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The comprehensive guide to the world's leading tax firms

Baker & McKenzie is repeatedly praised by market observers for its strength in tax controversy. James O'Brien and Mark Oates are both highlighted in this area. The firm's tax practice comprises about 40 people; the practice is sound. Gregg Lemein is ... [more]

Baker & McKenzie is repeatedly praised by market observers for its strength in tax controversy. James O'Brien and Mark Oates are both highlighted in this area. The firm's tax practice comprises about 40 people; the practice is sound. Gregg Lemein is frequently referred to as a leader for tax services in the region. With an in-house team of economists the firm is well placed to offer clients assistance with transfer pricing matters. Clients of the firm come from every sector of industry.

Deloitte is adapting well to the different economic conditions faced this year, offering clients timely advice in supply chain management and restructuring, for example. The firm's client list encompasses the best known companies in every major industry ... [more]

Deloitte is adapting well to the different economic conditions faced this year, offering clients timely advice in supply chain management and restructuring, for example. The firm's client list encompasses the best known companies in every major industry , who come to the group for tax advice in all service lines, including planning, transfer pricing and dispute resolution. The firm made two significant additions to the team in Chicago this year.

Ernst & Young saw its revenue grow 15% and the tax group headcount grew 5% this year, both impressive figures, given the market. The firm has more than 150 tax professionals in international tax in the Midwest area with 110 in Chicago. The firm's successful ... [more]

Ernst & Young saw its revenue grow 15% and the tax group headcount grew 5% this year, both impressive figures, given the market. The firm has more than 150 tax professionals in international tax in the Midwest area with 110 in Chicago. The firm's successful foreign desks initiative sees Chicago play host to the lead Netherlands and Luxembourg desks. Given the change in economic circumstances the tax group has been helping clients with accessing cash around the world and finding ways to bring it back to the US without paying significant taxes. The firm has seen transfer pricing growing recently with a new principal being added in this area, Colleen Warner. Chicago is a manufacturing base in the US, meaning work relating to China is very active, both inbound and outbound, and a lot of business restructuring is going on in this field with clients shutting factories and so on. The firm has also seen an uptick in controversies and advance pricing agreements are in demand.

The firm reports seeing a lot of audit activity relating to intangibles, with many audit initiatives coming from abroad, Japan and Canada in particular. Private equity has slowed down but strategic transactions are still strong. Another key area for the firm is helping clients with preparing for proposed changes to the tax regime.

Kirkland & Ellis has "a wonderful tax practice, very transaction oriented", according to one competitor. The firm added one partner and two associates in the Chicago office in the last 12 months. The 25-strong team is distinguished by two diverse strengths: ... [more]

Kirkland & Ellis has "a wonderful tax practice, very transaction oriented", according to one competitor. The firm added one partner and two associates in the Chicago office in the last 12 months. The 25-strong team is distinguished by two diverse strengths: private equity leveraged buyouts (fund formations, as well as the deals that come out of those funds) and bankruptcies. The firm also has a prominent tax litigation practice and has handled an array of matters for clients. The firm provides tax advice to a broad range of clients including private equity firm Madison Dearborn Partners, General Motors, Tenet Healthcare, Northwest Airlines and telecommunications carrier Qwest Communications. One impressive piece of work handled by the firm this year was representing Hyatt Hotels in the acquisition by Hyatt of the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Hotel from its previous Japanese owners. The hotel acquisition was effected through two simultaneous bankruptcy proceedings, one in Hawaii and the other in Tokyo. Kirkland proposed an innovative tax structure that involved multiple separate asset and stock acquisitions. The IRS gave a favourable ruling on the transaction. Because of the multiple bankruptcy proceedings, the transaction took more than two years to accomplish, finally closing in July 2008, cancelling nearly $7 billion in debt.

Mayer Brown counts many large manufacturing companies as clients, who have, of course, been hurt by downturn. This means the tax group has had to offer restructuring advice as well as continuing to assist with day to day needs and business changes. Alan ... [more]

Mayer Brown counts many large manufacturing companies as clients, who have, of course, been hurt by downturn. This means the tax group has had to offer restructuring advice as well as continuing to assist with day to day needs and business changes. Alan Van Dyke was a private equity partner at the firm who this year moved to Latham & Watkins. The firm has added six associates over the last 12 months showing considerable growth in challenging times. The firm's controversy practice remains buoyant and overall the firm reports strong business across its tax group. There has been a noticeable shift in the nature of the transactional work, which is now less focused on M&A and instead features more internal planning and foreign tax credit planning work. The firm represented ACE Limited, a global insurance and reinsurance organisation, in its migration from the Cayman Islands to Switzerland, a transaction worth $19 billion. The group also represented Wells Fargo Bank in a case concerning the tax treatment of leveraged leases of transit equipment and technical equipment, which is a hotly contested area of law that potentially affects the entire leasing industry in the US, demonstrating the level of controversy the firm handles.

Lowell Yoder at McDermott Will & Emery is repeatedly described a "true leader" in the Chicago market. "He is exceptional, absolutely top tier," says one admiring competitor. The firm added three associates to the tax group this year. The well respected ... [more]

Lowell Yoder at McDermott Will & Emery is repeatedly described a "true leader" in the Chicago market. "He is exceptional, absolutely top tier," says one admiring competitor. The firm added three associates to the tax group this year. The well respected practice in both transactions and controversy has been busy. The firm provides first class advice in all areas of corporate taxation, with corporate restructuring being particularly in demand this year.

The tax team at PricewaterhouseCoopers has been kept extremely busy advising impressive clients in all genre of tax matters in the last year. The firm has a large group in Chicago that is equipped to deal with any tax question.

At Latham & Watkins, Stephen Bowen is called "an exceptional corporate tax lawyer" by a market observer, while tax controversy specialist Roger Jones (formerly with Mayer Brown) is said to be "terrific, very knowledgeable". In the last 12 months the ... [more]

At Latham & Watkins, Stephen Bowen is called "an exceptional corporate tax lawyer" by a market observer, while tax controversy specialist Roger Jones (formerly with Mayer Brown) is said to be "terrific, very knowledgeable". In the last 12 months the firm has been very busy, for example advising on the acquisition of Smith Investment Company, a multi-colour printing, commercial warehousing and packaging company, by AO Smith Corporation using a tax-free exchange and also representing the Kroger Company before the US Tax Court in the consolidated cases of Ralph's Grocery Company v Commissioner and Fred Meyer v Commissioner. These cases addressed the determination of the IRS that a transaction conducted in the Federated Stores bankruptcy and structured by the taxpayer as a qualified stock purchase defined in Internal Revenue Code section 338(d)(3), was in substance a reorganisation defined in code section 368(a), thereby disqualifying the election made by the taxpayer.

One client speaks highly of Bowen and Diana Doyle who "in addition to outstanding technical skills, know what it means to take their client's business personally and how to engage their client at a commercial level, they are always prepared to be creative and work with us to figure out what can be done".

There are 18 professionals involved in the Sidley Austin Brown & Wood tax practice in Chicago. The firm offers clients advice in federal, state and international tax services in a wide range of areas, including M&A, spin-offs, financial transactions, ... [more]

There are 18 professionals involved in the Sidley Austin Brown & Wood tax practice in Chicago. The firm offers clients advice in federal, state and international tax services in a wide range of areas, including M&A, spin-offs, financial transactions, securitisation and structured finance, derivatives, private equity funds, hedge funds, joint ventures, mortgage and asset-backed securities, reorganisations, real estate investment trusts and regulated investment companies, cross-border transactions, tax controversies, tax planning and legislative and regulatory developments.

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom Skadden has a "superstar" in David Polster, according to one market observer. In the last 12 months the firm advised Access Industries, the 100% owner of LyondellBasell Industries, in the worldwide reorganisation of ... [more]

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom Skadden has a "superstar" in David Polster, according to one market observer. In the last 12 months the firm advised Access Industries, the 100% owner of LyondellBasell Industries, in the worldwide reorganisation of LyondellBasell and its hundreds of affiliates. LyondellBasell is one of the largest chemical manufacturers in the world with operations across the globe, meaning the transaction involves the negotiation and restructuring of multiple new and pre-existing cross-border financing structures that involve borrowers in no fewer than six countries.

The firm has special expertise in handling Australian inbound investment work becouse advisers at the firm wrote the treaty provision between Australia and US via which the transactions happen. The firm's restructuring group is doing very well and the group has dealt with the tax issues involved in several big bankruptcies. The firm also assisted Fresenius, a health care company in Germany, in its $5.6 billion acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals, a provider of pharmaceutical products, a notable transaction because it was completed in just two months.

Katten Muchin Rosenman provides proficient, creative tax advice and planning to coincide with the firm's clients' business plans. The firm advises on a variety of transactions, including M&A, leveraged buyouts, recapitalisations, international, tax-free ... [more]

Katten Muchin Rosenman provides proficient, creative tax advice and planning to coincide with the firm's clients' business plans. The firm advises on a variety of transactions, including M&A, leveraged buyouts, recapitalisations, international, tax-free reorganisations, spin-offs, liquidations, real estate purchases, developments, financing for sales and purchases and sales of financial derivatives.

Ceteris continues to expand across the US. In Chicago Christopher Desmond is highly praised by one satisfied client who notes the work done as "extremely detailed with a complex model," adding that Desmond and his team "have done an excellent job".

Baker Botts remains a leader in the Houston and Dallas marketplace. The firm added eight associates from top law schools in the last 12 months. The tax group advised Transocean, the world's largest offshore drilling company in connection with its completion ... [more]

Baker Botts remains a leader in the Houston and Dallas marketplace. The firm added eight associates from top law schools in the last 12 months. The tax group advised Transocean, the world's largest offshore drilling company in connection with its completion of a merger by way of schemes of arrangement under Cayman Islands law that effectively changed the place of incorporation of the parent holding company of the Transocean group of companies from the Cayman Islands to Switzerland. The firm also assisted Liberty Media in a complex deal with DIRECTV which will see DIRECTV Group merge with Liberty Entertainment, a company to be split off from Liberty Media.

Deloitte is recognised as particularly good in transfer pricing in this market, although the firm offers a full range of services to clients. The firm's client list encompasses the largest companies from all over the world who need advice with complex ... [more]

Deloitte is recognised as particularly good in transfer pricing in this market, although the firm offers a full range of services to clients. The firm's client list encompasses the largest companies from all over the world who need advice with complex tax matters. The firm made six significant hires this year bolstering all the firm's major service lines in both Houston and Dallas.

At Ernst & Young, the Houston and Dallas international tax practices are best known for their strength in transaction planning, transfer pricing and international customs and trade. The firm has seen a surge in demand for international compliance services ... [more]

At Ernst & Young, the Houston and Dallas international tax practices are best known for their strength in transaction planning, transfer pricing and international customs and trade. The firm has seen a surge in demand for international compliance services this year and both offices have been busy helping clients get to grips with the Obama administration proposals. The firm's Houston office has a strong focus on the energy sector with a well established oilfield coalition to provide clients a forum for exchanging insights and ideas coordinated by the firm. There have been some internal moves at the firm this year, with Lee Cleland heading into a broader national role and Paul Palmer assuming the role of the international tax services subarea leader for the Southwest. The group has outstanding transfer pricing capabilities with Mark Camp, the Southwest area transfer pricing leader and US transfer pricing leader, Purvez Captain, both based in Houston. The leadership of the firm's customs and international trade practice is based in Dallas and assists clients across the country with tax planning and management of import and export customs duties, excise taxes and related trade processes.

Fulbright & Jaworski's national reputation for federal, state, and local tax matters is spreading to international matters also with Andrius Kontrimas seen in the market as "gradually building a deeper international practice," evidenced by the addition ... [more]

Fulbright & Jaworski's national reputation for federal, state, and local tax matters is spreading to international matters also with Andrius Kontrimas seen in the market as "gradually building a deeper international practice," evidenced by the addition of five new associates this year. New partner William Bowers is described as "outstanding", by a competitor. This year the firm advised manufacturing group Quanex Corporation in a complex spin-off and merger transaction. The tax team also represented Guaranty Financial Group, of Guaranty Bank, on the tax consequences of raising new capital.

PricewaterhouseCoopers admitted Jim Ginty to partnership this year. The firm provides a wide range of tax services to clients from all over the world and is active in all industries. The firm has this year dealt with the redomiciliation of an inverted ... [more]

PricewaterhouseCoopers admitted Jim Ginty to partnership this year. The firm provides a wide range of tax services to clients from all over the world and is active in all industries. The firm has this year dealt with the redomiciliation of an inverted company to Switzerland, it was a tricky situation with the threat of legal action overhanging the process. Another interesting project involved developing an inbound US leasing strategy for a client working in a capital intensive industry. Members of the tax group also managed to build a holding company structure which allowed for tax efficient repatriation of profits for a client.

Vinson & Elkins added two new associates to the firm's well respected group. The firm represented Norwegian energy company StatoilHydro in connection with several matters including its $3.3 billion transaction with Chesapeake Energy Corporation involving ... [more]

Vinson & Elkins added two new associates to the firm's well respected group. The firm represented Norwegian energy company StatoilHydro in connection with several matters including its $3.3 billion transaction with Chesapeake Energy Corporation involving the acquisition of an interest in 1.8 million acres of undeveloped natural-gas properties and a related joint development arrangement and also the company's purchase from Anadarko of $1.5 billion of oil and gas properties offshore Brazil. The group also advised Hudson Advisors in connection with the formation of Lone Star Fund VI and the investment of its $7.5 billion in capital, an interesting engagement because it involved the investment by the fund in distressed assets.

Andrews Kurth has a tax group of 22 people. The firm is very strong in the energy industry, a prowess well recognised by competitors. Highly recommended individuals Thomas Ford and Robert McNamara were this year involved in Enterprise Products Partners ... [more]

Andrews Kurth has a tax group of 22 people. The firm is very strong in the energy industry, a prowess well recognised by competitors. Highly recommended individuals Thomas Ford and Robert McNamara were this year involved in Enterprise Products Partners acquisition of Teppco, the transaction will create the largest publicly traded midstream energy partnership. The same advisers led Williams Companies through the formation of a joint venture with Atlas Pipeline Partner.

Baker & McKenzie has "a particularly strong international group", according to a market observer. The team this year assisted Weatherford, an international oilfield services company, with the redomiciliation of its once Bermuda publicly traded company ... [more]

Baker & McKenzie has "a particularly strong international group", according to a market observer. The team this year assisted Weatherford, an international oilfield services company, with the redomiciliation of its once Bermuda publicly traded company to Switzerland. Leading individual Susan Stone was part of the group that gave a tax opinion on the capital lease of a drill ship involving a Brazilian state owned oil company, a Japan-Brazil consortium, a Cayman Islands purchaser and an Africa operating company, demonstrating the firm's ability to handle even the most complex international matters.

Gardere Wynne Sewell invested significantly in its transfer pricing capabilities this year, bringing in a senior economist and another experienced transfer pricing practitioner. Two associates were also added to the tax group. The firm is developing ... [more]

Gardere Wynne Sewell invested significantly in its transfer pricing capabilities this year, bringing in a senior economist and another experienced transfer pricing practitioner. Two associates were also added to the tax group. The firm is developing particular expertise in US-Japan matters; this year the group represented a client in a US-Japan competent authority and advance pricing agreement matter that involved $500 million in Japanese assessments. Advisers from the firm also represented NASDAQ MNE in successfully settling a tax sharing agreement dispute with its former NYSE parent corporation.

The arrival of John Woodruff at KPMG boosted the firm. "He is an outstanding international tax and M&A adviser", says a competitor. The firm is recognised as strong on complex transactional matters, especially in international matters.

Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell this year represented Belo Corporation, one of the largest media companies in the US, in connection with the spin-off of its newspaper publishing business. At the time of the spin-off, the company owned 20 television stations ... [more]

Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell this year represented Belo Corporation, one of the largest media companies in the US, in connection with the spin-off of its newspaper publishing business. At the time of the spin-off, the company owned 20 television stations located across the US and three newspapers, making this a complex transaction. Continuing the strong energy industry trend among firms in this region, advisers from the firm represented Bois d'Arc Energy in connection with its merger into a subsidiary of Stone Energy Corporation. The firm added one partner and one associate this year to a tax group that is well known as strong in regulatory work and acquisitions advice. With the lack of financing available there have, of course, been fewer major transactions, but the firm has been involved in transactions that have arisen out of bankruptcy situations and remains busy.

Thompson & Knight is said to be "outstanding in Dallas", by market commentators. The addition of Roger Aksamit from Bracewell Giuliani is seen as a considerable boost to the group. The firm is strong in many fields of tax advice and maintains a strong ... [more]

Thompson & Knight is said to be "outstanding in Dallas", by market commentators. The addition of Roger Aksamit from Bracewell Giuliani is seen as a considerable boost to the group. The firm is strong in many fields of tax advice and maintains a strong reputation in this region.

Bracewell & Giuliani does a lot of international work for oil and gas clients. One impressive example is the work the firm will be doing for Canadian Royal Trust, which recently announced the building of a new pipeline from Alaska down to Chicago. BP ... [more]

Bracewell & Giuliani does a lot of international work for oil and gas clients. One impressive example is the work the firm will be doing for Canadian Royal Trust, which recently announced the building of a new pipeline from Alaska down to Chicago. BP and Chevron are also clients. In the last 12 months the team also assisted private equity clients doing acquisitions in the Middle East. The firm added partner Jim Reardon this year, who arrived with a strong and loyal client list. "Jim is awesome," says one client. "He is very creative and his service is impeccable. The creativity speaks to his knowledge regarding many tax treaties around the world and coming up with an effective solution in an efficient manner." The firm aims to add two other new partners by the end of the year.

Haynes & Boone saw Paul Dickerson return to the firm after a stint in government. He now heads a clean energy tax practice at the firm, which is already seeing a lot of business as traditional oil and gas clients expand their renewables work. The firm ... [more]

Haynes & Boone saw Paul Dickerson return to the firm after a stint in government. He now heads a clean energy tax practice at the firm, which is already seeing a lot of business as traditional oil and gas clients expand their renewables work. The firm notes an increase in work on bankruptcies and restructurings this year, although the investment fund practice is also doing well and litigation is booming. Real estate tax work has dipped in the last year, although the firm still regards is as a big portion of its business. The group this year formed and advised an international investment fund on structuring the acquisition of investments in the US, Russia and Asia. The team also represented a client in a complex recapitalisation, refinancing and restructuring matter involving capital stock, assets and indebtedness in numerous countries.

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld has four tax lawyers and three other professionals in its Dallas office, and one tax lawyer in Houston. The firm has been very busy in the last year advising numerous clients on a variety of business tax planning matters ... [more]

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld has four tax lawyers and three other professionals in its Dallas office, and one tax lawyer in Houston. The firm has been very busy in the last year advising numerous clients on a variety of business tax planning matters and also representing clients before the IRS and state taxing authorities. Advisers from the firm represented Alliance Data Systems in connection with the sale of its utility service business to Vertex, a global outsourcing firm, and in connection with the sale of Alliance Data Mail Services to Bowne. The firm also represented First Southwest Company, a financial advisory and investment banking firm, in its acquisition by PlainsCapital Corporation. Total equity of the combined entity was valued at $400 million.

Weil Gotshal & Manges added an associate to the group this year. The firm represented the special committee of NDS Group, a supplier of open end-to-end digital technology, in the $3.7 billion take-private of NDS by majority shareholder News Corporation ... [more]

Weil Gotshal & Manges added an associate to the group this year. The firm represented the special committee of NDS Group, a supplier of open end-to-end digital technology, in the $3.7 billion take-private of NDS by majority shareholder News Corporation and affiliates of Permira Advisers. Jared Rusman's practice encompasses all aspects of corporate and partnership tax matters, with particular emphasis on the tax aspects of private and public, domestic and cross-border mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, divestitures, spin-offs and split-offs.

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is assisting clients with refund opportunities, reviewing accounting methods, restructuring and automation work, among other things. The group also notes an uptick in controversy with both the state and federal government becoming ... [more]

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is assisting clients with refund opportunities, reviewing accounting methods, restructuring and automation work, among other things. The group also notes an uptick in controversy with both the state and federal government becoming more aggressive.

Transfer pricing boutique Ceteris added to its group this year with two new practitioners. The firm continues to build market recognition and is already attracting impressive clients.

Chamberlain Hrdlicka White Williams & Martin this year advised several offshore businesses in transfer pricing matters. The addition of one new associate brings the total group to 11 shareholders and five associates. Larry Campagna and George Hrdlicka ... [more]

Chamberlain Hrdlicka White Williams & Martin this year advised several offshore businesses in transfer pricing matters. The addition of one new associate brings the total group to 11 shareholders and five associates. Larry Campagna and George Hrdlicka are both well known individuals at the firm.

There have been no significant hires at Deloitte but the firm does hope to appoint a partner later in 2009. Despite tough economic times the group saw some revenue growth in the last 12 months. The firm is working with a lot of clients in preparation ... [more]

There have been no significant hires at Deloitte but the firm does hope to appoint a partner later in 2009. Despite tough economic times the group saw some revenue growth in the last 12 months. The firm is working with a lot of clients in preparation for Obama legislation, as well as helping them adapt to changes to the cost sharing regulations and look at their supply chain management. The firm's outstanding transfer pricing group, led by Mark Nehoray, is extremely busy with advance pricing agreements. Scott Mund's capabilities in international tax are widely regarded.

Ernst & Young has an extremely diverse client base, which has helped the firm to weather the downturn. In the entertainment industry the advisers are helping film companies with financing for projects all over the world. Construction and engineering ... [more]

Ernst & Young has an extremely diverse client base, which has helped the firm to weather the downturn. In the entertainment industry the advisers are helping film companies with financing for projects all over the world. Construction and engineering companies, biotech and life sciences and real estate projects are all important sectors for the firm. A strong foreign-desk practice enables the firm to offer clients seamless international advice. Key LA-area international tax and transfer pricing partners include Dale Spiegel, Lance Gordon, Fred Wooldridge, Chris Pimlott, Mike Denning and Mike Patton.

Latham & Watkins has gone from strength to strength in recent years. Many competitors note the firm's "size, breadth of practice, and the reputation of its Los Angeles-based tax lawyers". The firm's reputation in M&A is particularly strong. This year ... [more]

Latham & Watkins has gone from strength to strength in recent years. Many competitors note the firm's "size, breadth of practice, and the reputation of its Los Angeles-based tax lawyers". The firm's reputation in M&A is particularly strong. This year the group advised on the merger of equals between Live Nation, the world's largest producer and promoter of live entertainment, and Ticketmaster Entertainment, a ticket sales and distribution company, to create Live Nation Entertainment, a deal that will create the world's premier live entertainment company, in a tax-free, all-stock merger of equals. Recommended individuals at the firm include John Clair, James Barrall, Laurence Stein and Michael Brody.

PricewaterhouseCoopers maintains its' tier one ranking this year, providing a plethora of first rate clients with a full range of tax services. Peter Belanger is a very highly respected individual at the firm.

DLA Piper added the transfer pricing practice from Duff & Phelps to its practice this year. The team of three will significantly bolster the firm's abilities in this area. The firm this year assisted ImageNation Abu Dhabi with investments in three separate ... [more]

DLA Piper added the transfer pricing practice from Duff & Phelps to its practice this year. The team of three will significantly bolster the firm's abilities in this area. The firm this year assisted ImageNation Abu Dhabi with investments in three separate film joint ventures. The group also advised software company Activision Blizzard in post-merger integration following the global merger with Vivendi Games.

The nine practitioner-strong team at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher includes market leader Hatef Behnia. The firm offers clients cutting-edge tax advice in all areas. It counts itself as principal tax counsel to a diverse group of clients ranging, from large ... [more]

The nine practitioner-strong team at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher includes market leader Hatef Behnia. The firm offers clients cutting-edge tax advice in all areas. It counts itself as principal tax counsel to a diverse group of clients ranging, from large multinational corporations to entrepreneurs and start-up companies.

Paul Hastings Janofsky & Walker has raised its profile in the LA market over the last year. With competitors noting the firm's "strong deal experience on private equity transactions" and how the group have been "active in relation to helping clients ... [more]

Paul Hastings Janofsky & Walker has raised its profile in the LA market over the last year. With competitors noting the firm's "strong deal experience on private equity transactions" and how the group have been "active in relation to helping clients with the cost sharing regulations", The firm has been busy with controversy matters this year, as well as advising investment company Dubai World on continued restructuring and re-financing of an investment project.

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom has been involved with several companies that are financially troubled this year, helping them through the large tax implications of reorganisations or bankruptcy. The team of three partners and five associates advised ... [more]

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom has been involved with several companies that are financially troubled this year, helping them through the large tax implications of reorganisations or bankruptcy. The team of three partners and five associates advised Advanced Medical Optics in its $2.8 billion acquisition via a cash tender offer by Abbott Laboratories, a pharmaceutical company. In July 2008 the firm also advised Lone Star Funds in its $1.5 billion acquisition of the home lending business of CIT Group, a commercial and consumer finance company.

Litigation specialist Hochman Salkin Rettig Toscher & Perez has a fierce reputation. Their involvement in the UBS controversy has raised their profile in the last year.

Irell & Manella has a solid reputation and "several experienced tax lawyers," according to one market commentator.

Loeb & Loeb represents multinational, Fortune 100 companies in their mid-market transactions and litigation matters and serves as primary outside counsel to a multitude of mid-market clients.

Munger Tolles & Olsen added two associates to the tax group this year. The firm advised Berkshire Hathaway as it exchanged substantially all of its shares in White Mountains Insurance Group for the stock of a White Mountains subsidiary holding two insurance ... [more]

Munger Tolles & Olsen added two associates to the tax group this year. The firm advised Berkshire Hathaway as it exchanged substantially all of its shares in White Mountains Insurance Group for the stock of a White Mountains subsidiary holding two insurance companies and $708 million in cash, and did so on a tax-free basis.

O'Melveny & Myers has a small tax group in LA, which has seen a fair amount of activity advising clients in the in the entertainment industry this year. "Various types of investment from abroad, particularly from sovereign wealth funds have been coming ... [more]

O'Melveny & Myers has a small tax group in LA, which has seen a fair amount of activity advising clients in the in the entertainment industry this year. "Various types of investment from abroad, particularly from sovereign wealth funds have been coming into US studios recently," said a senior partner at the firm. The firm also represented Midway Investment and Development Company (MIDCo) in its winning $2.5 billion bid to enter into a 99-year concession to operate Chicago Midway Airport. MIDCo is a consortium comprised of Citi Infrastructure Investors, YVR Airport Services, and John Hancock Life Insurance Company.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has had a phenomenal year, with one competitor saying that the firm is "number one in New York", James Peaslee is highly regarded by peers in the market. While James Duncan, William McRae and Kristofer Hess are all recommended ... [more]

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has had a phenomenal year, with one competitor saying that the firm is "number one in New York", James Peaslee is highly regarded by peers in the market. While James Duncan, William McRae and Kristofer Hess are all recommended by clients. The firm has added a group of new associates this year. Restructuring has been big business for the group as financial services companies adapt after the financial crisis. The firm is seen as particularly strong in M&A tax advice with a "very high quality group", In October 2008, the firm advised Citigroup in its $25 billion private sale to the US Department of the Treasury of preferred stock and a warrant to purchase common stock. The group also acted as counsel to Barclays in its bankruptcy court-approved acquisition of Lehman Brothers' North American investment banking and capital markets business.

Davis Polk & Wardwell has handled a variety of interesting transactions, with lawyers at the firm crafting creative solutions to clients' most challenging tax matters. This tax department is active in the design and execution of innovative financial ... [more]

Davis Polk & Wardwell has handled a variety of interesting transactions, with lawyers at the firm crafting creative solutions to clients' most challenging tax matters. This tax department is active in the design and execution of innovative financial products and is well recognised in the market for its "strong litigation" practice. Lucy Farr, Avishai Shachar and Neil Barr are all highly recommended by a client.

Deloitte has depth and strength in the New York market. The firm offers a wide range of clients a full array of tax services. The firm's client list includes many of the world's largest financial services companies, who rely on the advice of the firm ... [more]

Deloitte has depth and strength in the New York market. The firm offers a wide range of clients a full array of tax services. The firm's client list includes many of the world's largest financial services companies, who rely on the advice of the firm to help them through the economic downturn.

At Ernst & Young, Jim Tobin is called "a really bright guy," by a competitor. Supply chain management is of utmost importance to clients in these economic circumstances and this firm is focusing a lot of attention on providing the best advice in this ... [more]

At Ernst & Young, Jim Tobin is called "a really bright guy," by a competitor. Supply chain management is of utmost importance to clients in these economic circumstances and this firm is focusing a lot of attention on providing the best advice in this area. Tax accounting is also vital and the group is helping clients understand possible international tax changes to this area. The firm promoted six international partners this year and has 75 people doing transfer pricing and over 200 doing international tax. An impressive 34 countries are represented in the New York foreign desk programme, offering clients timely international advice.

The tax group PricewaterhouseCoopers offers clients above-average services in all tax matters. The group is well established and has an excellent reputation in the market. Financial services and M&A are two areas where the firm is strongly commended ... [more]

The tax group PricewaterhouseCoopers offers clients above-average services in all tax matters. The group is well established and has an excellent reputation in the market. Financial services and M&A are two areas where the firm is strongly commended by peers, although both these sectors have suffered in the last 12 months.

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom has a strong presence in New York with David Rievman and Barnet Phillips receiving individual praise from competitors. The team saw a financial products and hedge funds-focused partner move on this year, but with numerous ... [more]

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom has a strong presence in New York with David Rievman and Barnet Phillips receiving individual praise from competitors. The team saw a financial products and hedge funds-focused partner move on this year, but with numerous other practitioners involved in this area, this will have little effect on the firm.

Skadden, together with co-counsel, Arthur Cox, represented Covidien, a Bermuda company, on the tax consequences associated with its move to Ireland. Advisers from the firm also represented Reinsurance Group of America in connection with the tax aspects of MetLife's divestiture of a 52% stake in Reinsurance Group in a $1.6 billion tax-free spin-off. The attorneys were also retained as special tax counsel and developed an innovative structure which met the client's various objectives and was approved by the IRS.

At Sullivan & Cromwell, Willard Taylor and David Hariton are highly praised by a client they advised on capital markets and transaction-related taxation. Andrew Solomon, managing partner of the global tax group, is also highlighted by a satisfied client. ... [more]

At Sullivan & Cromwell, Willard Taylor and David Hariton are highly praised by a client they advised on capital markets and transaction-related taxation. Andrew Solomon, managing partner of the global tax group, is also highlighted by a satisfied client. He splits his time between New York and London. The firm is well respected in New York, with a competitor saying "they are doing really well", in these tough economic times. The addition of former chief counsel of the Internal Revenue Service, Donald Korb, who works in both the New York and Washington DC offices, has undoubtedly bolstered the firm's position in this market. The firm is advising insurance and financial services organisation AIG in connection with the $85 billion emergency financing plan with the Federal Reserve, its subsequent additional $30 billion equity capital commitment facility and certain actual and potential divestiture transactions, many of which have and had international tax implications.

Cravath Swaine & Moore is labelled a "high quality practice" by a market observer. Advising on M&A financing and international corporate transactions has kept the tax group busy this year. The firm has an extensive team including six partners and is ... [more]

Cravath Swaine & Moore is labelled a "high quality practice" by a market observer. Advising on M&A financing and international corporate transactions has kept the tax group busy this year. The firm has an extensive team including six partners and is planning to add nine people later in the year. An example of the impressive work the firm handles is the representation of media company Time Warner in connection with its tax-free spin-off of Time Warner Cable. As part of the transaction, Time Warner received a $9.25 billion special dividend. "[The firm gives] full and responsive tax support for merger and acquisition and divestiture activity," says a client, who individually notes Andrew Needham. Lauren Angelilli and Steve Gordon are also praised by a client who calls them "extremely creative, thoughtful and thorough."

Debevoise & Plimpton advised mobile phone company Verizon Wireless in its $28.1 billion acquisition of Alltel Corporation this year. The firm also assisted beverage producers Pernod Ricard in its sale of the Wild Turkey business to Gruppo Campari.

KPMG advises a broad range of clients in all manner of tax services. The firm is truly international and excels in helping clients with cross-border advice.

At Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison, Peter Rothenberg is individually recommended although the whole team is highly regarded. The group is seen as a strong, independent department within the firm, not only a support function.

Shearman & Sterling partner Peter Blessing is widely recognised as a leader in this market, clients also speak very highly of him "Peter Blessing and Ansgar Simon did the best job someone can imagine." The firm saw a partner and one associate move on ... [more]

Shearman & Sterling partner Peter Blessing is widely recognised as a leader in this market, clients also speak very highly of him "Peter Blessing and Ansgar Simon did the best job someone can imagine." The firm saw a partner and one associate move on this year, but added three associates. The firm advised Merrill Lynch in connection with its acquisition by Bank of America. The transaction was structured as a merger between Merrill and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of America. The team also represented The Dow Chemical Company in connection with an aborted $17.5 billion joint venture with Petrochemical Industries Company (a subsidiary of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation). Clients are enthusiastic about the service received, one saying the advice was "prompt and high quality" and that the advisers were "very responsive and creative".

Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz advises clients on the tax aspects of corporate reorganisations, acquisitions, spin-offs and other dispositions, joint ventures, financings, and restructurings. These transactions frequently involve large multinational businesses ... [more]

Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz advises clients on the tax aspects of corporate reorganisations, acquisitions, spin-offs and other dispositions, joint ventures, financings, and restructurings. These transactions frequently involve large multinational businesses and raise complex domestic and multinational tax issues, which the team deal with effectively.

At Weil Gotshal & Manges, Kim Blanchard and Stuart Goldring are praised by clients and competitors alike. The firm represented General Motors in connection with its borrowing from the US Treasury Department, its bond exchange prospectus, its bankruptcy ... [more]

At Weil Gotshal & Manges, Kim Blanchard and Stuart Goldring are praised by clients and competitors alike. The firm represented General Motors in connection with its borrowing from the US Treasury Department, its bond exchange prospectus, its bankruptcy and the restructuring of Delphi Corporation. The tax group was also involved in the management buyout of Lehman Brother's investment management business, including Neuberger Berman, Lehman's fixed income business and some of its private equity businesses in a deal worth $922 million.

Marc Levey leads an outstanding transfer pricing group at Baker & McKenzie. The team of 20 is well recognised as a market leader for transfer pricing. The group has this year advised on several large transactions, as well as assisted clients with sophisticated ... [more]

Marc Levey leads an outstanding transfer pricing group at Baker & McKenzie. The team of 20 is well recognised as a market leader for transfer pricing. The group has this year advised on several large transactions, as well as assisted clients with sophisticated planning matters, involving several countries. Levey was involved in an important mutual agreement procedure with India, as well as many advance pricing agreements, both unilateral and bilateral. Clients come to the firm from a variety of industries including luxury items, fashion, pharmaceutical, life sciences, office products, financial services and oil and gas. The group will add two new members by the end of the year, with plans to bring an international partner in.

In June last year Dewey & LeBoeuf was involved in General Electric Company's split-off of Sundance Channel to Cablevision Systems Corporation. The tax team also advised Puget Energy when it was acquired by a consortium of infrastructure funds led by ... [more]

In June last year Dewey & LeBoeuf was involved in General Electric Company's split-off of Sundance Channel to Cablevision Systems Corporation. The tax team also advised Puget Energy when it was acquired by a consortium of infrastructure funds led by Macquarie Infrastructure Partners in a deal worth $7.4 billion. Gordon Warnke is highly praised by a client as being "very thorough and organised allied with genuine top class expertise".

Kirkland & Ellis added a new partner and one associate this year. The firm's outstanding practice in Chicago meshes with the compact but highly capable team in New York. The firm has been busy with tax planning in relation to domestic and foreign mergers, ... [more]

Kirkland & Ellis added a new partner and one associate this year. The firm's outstanding practice in Chicago meshes with the compact but highly capable team in New York. The firm has been busy with tax planning in relation to domestic and foreign mergers, acquisitions, buyouts, international restructurings, bankruptcy reorganisations, financings, executive compensation plans, and other sophisticated transactions, as well as helping clients with tax controversy matters as they arise.

Mayer Brown added four associates to the group this year. The firm has focused on building its controversy practice in New York and the growing group handled several tax controversy matters of material importance for JPMorgan Chase in the last 12 months. ... [more]

Mayer Brown added four associates to the group this year. The firm has focused on building its controversy practice in New York and the growing group handled several tax controversy matters of material importance for JPMorgan Chase in the last 12 months. The tax group also represents carmakers Volvo and Ford in all aspects of transfer pricing planning and controversy, including audits, intercompany agreements, documentation, APAs, MAPs, and arbitration. The firm also advised Carlyle High Yield Partners 2008-1, as issuer, and Carlyle Investment Management, as collateral manager in a $500 million collateralised loan obligation transaction. The collateral supporting the transaction included loans, securities, synthetic letters of credit and synthetic securities, making this a complicated transaction.

Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy has a strong practice in New York. The group advises a wide range of clients in relation to corporate finance, financial restructuring, international tax, litigation, M&A and private equity and transportation and project ... [more]

Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy has a strong practice in New York. The group advises a wide range of clients in relation to corporate finance, financial restructuring, international tax, litigation, M&A and private equity and transportation and project finance matters, among other service lines.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has a team of seven partners, four counsel and 13 associates. The firm offers clients high quality advice on the tax aspects of M&A, the design of complex financial instruments, the formation of investment funds and other capital ... [more]

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has a team of seven partners, four counsel and 13 associates. The firm offers clients high quality advice on the tax aspects of M&A, the design of complex financial instruments, the formation of investment funds and other capital pools, the structuring of real estate investments, and cross-border financing and investment activity. Partner John Hart is recommended by a competitor.

Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft represented DIP lenders in VeraSun Energy Corporation's chapter 11 case. The group also represented pharmaceutical company Pfizer in its acquisition of the Wyeth Corporation, a deal worth $68 billion. Linda Swartz is highlighted ... [more]

Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft represented DIP lenders in VeraSun Energy Corporation's chapter 11 case. The group also represented pharmaceutical company Pfizer in its acquisition of the Wyeth Corporation, a deal worth $68 billion. Linda Swartz is highlighted by a client as a talented individual, with the whole team also receiving praise, "they are technically very good and also don't lose site of the end goal, which sometimes requires compromises between technical purity and practical application of the rules".

Fried Frank Harris Shriver & Jacobson assists clients with tax issues relating to all forms of corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions and dispositions, spin-offs, and joint ventures. The department's practice also includes work on a ... [more]

Fried Frank Harris Shriver & Jacobson assists clients with tax issues relating to all forms of corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions and dispositions, spin-offs, and joint ventures. The department's practice also includes work on a variety of asset management tax issues, as well as the tax issues associated with financings, including borrower, lender and capital markets representations.

McDermott Will & Emery added two new practitioners to the New York group this year. The firm represents more than half of the Fortune 100 companies in tax matters on a regular basis and provides comprehensive tax services. The tax practice advised ... [more]

Roberts & Holland works with US and foreign multinational companies on tax matters of all manners. In the international sphere the group advises clients during cross-border M&A, joint ventures, spin-offs, restructurings, financings and leasing transa... [more]

Roberts & Holland works with US and foreign multinational companies on tax matters of all manners. In the international sphere the group advises clients during cross-border M&A, joint ventures, spin-offs, restructurings, financings and leasing transactions.

White & Case appointed a partner this year and added four associates. The tax group represented WellPoint, one of America's largest health benefits companies, in the sale of its NextRx subsidiaries, major providers of pharmacy benefit management services, ... [more]

White & Case appointed a partner this year and added four associates. The tax group represented WellPoint, one of America's largest health benefits companies, in the sale of its NextRx subsidiaries, major providers of pharmacy benefit management services, to Express Scripts, for $4.675 billion. Gerald Rokoff is called "one of the best international tax practitioners I know" by another leading lawyer in this market.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher advises on all types of business taxation issues, both domestic and international. The tax department works closely with other practice groups at the firm in advising on corporate, partnership, financing and other transactions ... [more]

Willkie Farr & Gallagher advises on all types of business taxation issues, both domestic and international. The tax department works closely with other practice groups at the firm in advising on corporate, partnership, financing and other transactions to deliver comprehensive tax services to clients. The tax group is also often asked to advise independently on tax issues for innovative transactions. The team in New York is made up of six partners, seven associates and one special counsel.

Alston & Bird has a very entrepreneurial practice. When the bottom fell out of the M&A and private equity markets, the team shifted focus and helped clients with restructuring and bankruptcy tax work. In March 2009, the group advised the Citco Group, ... [more]

Alston & Bird has a very entrepreneurial practice. When the bottom fell out of the M&A and private equity markets, the team shifted focus and helped clients with restructuring and bankruptcy tax work. In March 2009, the group advised the Citco Group, a foreign multinational company in the financial services sector with an internal restructuring of its US operations. The firm has a strong German-speaking team. The collegial atmosphere is the product of the firm's preference to grow organically, rarely making lateral hires at a senior level.

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is well prepared to advise companies in dire economic times. The firm has made some strategic hires and is carefully building service lines and positioning people resources to be able to capitalise when the market turns. The firm's ... [more]

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is well prepared to advise companies in dire economic times. The firm has made some strategic hires and is carefully building service lines and positioning people resources to be able to capitalise when the market turns. The firm's stellar restructuring group has led to the tax group working on some cutting-edge matters such as the failure of Washington Mutual bank and the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers.

Clifford Chance's client list is impressive and varied including stationery distributors Rexel, Merrill Lynch, Commercial Bank of Qatar and private equity group BlackRock. In July 2008 the firm advised Goldman Sachs on the very high profile, long running ... [more]

Clifford Chance's client list is impressive and varied including stationery distributors Rexel, Merrill Lynch, Commercial Bank of Qatar and private equity group BlackRock. In July 2008 the firm advised Goldman Sachs on the very high profile, long running and complex restructuring of Cheyne Finance, a structured investment vehicle (SIV) in receivership holding a portfolio of over $6 billion of securities. The restructuring permitted the SIV to sell off its assets and provided holders of its debt with the option of receiving cash, zero coupon notes issued by Goldman Sachs or interests in a Cayman Islands limited company which interests permitted holders to participate in the appreciation of the portfolio of securities previously held by the SIV and entitled the holders to elect to receive their share of the securities.

The New York office of Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg is a small outpost of the leading Canadian firm, but with a strong reputation. Peter Glicklich is very highly regarded by peers in the market. He and the tax team in New York advise clients from ... [more]

The New York office of Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg is a small outpost of the leading Canadian firm, but with a strong reputation. Peter Glicklich is very highly regarded by peers in the market. He and the tax team in New York advise clients from a broad range of industries, from hospitality to real estate and capital markets. In the troubled economy the firm is well aware that clients need responsive advisers and caters to this well. A thrilled client describes the group as "very service oriented. Prompt, timely [and they] always make themselves available. A pleasure to deal with".

At Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Robert Scarborough specialises in the taxation of structured finance transactions and other complex financings and is highly recommended for his work. One client says; "Robert brings outstanding, exceptional technical ... [more]

At Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Robert Scarborough specialises in the taxation of structured finance transactions and other complex financings and is highly recommended for his work. One client says; "Robert brings outstanding, exceptional technical knowledge to any structure or situation. His knowledge is recognised and respected by all parties to the transaction, and often relied upon by counsel for the counterparty". Another commends Scarborough's "insight and incredibly high diligence [which mean he] has spotted issues in a number of transactions long before they became problems. This helped avoid wasted time and also gave ample time to structure around them". This year the firm advised K+S, one of the world's leading suppliers of salt products and fertilisers, in its agreement to acquire Morton Salt from The Dow Chemical Company, for $1.7 billion.

Latham & Watkins is building its practice in New York and is gaining market recognition, with one competitor noting that the practice "consists of smart, good tax lawyers." The group this year advised on the $6.5 billion acquisition by pharmaceutical ... [more]

Latham & Watkins is building its practice in New York and is gaining market recognition, with one competitor noting that the practice "consists of smart, good tax lawyers." The group this year advised on the $6.5 billion acquisition by pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and Company of ImClone Systems Incorporated, a global biopharmaceutical company. The clients of the 17-strong group include corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, REITs, banks, insurance companies, LBO and venture capital firms and financial advisory firms.

At Linklaters, new partner and tax practice head Lewis Steinberg is highly regarded by many competitors, one says: "He is terrific, I have the greatest respect and admiration for him," and another confirms: "He is smart no question about that." Stephen ... [more]

At Linklaters, new partner and tax practice head Lewis Steinberg is highly regarded by many competitors, one says: "He is terrific, I have the greatest respect and admiration for him," and another confirms: "He is smart no question about that." Stephen Land is "very responsive to our queries and consistently provides quality advice in a timely fashion," according to one satisfied client. In 2008 the group was involved in the global restructuring of Visa International and other complex transactions.

In October 2009 Winston & Strawn represented a leading investment bank in structuring a $10 billion joint venture with another major financial institution. Both Edmund Cohen and Mitch Moetell are recommended by a client who says "I know I will always ... [more]

In October 2009 Winston & Strawn represented a leading investment bank in structuring a $10 billion joint venture with another major financial institution. Both Edmund Cohen and Mitch Moetell are recommended by a client who says "I know I will always get well-thought out advice that has solid research behind it".

Transfer pricing boutique Ceteris is building a presence in the New York market. The firm aims to provide comprehensive advisory services, assisting clients with implementation of transfer pricing systems as well as planning and documentation.

At Osler Hoskin & Harcourt, David Hardy is well regarded by market peers, one says he is "a super, super guy, talented".

The Baker & McKenzie team in this region is outstanding. Competitors acknowledge the broad experience of the team and impressive client list. Gary Sprague, Robert Kirschenbaum and John Peterson are all highlighted for their work this year. The Palo Alto ... [more]

The Baker & McKenzie team in this region is outstanding. Competitors acknowledge the broad experience of the team and impressive client list. Gary Sprague, Robert Kirschenbaum and John Peterson are all highlighted for their work this year. The Palo Alto team advises many of the main technology companies in Silicon Valley.

Deloitte has a strong tax presence in San Francisco, this top tier firm offers a full service tax practice to clients from every industry sector. Technology and bio technology are important industries in this market and Deloitte enjoys a strong reputation ... [more]

Deloitte has a strong tax presence in San Francisco, this top tier firm offers a full service tax practice to clients from every industry sector. Technology and bio technology are important industries in this market and Deloitte enjoys a strong reputation in both of them.

Ernst & Young has a "number one presence in the market," according to a leading individual in the region. The firm is undergoing significant expansion in both core tax and transfer pricing and the addition of Brian Cromwell from Baker & McKenzie is a ... [more]

Ernst & Young has a "number one presence in the market," according to a leading individual in the region. The firm is undergoing significant expansion in both core tax and transfer pricing and the addition of Brian Cromwell from Baker & McKenzie is a significant one for the firm. Beth Carr is highlighted as a talented individual. The customs practice in the area is set to grow later in the year, with an internal relocation of a practitioner from Dallas arranged. Transfer pricing continues to be a boom sector for the firm.

Fenwick & West saw some movement out of the group this year and yet the firm's reputation holds strong and the work coming into the group is first class. Luminary Jim Fuller and head of tax David Forst are both well known and respected. Three new associates ... [more]

Fenwick & West saw some movement out of the group this year and yet the firm's reputation holds strong and the work coming into the group is first class. Luminary Jim Fuller and head of tax David Forst are both well known and respected. Three new associates joined the group this year. The firm is counsel on the landmark case of Xilinx and has been very busy with tax controversy matters generally. The group has also handled some impressive transactional work in the last 12 months, as well as advising on joint ventures and complex transfer pricing matters. The team worked on over 55 M&A transactions including stationers and office supplies company Staples' acquisition of Corporate Express NV worth $4.8 billion.

McDermott Will & Emery advises companies on international tax planning and also represents clients in IRS controversies at examination, appeals and in the US Tax Court.

PricewaterhouseCoopers saw Ward Connolly, formerly with Fenwick & West, join the group this year. His addition will significantly improve the firm's standing in transfer pricing services.

DLA Piper saw a partner move on from the firm this year, but added an of counsel and an associate. Highly regarded individual David Colker was involved in two major tax audit defence procedures this year, the result of one was the elimination of a tax ... [more]

DLA Piper saw a partner move on from the firm this year, but added an of counsel and an associate. Highly regarded individual David Colker was involved in two major tax audit defence procedures this year, the result of one was the elimination of a tax and interest deficiency in excess of $30 million. Clients speak very highly of the advisers at the firm. "They understand business and they are very responsive to any request I have of them," said one. Trina Oettinger "is always very professional, respective, insightful and efficient," said another. Sang Kim and Eric Ryan are also highly praised.

KPMG is said to have a "solid presence" in this region. The firm offers clients thorough tax advice in all the main disciplines and has clients from every industry sector.

Mayer Brown transferred a Chicago partner to the Silicon Valley office this year. The workload experienced in the firm demanded it. The firm's client list is truly impressive and the tax controversy practice is booming. A trio of experts in the Silicon ... [more]

Mayer Brown transferred a Chicago partner to the Silicon Valley office this year. The workload experienced in the firm demanded it. The firm's client list is truly impressive and the tax controversy practice is booming. A trio of experts in the Silicon Valley office now handle every aspect of controversy, with Cabell Chinnis expert in arguing appeals briefs, Larry Langdon experienced in settling matters out of court and, new partner Matt Houchens a formidable litigator. This year the firm represented a client in its significant examination and protest before IRS Appeals on a variety of matters. The audit involved issues ranked by the IRS as tier 1 for special audit review and resulted in a variety of complex arguments from the IRS. The audit also involved documentation issues that required sophisticated administrative process for dealing with an IRS audit team.

At Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, George Wolf is highly praised by clients. "George is responsive and thoughtful. A clear leader in the tax-exempt field," said one. This year the firm provided tax counsel advice to the State of California in connection ... [more]

At Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, George Wolf is highly praised by clients. "George is responsive and thoughtful. A clear leader in the tax-exempt field," said one. This year the firm provided tax counsel advice to the State of California in connection with $5.2 billion- worth of Build America Bonds. This was the first issuance of such bonds in the country. The tax group also advised Citibank, Bank of America and American Express in connection with the restructuring of, and continuing issuance from, their respective multi-billion dollar credit card securitisation programmes.

Cooley Godward Kronish has "a capable team of tax lawyers" according to a market observer. The tax group works alongside other departments in the firm to provide clients with solid, integrated business tax solutions.

Morgan Lewis added two new associates this year. Over the past three years the group has grown from a single partner, to three tax partners and five tax associates. The group's expertise and capabilities continue to expand and the firm anticipates further ... [more]

Morgan Lewis added two new associates this year. Over the past three years the group has grown from a single partner, to three tax partners and five tax associates. The group's expertise and capabilities continue to expand and the firm anticipates further additions of top-level practitioners. The firm is lucky to have a broad range of work and clients, representing both international and domestic companies from public down to small start-ups.

Morrison & Foerster added a partner and an associate this year. The firm advised Campari in the acquisition of assets relating to the Wild Turkey business worldwide, coordination of tax advice and structuring relating to numerous jurisdictions. The tax ... [more]

Morrison & Foerster added a partner and an associate this year. The firm advised Campari in the acquisition of assets relating to the Wild Turkey business worldwide, coordination of tax advice and structuring relating to numerous jurisdictions. The tax practice includes numerous private equity and hedge fund representations, including distressed debt funds, involving both formation and structuring advice. As a result of the firm's large Tokyo presence, the San Francisco tax practice involves representation of many large Japanese corporations, such as Hitachi and Toshiba, in domestic and foreign transactions and internal reorganisations

Two new associates boosted the group at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman this year where partners Julie Divola and Jeffrey Vesely are frequently recommended by market peers. The firm acted as a special tax counsel to a large electronics company in connection ... [more]

Two new associates boosted the group at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman this year where partners Julie Divola and Jeffrey Vesely are frequently recommended by market peers. The firm acted as a special tax counsel to a large electronics company in connection with its creation of a financing vehicle that is expected to have a combined enterprise value of $300 million.

The team at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is well equipped to advise on transactions. Partner Ivan Humphreys is the well known adviser there, representing clients in connection with a variety of transactional matters, including domestic and cross-border ... [more]

The team at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is well equipped to advise on transactions. Partner Ivan Humphreys is the well known adviser there, representing clients in connection with a variety of transactional matters, including domestic and cross-border M&A, dispositions, spin-offs, restructurings, financings and the formation of partnerships and limited liability companies.

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand has been busy this year working with numerous troubled companies. The firm's expertise in this area has shone through with a number of market observers noting work done in this area. David Zaiken has advised on numerous reorganisations ... [more]

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand has been busy this year working with numerous troubled companies. The firm's expertise in this area has shone through with a number of market observers noting work done in this area. David Zaiken has advised on numerous reorganisations of China operations of large US companies. The group has also been involved in several competent authority disputes with France, India and the IRS.

Deloitte made some important hires in DC this year, with Gretchen Sierra joining from the IRS and Paul Epstein a new addition to the firm's financial products team, doing both transfer pricing and international. Transfer pricing has been busy for the ... [more]

Deloitte made some important hires in DC this year, with Gretchen Sierra joining from the IRS and Paul Epstein a new addition to the firm's financial products team, doing both transfer pricing and international. Transfer pricing has been busy for the firm this year, with the new cost sharing regulations keeping recommended individual Arin Mitra and the rest of the 35-strong transfer pricing group very busy. Clients come to the firm from every industry sector including pharmaceutical, technology, consumer brands, restaurants and automotive. The firm has assisted many clients with complex planning and risk management this year with advance pricing agreements (APA) being in high demand. There has also been a lot of controversy for the tax group to guide clients through.

Ernst & Young has had a very busy year, also reporting a large demand for transfer pricing services. The tax group have been helping clients adjust to contract manufacturing regulations and take quick action to adapt for the cost sharing regulations. ... [more]

Ernst & Young has had a very busy year, also reporting a large demand for transfer pricing services. The tax group have been helping clients adjust to contract manufacturing regulations and take quick action to adapt for the cost sharing regulations. The firm made some significant additions to the group, bringing in former commissioner of the Large and Mid-Size Business Division at the IRS, Frank Ng as well as Barbara Angus, whose career has seen her gain experience on the Hill, in Treasury and running a lobbying firm. The firm has been focused on helping clients with planning if the proposed Obama legislation becomes reality, but at the same time ensuring that if the law does not change, that that planning will not leave clients in a worse situation, something the firm calls "no risk planning". The firm is finding a lot of work in the band of companies beneath the Fortune 500 companies, those that perhaps do not have the big in-house departments of the largest companies.

Advisers from McDermott Will & Emery's tax group served as the US legal and tax advisers for Stanford University Medical Indemnity and Trust Insurance Company when the captive insurance company that funds the liability risk exposures of the university's ... [more]

At PricewaterhouseCoopers, David Swenson is highly regarded by competitors for his success in tax controversy matters. The firm has an exceptionally strong group in DC, offering clients a full range of tax services. Clients come to the firm from every ... [more]

At PricewaterhouseCoopers, David Swenson is highly regarded by competitors for his success in tax controversy matters. The firm has an exceptionally strong group in DC, offering clients a full range of tax services. Clients come to the firm from every industry sector.

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom is widely recognised as a force to be reckoned with in DC. The team has a phenomenal reputation. Hal Hicks, Paul Oosterhuis and Pam Olson are all frequently mentioned as leading individuals by both competitors and clients. ... [more]

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom is widely recognised as a force to be reckoned with in DC. The team has a phenomenal reputation. Hal Hicks, Paul Oosterhuis and Pam Olson are all frequently mentioned as leading individuals by both competitors and clients. The firm continued to build the tax group this year, adding one partner and an of counsel. The firm is representing mobile electronics company Delphi and its affiliated debtors in chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings as well as advising Duke Energy in its $124 million acquisition of a 70-megawatt wind power generation facility located in Pennsylvania.

Baker & McKenzie has a well known group of experienced advisers in this market. Leonard Terr, Duane Webb and Carol Dunahoo are all consistently recommended by market observers. Clients come to the firm from all industry sectors and represent a true cross-section ... [more]

Baker & McKenzie has a well known group of experienced advisers in this market. Leonard Terr, Duane Webb and Carol Dunahoo are all consistently recommended by market observers. Clients come to the firm from all industry sectors and represent a true cross-section of business in terms of size. The firm excels in international work and has an in-house group of economists furthering the scope of services available to clients.

Bingham McCutchen (legacy McKee Nelson): the merger of these two firms has created a tax group that will continue to serve clients well. Scott Farmer is individually noted and John Magee's abilities in tax controversy are well known. The total group ... [more]

Bingham McCutchen (legacy McKee Nelson): the merger of these two firms has created a tax group that will continue to serve clients well. Scott Farmer is individually noted and John Magee's abilities in tax controversy are well known. The total group now is around 65-70 people and the firm continues to represent a large concentration of both foreign based and US-based financial institutions including both investment and commercial banks. The firm reports seeing a lot of litigation in the past year, as well as being very busy with restructuring complex financial institutions' tax structures to deal with changing economic circumstances.

Clients sing the praises of Caplin & Drysdale. "The tax professionals at Caplin are not only extremely knowledgeable, but operate in a collegial, quick, assistive manner," says one satisfied client. "You can pick up the phone and brainstorm with David ... [more]

Clients sing the praises of Caplin & Drysdale. "The tax professionals at Caplin are not only extremely knowledgeable, but operate in a collegial, quick, assistive manner," says one satisfied client. "You can pick up the phone and brainstorm with David Rosenbloom and other Caplin lawyers, in the same way you would brainstorm with a company colleague. It is informal, quick, and useful." The firm this year offered advice to the Principality of Liechtenstein regarding US domestic taxation laws, US tax treaties, US tax policy and the formation of its policy for negotiation of the US-Liechtenstein tax information exchange agreement.

Dewey & LeBoeuf has a large and capable team in Washington DC. A client reports total satisfaction in work the firm did in obtaining an IRS ruling on a complex transaction.

Mayer Brown has a "true legend" in Charlie Triplett, who has been involved with the APA programme from its inception, Triplett's knowledge in this area is second to none and as a consequence his APA practice is thriving. The firm's transactional and ... [more]

Mayer Brown has a "true legend" in Charlie Triplett, who has been involved with the APA programme from its inception, Triplett's knowledge in this area is second to none and as a consequence his APA practice is thriving. The firm's transactional and controversy practices mesh well with the firm's international transfer pricing expertise, the group is well poised to provide clients with a full range of tax services. The group advised private equity firm LBO France in one of the biggest buyouts in 2008. The transaction was the sale of a one-third stake in Converteam, a French power generation company in a deal valued at $3.1 billion. Jeffrey Davis moved to the firm from McKee Nelson and brings with him expertise in transactions involving tax credits, for example in the area of alternative energy. Kenneth Klein is another well known adviser at the firm.

Steptoe & Johnson welcomed Patricia White back to the firm this year; she joined from academia as a special counsel to the firm. The group also added two new associates. The practice has shifted focus somewhat in the past 12 months, with senior partners ... [more]

Steptoe & Johnson welcomed Patricia White back to the firm this year; she joined from academia as a special counsel to the firm. The group also added two new associates. The practice has shifted focus somewhat in the past 12 months, with senior partners noting a slowdown in M&A work and an increase in clients seeking advice on policy matters and restructuring. The firm has a broad range of impressive clients from all industry sectors. In the past 12 months it has provided advocacy services before Treasury, the IRS and Congress, discussing the regulations being issued and how they will affect clients. Phil West is described as "so on top of his stuff, it's amazing". A client says: "His experience in government gives him an edge over his key rivals in anticipating changes. Phil is indispensable." Clients speak very highly of other members of the group also. "Mark Silverman and his team wrote the book on client service. Mark is there when you need him and brings incredible enthusiasm and expertise to any tax discussion. He offers technically sound yet pragmatic guidance and his involvement has generated significant value time and again." Matt Lerner also received individual praise for being "very professional, timely and responsive to questions."

Competitors note the strong practice at Sutherland Asbill & Brennan. This year the firm acted as tax counsel to Altria Group in its acquisition of UST, the world's leading moist smokeless tobacco manufacturer, in a transaction valued at $11.7 billion. ... [more]

Competitors note the strong practice at Sutherland Asbill & Brennan. This year the firm acted as tax counsel to Altria Group in its acquisition of UST, the world's leading moist smokeless tobacco manufacturer, in a transaction valued at $11.7 billion. Advisers from the firm also represented Kraft Foods as tax counsel in the $2.6 billion tax-free split-off of its Post cereals business and the merger of the Post cereals business into a subsidiary of Ralcorp Holdings. Clients praise Cliff Muller, Randy Buchanan and Robb Chase for their knowledge and expertise in [specialist] fields. Clients use the firm both as "a sounding board for a variety of tax issues and when we need complex advice on structuring".

At DLA Piper the team is compact but exceptional. Alan Granwell continues to be a big name in tax advice and is highly thought of by competitors and clients alike.

Jones Day added an associate this year. Tax partner Joseph Goldman advised multinational biopharmaceutical company Celgene on post-merger integration of Pharmion in France and Germany in the last 12 months.

Latham & Watkins represented CONSOL Energy before the US Court of Federal Claims in a case involving the netting of federal income and excise taxes of CONSOL Energy and its subsidiaries this year. The group added three new associates and continues to ... [more]

Latham & Watkins represented CONSOL Energy before the US Court of Federal Claims in a case involving the netting of federal income and excise taxes of CONSOL Energy and its subsidiaries this year. The group added three new associates and continues to build strength in this region.

Companies come to Miller & Chevalier Chartered for very specialised advice. When the economy is bad and budgets are shrinking, the big fundamental problems still need to be solved and the firm has seen its business remain steady as a result. The firm ... [more]

Companies come to Miller & Chevalier Chartered for very specialised advice. When the economy is bad and budgets are shrinking, the big fundamental problems still need to be solved and the firm has seen its business remain steady as a result. The firm added a new member this year, bringing in George Clarke, a controversy specialist from Baker & McKenzie. Clarke is handling some interesting pro bono work at Guantanamo Bay. There has been some movement at the top of the firm this year, with former chair of the firm, Sam Maruca, leaving. Rocco Femia and Marc Gerson both receive individual recommendations from competitors.

Shearman & Sterling provides international strategic tax planning advice and representation on a variety of complex transactions, both local and cross-border. The strong and experienced team is well respected in the marketplace.

This year Weil Gotshal & Manges represented Brookfield Asset Management on the US tax aspects of the spin-off and formation of entities in connection with Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, most recently arranging a $200 million revolving facility for ... [more]

This year Weil Gotshal & Manges represented Brookfield Asset Management on the US tax aspects of the spin-off and formation of entities in connection with Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, most recently arranging a $200 million revolving facility for working capital and permitted acquisitions. The group also represented Barclays Bank in a €15 billion ($21.7 billion) global covered bond programme involving the acquisition of mortgage loans and the related security from Barclays Bank.

White & Case added one associate to an already strong group this year. The firm is advising Cintra Transport Infrastructure Concessions regarding its bids to enter into development and lease agreements with the Texas Department of Transportation to develop, ... [more]

White & Case added one associate to an already strong group this year. The firm is advising Cintra Transport Infrastructure Concessions regarding its bids to enter into development and lease agreements with the Texas Department of Transportation to develop, lease and toll the North Tarrant Expressway tolled lanes in North Tarrant County, Texas and the LBJ Freeway tolled lanes in Dallas, Texas. Linda Carlisle, Bruce Davis and Michael Quigley are three notable professionals in the team.

Alston & Bird added one new associate this year. The group advised investment bank Merrill Lynch in forming a new REIT that is registering for sale $2.25 billion of common stock. The team also advised financial services company GMAC in the exchange of ... [more]

Alston & Bird added one new associate this year. The group advised investment bank Merrill Lynch in forming a new REIT that is registering for sale $2.25 billion of common stock. The team also advised financial services company GMAC in the exchange of old notes for new notes and preferred stock to raise capital.

The restructuring practice at Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is booming, meaning good things for the tax group. The team has been very busy advising on both the biggest bank failing and the largest bankruptcy in US history. The firm has also been active in ... [more]

The restructuring practice at Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is booming, meaning good things for the tax group. The team has been very busy advising on both the biggest bank failing and the largest bankruptcy in US history. The firm has also been active in terms of assisting clients with inbound investment into the US. The firm has seen a slow-down in the private equity sector, with the global economy and uncertainty about Obama's proposals to blame.

Transfer pricing boutique Ceteris opened an office in the Washington DC are this year. The new group will give the firm litigation expertise for the first time.

Covington & Burling added two new practitioners from Miller Chevalier this year.

There was one internal promotion at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer this year. The group advised investment bank Goldman Sachs in relation to its role in the restructuring of the $5 billion structured investment vehicle Whistlejacket Capital, which entered ... [more]

There was one internal promotion at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer this year. The group advised investment bank Goldman Sachs in relation to its role in the restructuring of the $5 billion structured investment vehicle Whistlejacket Capital, which entered into receivership. The team also advised Ipsen, a French pharmaceutical group, in connection with its $663 million acquisition of Tercica.

Wilmer Hale advised on the first SEC-registered peer-to-peer lending organisation this year. The firm added two new associates to the tax practice, which assists clients on the tax implications of domestic and international transactions, including mergers, ... [more]

Wilmer Hale advised on the first SEC-registered peer-to-peer lending organisation this year. The firm added two new associates to the tax practice, which assists clients on the tax implications of domestic and international transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, financings, investments, joint ventures and restructurings. The firm also represents clients in seeking favourable guidance and rulings from the IRS and state tax authorities, and defends clients in tax litigation and audits.