The World's Leading Lawyers for Business 2011: Bankruptcy/Restructuring
On an annual basis, Chambers & Partners conducts extensive research and thorough data analysis in compiling its objective list of talent available at the highest level of international legal practice. Its research methodology has been independently audited and confirmed to be thorough, robust and complete.
In Chambers' 2011 review of international legal talent in the area of Bankruptcy/Restructuring, our Firm is listed among the best in the world.
Chambers' comments:
Global Ranking: Tier 1
The Firm: This firm is best known for its leading position in the US market and its presence in the UK. The quality of its practice group and its reputation make it a top choice for cross-border work, with restructuring lawyers based in the Chicago, New York, London, Munich and Hong Kong offices. The firm is particularly praised for its company-side work and also represents lenders in complex corporate restructurings, workouts and bankruptcy planning, providing both advisory and litigation support. The firm represented The Reader's Digest Association in its financial restructuring and emergence from prearranged Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Sources say: "Doing a tremendous job."
Key Individuals: Richard Cieri and James Sprayregen are leading figures for restructuring and insolvency work and split their time between New York and Chicago.
USA Ranking: Tier 1
The "strategic, confident and decisive" Richard Cieri represents major corporations, debtors and boards of directors in cross-border and domestic matters. This market-leading attorney represented Chemtura in its Chapter 11 reorganisation. Chicago-based James Sprayregen has strong experience in international work. In a notable example, he counselled Japan Airlines on the restructuring of its global operations and advised on Chapter 15 cases.
Europe-wide Ranking: Tier 3
The Firm: Although its European presence is limited to the UK and Germany, this high-class firm is a first choice for complex restructurings, especially where US elements are concerned. Other strengths often cited are its private equity and investment funds practice, and related restructuring services. The firm focuses on high-profile and multi-jurisdictional cases, with the London and Munich teams often working seamlessly together. Recent highlights have included advising on the restructurings of Monier, IMO Carwash and European Directories.
Sources say: "This firm is fantastically good – a bit of a hidden gem. It is highly specialised in restructurings."
Key Individuals: Kon Asimacopoulos and Partha Kar are the London-based co-heads of the European practice. Bernd Meyer-Löwy and Leo Plank are the two dedicated partners in the Munich office.
Germany Ranking: Tier 3
Leo Plank is a well-regarded restructuring practitioner who is regularly instructed in international and cross-border mandates. He recently worked with the firm's London office to represent the senior lenders in the hostile restructuring of the Monier Group. Clients praise the ability of Bernd Meyer-Löwy to cut straight to the core of an issue. He advised Elpida Memory on the acquisition of technologies from the insolvent Qimonda.
Reprinted with permission from Chambers Global, The World's Leading Lawyers for Business 2011 — www.chambersandpartners.com.
