He is well regarded by lawyers in the jurisdiction.

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. Clients include local and South-East Asian investors, and a number of Japanese and European companies. Regularly acts for businesses in the food and drink, automotive, banking and media industries. Giles Cooper is a key contact at the firm.

Oliver Massmann of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC has over 20 years' experience advising on power project issues. Clients say that “his knowledge on energy and electricity is excellent.” He recently advised the GreenCells Group on implementing solar power plants in Vietnam.

What the team is known for An accomplished team of practitioners in Yangon, ably supported by the team in Singapore. 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.

Strengths Client commentary indicates a high-quality service, with one interviewee stating: “They have a good reputation and I trust in their professionalism. Client service is excellent and I believe they are easy to work with and do a good job. They are fast in response and there are not too many layers to deal with.”

Work highlights Acting for Sembcorp Utilities as sponsor in the development and financing of the 225 MW gas-fired power plant in Myingyan.

Assisted Emirates Airlines with the establishment of a legal entity in Myanmar and provision of tax advice.

Notable practitioners

Krishna Ramachandra is a key contact for clients.

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.

Strengths Client interviewees praise the consistent service provided, one noting the team “is very responsive and understanding of my needs.”

Clients also praise the firm's coverage in the wider region, noting it “has done a good job of building out the regional network and areas of specialisation.”

Work highlights Advised Southern Coast Ventures as shareholder in Smart Axiata regarding Axiata Group's USD900 million sale of a 10% stake in Axiata (Cambodia) Holdings to M&Y Asia Telecom Holdings and Mitsui.

Acted as Singapore legal counsel to a Japanese designer and manufacturer of medical equipment on its proposed acquisition of two Singapore companies involved in the renovation and maintenance of hospitals.

Notable practitioners

Krishna Ramachandra impresses clients with “the personal touch that he brings to the deal,” one explaining that he “spends a considerable amount of time ensuring that I understand the deal and am comfortable with the outcome, which I truly appreciate.” Recently he advised H I-Analysis, a digital forensic and electronic discovery service provider, on its SGD3 million acquisition by Deloitte Southeast Asia.

Gerard A. Hekker of Duane Morris & Selvam LLP is known for both his capital markets and M&A work in sectors including telecoms, finance and resources. He recently advised XL Axiata on its USD510 million rights offering of equity securities under Rule 144A and Regulation S.

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. Clients include local and South-East Asian investors, and a number of Japanese and European companies. Regularly acts for businesses in the food and drink, automotive, banking and media industries.

Work highlights Acted for Ibibo Group on establishing a subsidiary of redBus, its bus ticketing business.

Advised Tui Travel Accommodation on the establishment of a joint venture in Vietnam.

Notable practitioners

Giles Cooper is a key point of contact.

Oliver Massmann of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC has over 20 years' experience advising on power project issues. Clients say that “his knowledge on energy and electricity is excellent.” He recently advised the GreenCells Group on implementing solar power plants in Vietnam.

Ute Mueller of Duane Morris LLP is dual-qualified in the UK and Germany and offers excellent abilities in Anglo-German transactional work, particularly in the commodities sector. Sources point to her “very methodical approach" and “good attention to detail in drafting" as valuable attributes.