America's Leading Lawyers for Business 2005: Private Equity (Buyouts & Venture Capital Investment)
Chambers & Partners has compiled their independent and objective list of America's Leading Lawyers for Business based on comments gathered from thousands of interviews with clients and lawyers from Maine to Hawaii. This guide -- which is designed to reflect market opinion -- contains a view of the firms and attorneys who are considered leaders in their field.
In Chambers' 2005 review of national legal talent in the area of "Private Equity: Buyouts & Venture Capital Investment," our Firm and our lawyers are listed among the best in the country.
Chambers' comments:
New York Ranking: 2
The Firm: Clients pointed to this firm's vast national and international presence in the private equity arena, where it has developed a "vibrant, strong practice." The New York-based team is especially busy and continues to go from strength to strength, taking its impetus from the firm's traditional heartland of Chicago. The presence of heavy hitters such as Kirk Radke and Stephen Fraidin attracts clients, while the resources provided by this team and the seven offices across the USA and overseas ensure their loyalty. Clients described a group that is "extremely knowledgeable, up to date on current practices," and able to field "talented, experienced, professionals." While some commentators felt that the firm adopts an aggressive approach to the negotiating table, other clients appreciated the responsive client-focused service on offer.
The Lawyers: Rainmaker Stephen Fraidin, renowned for his relationship with Forstmann Little, is a key player in the New York market. He recently advised this marquee client on the acquisition of International Management Group. He is a "classic M&A lawyer" who is equally adept in the private equity arena. Kirk Radke is a "terrific business adviser," who possesses deep LBO experience and the rare ability to also turn his hand to fund formation. He represented Bain Capital on the $550 million acquisition of the North American phosphates business of Rhodia SA.
The Clients: Bain Capital; Citigroup Venture Capital; Merrill Lynch Private Equity Group; Catterton Partners; Vestar Capital Partners; Centennial Ventures and Sun Capital Partners.