The World's Leading Lawyers for Business 2006: Corporate/M&A

On an annual basis, Chambers Global conducts extensive research and thorough data analysis in compiling their objective list of legal talent available at the highest level of international legal practice.  Their research methodology has been independently audited and confirmed to be thorough, robust and complete.

In Chambers’ 2006 review of international legal talent in the area of “Corporate/M&A,” our Firm ranked third.

Chambers Comments:

USA
Ranking: 3

The Firm: A firm with 1,100 lawyers in locations across the USA and Europe, this firm is said to reign supreme for a private equity practice unanimously recognized as "second to none," while strength in corporate finance, M&A and public company matters is also in evidence.  Clients told researchers the attorneys "give high-quality advice and high-quality service across the board."

The Lawyers: Jack Levin remains "a legend in his own time."  Known far and wide as the practice's "guru," Levin is revered among interviewees as "the godfather of venture capital in the Midwest."  He acted in First Data's acquisition of Concord EFS and worked on numerous acquisitions and fund formations for Madison Dearborn, Willis Stein, Code Hennessy & Simmons, GTCR Golder Rauner and other private equity funds.  Jon Ballis recently joined the firm from Sidley Austin Brown & Wood.  He has been responsible for structuring and closing numerous buyout and private equity-related transactions, including a $6 billion strategic merger in a paper and packaging industry and a $560 million strategic acquisition in the food industry.  Kevin Evanich attracts admiration from rivals who hold him up to be "at the top of his game."  Private equity work forms most of his practice.  Evanich represented Code Hennessy & Simmons in its acquisition of AMF Bowling Worldwide.  Star player Stephen Fraidin "has to be on anyone's list," commentators said.  He represented Forstmann Little & Co in its $750 million acquisition of International Management Group and $1.6 billion acquisition of 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide.