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The comprehensive guide to the world's leading tax firms

Jaclyn Pampel of Baker & McKenzie was elected as partner in the tax department in March 2011. Pampel has extensive experience in transfer pricing disputes and advises clients on IRS negotiations and in actions before the courts. The tax group is known ... [more]

Jaclyn Pampel of Baker & McKenzie was elected as partner in the tax department in March 2011. Pampel has extensive experience in transfer pricing disputes and advises clients on IRS negotiations and in actions before the courts. The tax group is known for its excellent controversy practice. Partner Jim O'Brien is noted by peers as one of the best tax litigators in Chicago. The firm's international network helps it in the services it can provide clients. give it an advantage in the market. Gregg Lemein is often mentioned by competitors for his transfer pricing expertise. In November 2010, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) confirmed that it would not appeal the US Tax Court's decision in Veritas Software Corp v Commissioner, where Baker & McKenzie represented the software company in transfer pricing litigation centring on a cost sharing agreement. The case has been closely watched by international tax practitioners because the IRS had taken similar positions with many multinational corporations, asserting billons of dollars in adjustments.

Deloitte's Chicago tax practice has seen an increase in due diligence work as M&A activity begins to rebound in the past year. The firm is also noted in the market for its transfer pricing practice, helping clients to structure related-party transactions, ... [more]

Deloitte's Chicago tax practice has seen an increase in due diligence work as M&A activity begins to rebound in the past year. The firm is also noted in the market for its transfer pricing practice, helping clients to structure related-party transactions, deal with foreign audits and develop proper documentation procedures. Judy Nygard joined the practice during the year as a principal. Nygard has over 20 years of international tax experience, working with large, complex global organizations and managing human capital issues across geographic and organizational boundaries.

Partners Anna Voortman and Colleen Warner have a combined 47 years of service with Ernst & Young. Voortman leads the Mid-West international M&A tax group. Warner is the longest tenured transfer pricing partner at the firm and a leading practitioner in ... [more]

Partners Anna Voortman and Colleen Warner have a combined 47 years of service with Ernst & Young. Voortman leads the Mid-West international M&A tax group. Warner is the longest tenured transfer pricing partner at the firm and a leading practitioner in the market. The Chicago office has the second largest international tax group in the firm and focuses heavily on work for companies in the pharmaceutical and technology industries. With the IRS's recent increase in its activities in the Mid-West, there has been a simultaneous focus on transfer pricing during the audit process. The firm's top practitioners have assisted many clients in the past year with their internal restructuring as well as intellectual property migration and cost-sharing agreements.

The tax planning and transactional practice of Kirkland & Ellis has 27 partners and 21 other fee earners. The Chicago office is the firm's largest tax practice. Traditionally, the practice is known for its experience with bankruptcy matters, including ... [more]

The tax planning and transactional practice of Kirkland & Ellis has 27 partners and 21 other fee earners. The Chicago office is the firm's largest tax practice. Traditionally, the practice is known for its experience with bankruptcy matters, including a large amount of work on leveraged buyouts. The team led by Todd Maynes, represented Tronox, a leading manufacturer and marketer of titanium dioxide pigment, electrolytics and speciality chemicals in its two-year Chapter 11 case. Tronox filed for bankruptcy protection to address massive legacy environmental and tort liabilities incurred in connection with its spinoff from former parent Kerr-McGee Corporation, now Anadarko Petroleum Company. Tronox's environmental settlement, of $1.5 billion in assets, is one of the largest in bankruptcy history, covering more than 2,800 sites around the country and including as signatories the United States through the Department of Justice, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Navajo nation. The firm also led advisory work for the Swiss multinational food company Aryzta in its acquisition of Fresh Start Bakeries and Great Kitchens for a combined $1.08 billion, in separate deals announced in June 2010. The deals will be financed through cash at hand, bank facilities, funds raised through debt and $140 million worth of Aryzta shares. Laura Bader joined the tax group in September 2010 as a partner. Twelve associates have also joined in the past year.

In 2010 Mayer Brown lost partners Russell Young, who joined Baker & McKenzie in August and Gary Colton, who left to join Winston Strawn in October. The practice added two associates in September 2010. The firm however, is still one of most respected ... [more]

In 2010 Mayer Brown lost partners Russell Young, who joined Baker & McKenzie in August and Gary Colton, who left to join Winston Strawn in October. The practice added two associates in September 2010. The firm however, is still one of most respected tax firms in Chicago and maintained their presence in the market over the past year. A leading tax specialist says: "Mayer Brown is a fantastic controversy firm." Members of the tax group William Schmalzl, Joel Williamson and C Cabell Chinnis represented Flextronics, an electronics manufacturing services provider, in litigation concerning an acquisition of a North Carolina manufacturing facility completed by a subsidiary, C-MAC Holdings, before it was acquired by Flextronics. At issue was whether the assets acquired by the subsidiary received a step-up in basis.

McDermott Will & Emery's tax practice has remained busy with roles on sizeable M&A deals, corporate restructurings and high-profile advisory work. The firm handles a significant amount of post-acquisition integration work, if not always structuring the ... [more]

McDermott Will & Emery's tax practice has remained busy with roles on sizeable M&A deals, corporate restructurings and high-profile advisory work. The firm handles a significant amount of post-acquisition integration work, if not always structuring the actual transaction. Clients say that Lowell Yoder, head of the firm's US and international tax practice, is a "prompt, thorough, and hard-working lawyer". The firm continues to advise clients on supply chain planning, as companies are looking to move profits to low-tax jurisdictions offshore in an effort to cut costs. The firm boasts clients such as Motorola, New York Times, Office Depot and Procter & Gamble.

PwC maintains its tier one ranking in Chicago. The firm provides a full range of tax services to clients across a variety of industries. The group in Chicago is large and equipped to handle any number of tax issues.

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom's Chicago tax group of seven partners and 14 other fee earners is led by David Polster. The practice in the past year has worked to build its international tax controversy practice, however, it is still one of the most ... [more]

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom's Chicago tax group of seven partners and 14 other fee earners is led by David Polster. The practice in the past year has worked to build its international tax controversy practice, however, it is still one of the most sought-after firms in the city for its transactional work. The firm is advising Pfizer, the multinational pharmaceutical company, concerning the tax and transfer pricing implications of its restructuring of plant operations after its $68.3 billion acquisition of Wyeth, its research-based pharmaceutical rival. The restructuring involves a comprehensive review of Pfizer's operating footprint and is expected to involve the closure of eight facilities and reduction of operations at six others by end of 2015. Partner Nathaniel Carden led the tax advisory work on this transaction.

Stephen Bowen of Latham & Watkins is recognised by peers as a "really impressive corporate tax lawyer". The Chicago tax team contributed handsomely to the more than $26 billion in announced M&A transactions that the firm's lawyers advised on around the ... [more]

Stephen Bowen of Latham & Watkins is recognised by peers as a "really impressive corporate tax lawyer". The Chicago tax team contributed handsomely to the more than $26 billion in announced M&A transactions that the firm's lawyers advised on around the world in 2010 and 2011, representing principal entities or financial advisers in more than 126 public and private transactions. Partner Diana Doyle, who chairs the tax department in Chicago, is described by a leading tax litigator as a "top specialist" in the market. Apart from her disputes practice, she focuses on tax planning for multinational companies in public and private M&A.

Sidley Austin's tax group services clients on a wide range of transactional matters including M&A, spinoffs, securitisation and structured finance, joint ventures, reorganisations, real estate investment trusts and cross-border transactions. The firm ... [more]

Sidley Austin's tax group services clients on a wide range of transactional matters including M&A, spinoffs, securitisation and structured finance, joint ventures, reorganisations, real estate investment trusts and cross-border transactions. The firm advises Fortune 100 companies and privately held businesses on state, federal and international taxation matters. Such clients include GE, Saks and Citadel Investment Group.

The advisers at Grant Thornton cover all areas of tax advice. The international tax group has a number of subspecialties within it, including specific advice for doing business in China, India, and Latin America. Professionals in these groups have extensive ... [more]

The advisers at Grant Thornton cover all areas of tax advice. The international tax group has a number of subspecialties within it, including specific advice for doing business in China, India, and Latin America. Professionals in these groups have extensive business and government experience in each of these regions.

Katten Muchin Rosenman is a full service law firm with a tax practice that specialises in transactions, including M&A, leveraged buyouts, spinoffs, liquidations, real estate purchases and sales of financial derivatives.

KPMG is strong on international taxation matters and is particularly adept at assisting clients with cross-border transactions. The firm advises a broad range of clients.

David Dumezich and Gary Colton joined Winston & Strawn announced in October 2010 as partners. Dumezich, has represented numerous companies including international financial institutions and public accounting firms in complex tax controversies before ... [more]

David Dumezich and Gary Colton joined Winston & Strawn announced in October 2010 as partners. Dumezich, has represented numerous companies including international financial institutions and public accounting firms in complex tax controversies before the IRS and many other state tax authorities for more than 20 years. Colton has experience in all aspects of tax controversy work. Both joined the firm from Mayer Brown.

Jenner & Block is led by Christian Kimball, who is an adjunct professor of taxation of financial instruments at the Chicago-Kent College of Law. He has extensive experience of all aspects of the federal income tax, including M&A and other corporate restructurings, ... [more]

Jenner & Block is led by Christian Kimball, who is an adjunct professor of taxation of financial instruments at the Chicago-Kent College of Law. He has extensive experience of all aspects of the federal income tax, including M&A and other corporate restructurings, and with tax controversies. Two other federal tax partners work in the Chicago office.

Kenneth Harris is the head of the tax department of Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg. The Chicago firm focuses on four central areas of tax law including international tax, tax controversy and litigation, tax planning and transactions and tax exempt organisations.

Lawyers in the tax practice of Baker Botts have advised clients in several countries, on topics including the effects of bilateral and multilateral tax treaties. The practice has 23 tax partners that are well-versed in all aspects of tax representation, ... [more]

Lawyers in the tax practice of Baker Botts have advised clients in several countries, on topics including the effects of bilateral and multilateral tax treaties. The practice has 23 tax partners that are well-versed in all aspects of tax representation, including income tax, international tax, tax controversy and transfer pricing. In the past year three associates joined the tax group. Clients of the practice include oil and gas companies such as Apache and related businesses such as Transocean and Pride International, both offshore drilling companies. The practice advised on an $11 billion reorganisation of Schlumberger and Smith International, an oilfields services company in 2010.

Professionals in the Houston and Dallas offices of Deloitte notice a robust uptick in M&A transactions in the last year. The firm is doing more deals in the energy market. The Houston office added partner Dwayne Van Wieren in May 2011, who joined the ... [more]

Professionals in the Houston and Dallas offices of Deloitte notice a robust uptick in M&A transactions in the last year. The firm is doing more deals in the energy market. The Houston office added partner Dwayne Van Wieren in May 2011, who joined the firm from KPMG. He is the firm's national service line leader for US indirect tax services. The transfer pricing services that Deloitte offers in this market are repeatedly recognised by peers as the firm's strongest asset.

Ernst & Young's transfer pricing practice for the area is conducted out of the firm's Houston office. It has been busy over the last year. The practice reports that controversy is on the increase and there is more advance pricing agreement work. The ... [more]

Ernst & Young's transfer pricing practice for the area is conducted out of the firm's Houston office. It has been busy over the last year. The practice reports that controversy is on the increase and there is more advance pricing agreement work. The professionals in Houston and Dallas are also advising on more inbound investments into the area and expect M&A to be a significant focus of the group moving into the next year. The practice also advises clients on their supply chain activity in an effort to drive costs in a market that has not been significantly impacted in either Dallas or Houston.

Parter John Allender of Fulbright & Jaworski is recognised by peers for his work on corporate tax matters. The firm's tax litigation group is well respected in the market and receives praise by competitors for its controversy practice. Partner William ... [more]

Parter John Allender of Fulbright & Jaworski is recognised by peers for his work on corporate tax matters. The firm's tax litigation group is well respected in the market and receives praise by competitors for its controversy practice. Partner William Lee is constantly referred to by peers as a "leading tax specialist," in the market. Additionally, partner Jasper Taylor is recognised by clients for his "practical approach and strong knowledge," in tax related issues.

PwC serves more than 90% of Fortune 500 energy companies in the Dallas and Houston office. The firm helps these companies with all variety of tax matters, including industry-specific issues such as investment in R&D and technology.

Vinson & Elkins provided tax advice, led by partner David Peck, to Southwest Airlines on the $1.4 billion agreement to acquire AirTran Holdings in October 2010. This transaction was the second major airline deal of the year that the tax team handled. ... [more]

Vinson & Elkins provided tax advice, led by partner David Peck, to Southwest Airlines on the $1.4 billion agreement to acquire AirTran Holdings in October 2010. This transaction was the second major airline deal of the year that the tax team handled. The practice added four new associates in 2011. The practice also acted as tax counsel in 2010 for seven recent formations and initial public offerings for master limited partnerships: Rhino Resource Partners; QR energy; CVR Energy; Tesoro Logistics; Golar LNG Partners; Compressco Partners and Oiltanking Partners. The deal involved the formation of publicly traded partnerships owning shipping, storage, earnings and profits, coal, and the manufacturing of production enhancement solutions, in a series of transactions totalling $1.7 billion.

Andrews Kurth maintains a strong reputation in the energy industry. Partners, Andrew Feiner and Angela Richards led advisory work on the conversion from income trust status in a $2.1 billion spin-off and merger of Provident Energy Trust's upstream oil ... [more]

Andrews Kurth maintains a strong reputation in the energy industry. Partners, Andrew Feiner and Angela Richards led advisory work on the conversion from income trust status in a $2.1 billion spin-off and merger of Provident Energy Trust's upstream oil and natural gas production business with Midnight Oil Exploration in October 2010. The new company is called Pace Oil & Gas. The practice advises clients on the tax consequences of sales and purchases involving oil, gas and other natural resources. The tax group handles a significant amount of tax work for various real estate investment trusts, including acquisition planning and exit strategy considerations.

Baker & McKenzie's tax practices clients comes from a variety of industries with a special emphasis on energy, manufacturing and private equity. The firm has earned a leading reputation for international tax.

Thompson & Knight's tax controversy group excels at handling litigation for clients in the energy industry, including petroleum, hard minerals and natural resources. Partner Emily Parker is "brilliant in litigation with an impressive record", notes a ... [more]

Thompson & Knight's tax controversy group excels at handling litigation for clients in the energy industry, including petroleum, hard minerals and natural resources. Partner Emily Parker is "brilliant in litigation with an impressive record", notes a tier one specialist. The firm is headquartered in Dallas and has earned a strong reputation among many peers in the market.

Gardere Wynne Sewell's tax capability includes lawyers, accountants and economists that deal with all aspects of transfer pricing work, including advance pricing agreements, competent authority representation, withholding tax and transfers of intellectual ... [more]

Gardere Wynne Sewell's tax capability includes lawyers, accountants and economists that deal with all aspects of transfer pricing work, including advance pricing agreements, competent authority representation, withholding tax and transfers of intellectual property. However, that is not all the firm's tax practitioners can do. In fact, the transfer pricing and international tax practice is in addition to groups that cover federal tax, controversies, accounting for tax, FBAR (Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts), tax policy and energy tax. The Dallas and Houston offices work closely with its Mexico City office on a number of transfer pricing matters. Cym Lowell is regarded by peers as top transfer pricing specialist.

The advisers at Grant Thornton cover all areas of tax advice. The international tax group has a number of subspecialties within it, including advice for doing business in China, India, and Latin America. Professionals in these groups have extensive business ... [more]

The advisers at Grant Thornton cover all areas of tax advice. The international tax group has a number of subspecialties within it, including advice for doing business in China, India, and Latin America. Professionals in these groups have extensive business and government experience in each of these regions.

Tax specialists Ken Bezozo, who is managing partner of the New York office, and Brandon Jones were part of the Haynes and Boone team that advised Texas Advanced Optoelectronic Solutions Inc. (TAOS), a leading optoelectronic solutions provider, in its $320 million combination with austriamicrosystems, a leading global designer and manufacturer of high-performance analog integrated circuits for consumers. Austriamicrosystems acquired 100% of TAOS' shares and the TAOS stockholders became the largest stockholders in publicly traded austriamicrosystems, acquiring more than 20%. The Dallas and Houston tax groups have 11 partners between them, including Vicki Martin-Odette, who chairs the firm's business planning, taxation and benefits section.

KPMG has added three specialists to its Dallas and Houston practices in 2011. The firm advises a broad range of clients. Competitors note that the firm is "strong on international tax matters", and assisting client with cross-border structuring.

Locke Lord & Bissell's tax practice helps clients with structuring and other advice relating to areas such as UpREIT (real estate investment trusts) partnerships, DownREIT partnerships, taxable REIT subsidiaries and other entities in which REIT clients ... [more]

Locke Lord & Bissell's tax practice helps clients with structuring and other advice relating to areas such as UpREIT (real estate investment trusts) partnerships, DownREIT partnerships, taxable REIT subsidiaries and other entities in which REIT clients invest.

Tax advisers of Weil Gotshal & Manges in Dallas and Houston assist clients with all stages of the restructuring process, including structuring tax efficient reorganisation plans to preserve valuable tax attributes, developing employee retention programmes, ... [more]

Tax advisers of Weil Gotshal & Manges in Dallas and Houston assist clients with all stages of the restructuring process, including structuring tax efficient reorganisation plans to preserve valuable tax attributes, developing employee retention programmes, managing sales and employment tax liabilities, and dealing with the IRS and other tax authorities in obtaining rulings and closing agreements.

Clients of Alvarez & Marsal Taxand in 2011 come from all industries, including the power, energy, insurance and craft retail sectors. The practice provided tax controversy assistance to a multinational energy company, including the development of a position ... [more]

Clients of Alvarez & Marsal Taxand in 2011 come from all industries, including the power, energy, insurance and craft retail sectors. The practice provided tax controversy assistance to a multinational energy company, including the development of a position and presentation for the IRS on the book and tax treatment of financial products. In the last year it has aassisted major Fortune 500 companies with obtaining sales and use tax overpaid in multiple jurisdictions.

In January 2011 partners Gregory Bopp and Lance Behnke in the Houston office of Bracewell & Giuliani advised Enerplus Corporation, one of Canada's oldest and largest independent oil and gas producers, on the US tax issues associated with its conversion ... [more]

In January 2011 partners Gregory Bopp and Lance Behnke in the Houston office of Bracewell & Giuliani advised Enerplus Corporation, one of Canada's oldest and largest independent oil and gas producers, on the US tax issues associated with its conversion from a Canadian income trust to a Canadian corporation. The $1 billion transaction was structured as a tax-free transaction for US tax purposes because US investors held a significant portion of Enerplus's trust units.

K&L Gates's tax practice covers areas such as business formation, transactions, tax controversies and litigation, fund formation and operation, international tax, taxation of financial products, real estate/commercial lending and alternative energy/tax-enhanced ... [more]

K&L Gates's tax practice covers areas such as business formation, transactions, tax controversies and litigation, fund formation and operation, international tax, taxation of financial products, real estate/commercial lending and alternative energy/tax-enhanced investing.

Chamberlain Hrdlicka advises clients that include public companies, privately held businesses, partnerships and joint ventures on domestic and international tax planning and tax controversy matters. George Connelly, a shareholder in the Houston office, ... [more]

Chamberlain Hrdlicka advises clients that include public companies, privately held businesses, partnerships and joint ventures on domestic and international tax planning and tax controversy matters. George Connelly, a shareholder in the Houston office, chairs the tax controversy practice.

Deloitte has a strong transfer pricing group, which is particularly able when dealing with intellectual property and advance pricing agreements. Mark Nehoray, is recommended among peers as being a leader in transfer pricing. Scott Mund is one of the ... [more]

Deloitte has a strong transfer pricing group, which is particularly able when dealing with intellectual property and advance pricing agreements. Mark Nehoray, is recommended among peers as being a leader in transfer pricing. Scott Mund is one of the market's "top cross-border structuring" specialists and is praised by competitors for his work. The practice expects the amount of audit work will continue to grow. They now have one case before the competent authority and five advance pricing agreements (APAs) in progress.

DLA Piper's tax practice under the leadership of Michael Lebovitz, has had significant additions to its tax practice in the past year. In addition to Mike Patton, who joined as a transfer pricing partner shortly before last year's edition of World Tax ... [more]

DLA Piper's tax practice under the leadership of Michael Lebovitz, has had significant additions to its tax practice in the past year. In addition to Mike Patton, who joined as a transfer pricing partner shortly before last year's edition of World Tax came out, the group has added an associate and finance specialist. Lebovitz is assisting Abu Dhabi Media, a UAE state-owned media company, make a significant investment in VEVO, an on-line music videos site owned by Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music Group. The complex restructuring resulted from a previous investment in an operating business in the US by a subsidiary of a sovereign wealth fund. Lebovitz is recognised as a leading practitioner in international tax planning, including M&A and joint ventures.

With a significant increase in M&A activity in 2011, more multinationals are coming to Ernst & Young's Los Angeles practice for transaction structuring, due diligence and post-merger integration advice. The tax team is also helping taxpayers to comply ... [more]

With a significant increase in M&A activity in 2011, more multinationals are coming to Ernst & Young's Los Angeles practice for transaction structuring, due diligence and post-merger integration advice. The tax team is also helping taxpayers to comply with the Schedule UTP regime on uncertain tax positions. Key international tax and transfer pricing partners include Mike Denning, John Nagy and Julie Wooldridge.

PwC's tax practice still retains top cross-border structuring specialists, Jim Cigler and Peter Belanger.

Gibson Dunn & Crutcher's tax practice handles a wide range of international tax matters, including both inbound and outbound work and is also experienced in litigating tax cases before state and federal courts. Hatef Behnia, is widely recognised as a ... [more]

Gibson Dunn & Crutcher's tax practice handles a wide range of international tax matters, including both inbound and outbound work and is also experienced in litigating tax cases before state and federal courts. Hatef Behnia, is widely recognised as a leading tax lawyer for M&A transactions in the market. Nine lawyers practise in the Los Angeles office. There are also two tax partners in the Orange County office and one associate in Century City.

KPMG's "strong international name recognition" sustains the tax practice's top tier standing, the market believes. The firm advises a broad range of clients in on all forms of tax, including international taxation. The practice is especially adept at ... [more]

KPMG's "strong international name recognition" sustains the tax practice's top tier standing, the market believes. The firm advises a broad range of clients in on all forms of tax, including international taxation. The practice is especially adept at assisting clients with cross-border structuring.

Latham & Watkins' tax practice offers a full range of services such as tax controversy, counselling, benefits and compensation work and supports the transactional practice. Advice on intellectual property migration and licensing agreements is a specialty ... [more]

Latham & Watkins' tax practice offers a full range of services such as tax controversy, counselling, benefits and compensation work and supports the transactional practice. Advice on intellectual property migration and licensing agreements is a specialty in the hi-tech and health industries. Michael Brody is a leader in the Los Angeles area for his focus on REITs (real-estate investment trusts) and is recognised by competitors for his work. The firm notes a surge in both corporate finance and M&A in the past year.

Paul Hastings Janofsky & Walker's is known in Los Angeles for its strong international tax practice. The firm has particular strength in telecommunications and real estate. Its tax practice covers M&A, capital market offerings, joint ventures and private ... [more]

Paul Hastings Janofsky & Walker's is known in Los Angeles for its strong international tax practice. The firm has particular strength in telecommunications and real estate. Its tax practice covers M&A, capital market offerings, joint ventures and private equity.

In March 2011, the tax practice of Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom advised Hitachi Global Storage Technologies in its $4.3 billion acquisition by Western Digital Corporation . Both companies are manufacturers of computer storage drives. Los Angeles ... [more]

In March 2011, the tax practice of Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom advised Hitachi Global Storage Technologies in its $4.3 billion acquisition by Western Digital Corporation . Both companies are manufacturers of computer storage drives. Los Angeles head of tax Moshe Kushman led the transaction. The Los Angeles office handles a significant amount structured finance work, including finance involving REITs and taxable mortgage pools inside and outside of REITs. The firm's clients include large multinational companies, investment banks and underwriters.

Hochman Salkin Rettig Toscher & Perez has an impressive reputation in tax controversy. The tax team handles all forms of litigation, including federal and state civil and criminal cases.

Partners of Irell & Manella's have assisted clients with lobbying to try and influence legislation and regulation. Joel Rabinovitz's expertise in international tax is very highly regarded in the market.

Munger Tolles & Olson's tax department's biggest client is Berkshire Hathaway, the holding company run by Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, which generates a lot of deal work. The client is just one of a large list of corporate and private equity cl... [more]

Munger Tolles & Olson's tax department's biggest client is Berkshire Hathaway, the holding company run by Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, which generates a lot of deal work. The client is just one of a large list of corporate and private equity clients.

O'Melveny & Myers has developed expertise in partnership tax issues. The tax department is known for advising media and entertainment clients. Luc Moritz handles international tax work, including both inbound and outbound transactions.

Dewey & LeBoeuf's Los Angeles tax practice advises high profile insurance and financial clients. The tax department covers transactional tax, corporate tax planning, tax controversy and litigation, taxation of financial products, private equity, lease ... [more]

Dewey & LeBoeuf's Los Angeles tax practice advises high profile insurance and financial clients. The tax department covers transactional tax, corporate tax planning, tax controversy and litigation, taxation of financial products, private equity, lease financing, public finance, insurance, real estate, exempt organisations and legislative matters.

Grant Thornton has a team of advisers that cover all areas of tax advice. Professionals in the practice have extensive business and government experience in China, India, and Latin America.

Loeb & Loeb's tax group in Los Angelese specialises in work for the entertainment and real estates industries. The tax attorneys advise clients in all areas of corporate tax, which has led to expertise in tax issues relating to partnerships and REITs... [more]

Loeb & Loeb's tax group in Los Angelese specialises in work for the entertainment and real estates industries. The tax attorneys advise clients in all areas of corporate tax, which has led to expertise in tax issues relating to partnerships and REITs.

Leah Karlov, of counsel, is Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy's only resident tax practitioner in Los Angeles, but the global tax practice is integrated so lawyers work together on matters throughout the world. Energy transactions have been a feature of ... [more]

Leah Karlov, of counsel, is Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy's only resident tax practitioner in Los Angeles, but the global tax practice is integrated so lawyers work together on matters throughout the world. Energy transactions have been a feature of the work in Los Angeles.

Gary Maeder, Morrison & Foerster's Los Angeles tax partner, has a tax planning and controversy practice, in which he advises partnerships, limited liability companies, S corporations, and public and closely held C corporations on federal income and employment ... [more]

Gary Maeder, Morrison & Foerster's Los Angeles tax partner, has a tax planning and controversy practice, in which he advises partnerships, limited liability companies, S corporations, and public and closely held C corporations on federal income and employment tax matters and state and local income, franchise, sales and use, real and personal property, documentary transfer, business licence and employment tax matters.

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman's Los Angeles tax practice represents multinationals corporations on their US businesses, including the structuring of their M&A and advising on transfer pricing issues. In December 2010, the practice completed its representation ... [more]

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman's Los Angeles tax practice represents multinationals corporations on their US businesses, including the structuring of their M&A and advising on transfer pricing issues. In December 2010, the practice completed its representation of the San Francisco Ballet in two related bond offerings, including the issuance of tax exempt qualified bonds to a financial institution. The deal led by managing partner Dana Newman, combined two related bond offerings and use of expanded tax exempt qualified bond rules.

Proskauer Rose continued to expand its tax practice with the addition of Michael Fernhoff, who joined as a partner in January 2011. Fernhoff is a lawyer with a wide range of experience in tax law, particularly in tax planning for transactions.

Sidley Austin's tax practice in Los Angeles is led by partner Edwin Norris, who practises federal and state corporation taxation, and also has a tax controversy practice. Clients include hedge funds, private equity funds and real estate funds. Ivy Jones, ... [more]

Sidley Austin's tax practice in Los Angeles is led by partner Edwin Norris, who practises federal and state corporation taxation, and also has a tax controversy practice. Clients include hedge funds, private equity funds and real estate funds. Ivy Jones, a partner, and associate Teresa Sun are the other members of the practice.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton's has a highly regarded international tax practice. Peers recognise partner Erika Nijenhuis for her expertise on the taxation of financial products. Kristofer Hess specialises in capital markets, M&A and private equity ... [more]

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton's has a highly regarded international tax practice. Peers recognise partner Erika Nijenhuis for her expertise on the taxation of financial products. Kristofer Hess specialises in capital markets, M&A and private equity investments, with an emphasis on international transactions. Partners in the practice report an increase in M&A activity in the past year.

Avishai Shachar, the head of the tax department, and Neil Barr were part of the Davis Polk & Wardwell team that advised Comcast in connection with its $37 billion NBC Universal joint venture with General Electric. The joint venture will be 51% owned ... [more]

Avishai Shachar, the head of the tax department, and Neil Barr were part of the Davis Polk & Wardwell team that advised Comcast in connection with its $37 billion NBC Universal joint venture with General Electric. The joint venture will be 51% owned by Comcast, 49% owned by GE and managed by Comcast and closed in January 2011. In another transaction in October 2010 Michael Mollerus and associate Devasish Majumdar worked with colleagues from the firm to advise Quicksilver Resources, a Fort Worth, Texas-based oil and gas exploration and production company, on the $1 billion sale of Quicksilver Gas Services, a north Texas-based natural gas exploration and processing company to First Reserve Crestwood Holdings, a portfolio company of the private equity firm First Reserve.

Deloitte recently announced that Todd Wolosoff has become the the firm's US managing partner for transfer pricing, making him the first transfer pricing partner to lead this practice. The firm has remained active throughout the economic downturn, in ... [more]

Deloitte recently announced that Todd Wolosoff has become the the firm's US managing partner for transfer pricing, making him the first transfer pricing partner to lead this practice. The firm has remained active throughout the economic downturn, in fact every area of its tax practice is growing. Clients come to the firm from all industries, but in New York those from the financial services sector are among the most prominent.

Professionals at Ernst & Young's transfer pricing practice are being kept busy as more and more countries add documentation requirements. Restructuring and globalisation are set to drive the future growth of the practice. This will continue to be a priority ... [more]

Professionals at Ernst & Young's transfer pricing practice are being kept busy as more and more countries add documentation requirements. Restructuring and globalisation are set to drive the future growth of the practice. This will continue to be a priority for companies, especially those with operations in emerging markets. The economic downturn required companies to devote a lot of resources to transfer pricing as they began to restructure and close operations overseas. Craig Hillier leads the North East international tax services group.

Peers note that Horacio Peña of PwC is a talented transfer pricing adviser. The firm advises big-name clients on a wide array of tax matters and is recovering from the economic downturn, retaining its first tier status this year.

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom's New York tax department is led by Stuart Finkelstein. Peers note that Finkelstein "does fine work and is an outstanding lawyer." Matthew Rosen, who works in M&A, restructurings and private equity, is also highly recommended ... [more]

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom's New York tax department is led by Stuart Finkelstein. Peers note that Finkelstein "does fine work and is an outstanding lawyer." Matthew Rosen, who works in M&A, restructurings and private equity, is also highly recommended by peers. The tax group represented Bank of America Merrill Lynch as part of a consortium that secured a conditional $1.4 billion commitment from the U.S. Department of Energy's loan programs office to help finance the largest distributed rooftop solar generation project in the world. The loan guarantee will facilitate a total project size of $2.6 billion. Once fully funded and completed, the project's installations are expected to provide enough clean, renewable energy to power 100,000 homes. On May 12 2011 the practice completed its representation of Cephalon, a global biopharmaceutical company, in defence of an unsolicited $5.7 billion takeover bid from Valeant Pharmaceuticals International and its subsequent agreed $6.8 billion acquisition by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited.

Sullivan & Cromwell's New York tax practice works closely with the firm's Washington, DC team on many tax matters. The firm is recognised as having one of the most sophisticated tax practices in New York. Andrew Solomon is recognised as a brilliant tax ... [more]

Sullivan & Cromwell's New York tax practice works closely with the firm's Washington, DC team on many tax matters. The firm is recognised as having one of the most sophisticated tax practices in New York. Andrew Solomon is recognised as a brilliant tax lawyer with a broad practice with a wide range of areas including transactional advice to tax planning and dispute resolution. Donald Korb, who heads the tax controversy practice, splits his time between the New York and Washington, DC. Korb, the former chief counsel of the IRS, is highly praised in the market as one of the country's foremost tax lawyers. In May 2011 the tax team led by Solomon advised Silver Lake Partners on the sale of Skype Global to Microsoft for $8.1 billion. The firm also advised York Capital Management in its sale of a non-controlling stake to Credit Suisse Asset Management for $425 million in December 2010. York, a leading hedge fund manager with $14 billion under management, entered into a definitive agreement to sell Credit Suisse's asset management division a passive, non-controlling, minority interest in York for a combination of cash and a significant earn-out. At the same time, York undertook a significant restructuring of its operations.

The leading lights in Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz's New York tax practice are the four partners: Joshua Holmes, Deborah Paul, Jodi Schwartz and T Eiko Stange,

Cravath Swaine & Moore's tax department has six partners in New York, the only office it has in the US. The tax partners advise on tax issues related primarily to M&A and corporate finance, which have picked up significantly since the economic downtu... [more]

Cravath Swaine & Moore's tax department has six partners in New York, the only office it has in the US. The tax partners advise on tax issues related primarily to M&A and corporate finance, which have picked up significantly since the economic downturn,

Debevoise & Plimpton has 10 tax partners in New York led by partner Burt Rosen, who chairs the firm's tax group. The practice advised American International Group (AIG) and AIA Group Limited in AIA's spin-off from AIG and $20.51 billion initial public ... [more]

Debevoise & Plimpton has 10 tax partners in New York led by partner Burt Rosen, who chairs the firm's tax group. The practice advised American International Group (AIG) and AIA Group Limited in AIA's spin-off from AIG and $20.51 billion initial public offering (IPO) and listing in Hong Kong, constituting the largest IPO in Hong Kong's history and the world's largest IPO in the insurance sector in October 2010. Partner Seth Rosen was the tax partner on the transaction.

KPMG added five partners to its practice in the past year. The firm is strong on matters of international taxation, and is particularly adept at assisting clients with cross-border transactions. The firm advises a broad range of clients. New York economic ... [more]

KPMG added five partners to its practice in the past year. The firm is strong on matters of international taxation, and is particularly adept at assisting clients with cross-border transactions. The firm advises a broad range of clients. New York economic and valuation services leader Rema Serafi is recommended for her transfer pricing work.

Paul Weiss Rifkind & Garrison's tax practice handles work for prominent investment funds. The tax team is recognised by peers for providing advice to clients on transactions in the areas of cross-border transactions, M&A, spin-offs, and joint ventures. ... [more]

Paul Weiss Rifkind & Garrison's tax practice handles work for prominent investment funds. The tax team is recognised by peers for providing advice to clients on transactions in the areas of cross-border transactions, M&A, spin-offs, and joint ventures. Alfred Youngwood has a well-deserved reputation as high-class corporate tax lawyer.

Peter Blessing of Shearman & Sterling is highly regarded as a cross-border structuring and financial products tax lawyer. This year the firm is representing the Aditya Birla Group, a multinational Indian conglomerate, in connection with its agreement ... [more]

Peter Blessing of Shearman & Sterling is highly regarded as a cross-border structuring and financial products tax lawyer. This year the firm is representing the Aditya Birla Group, a multinational Indian conglomerate, in connection with its agreement to acquire Atlanta's Columbian Chemicals Company, with substantial Latin American operations, from One Equity Partners, the merchant banking arm of JPMorgan Chase.

Kim Blanchard of Weil Gotshal & Manges is an excellent tax specialist and her work on cross-border restructuring is well known. The tax group excels in matters related to bankruptcies and restructuring. Notable transactions this year include advising ... [more]

Kim Blanchard of Weil Gotshal & Manges is an excellent tax specialist and her work on cross-border restructuring is well known. The tax group excels in matters related to bankruptcies and restructuring. Notable transactions this year include advising Verizon Communications on the $1.4 billion acquisition of Terremark in January, on which Martin Pollack provided the tax advice and Helyn Goldstein and Michael Kam were part of the team advising Iron Mountain when it sold its online backup and recovery, digital archiving, and electronic discovery business to Autonomy for $380 million in May.

Baker & McKenzie's New York office has seven tax partners led by Robert DeJoy, who specialises in international tax planning, tax controversy and transactional matters. The firm has advised clients such as LVMH in the past year. Marc Levey is a transfer ... [more]

Baker & McKenzie's New York office has seven tax partners led by Robert DeJoy, who specialises in international tax planning, tax controversy and transactional matters. The firm has advised clients such as LVMH in the past year. Marc Levey is a transfer pricing star recommended by peers for his extensive knowledge and expertise.

Partners of Kirkland & Ellis' tax practice are being asked for more tax advice on financing as clients begin to think again about different ways of funding transactions. The firm's New York office has a diverse practice with some focus on private equity ... [more]

Partners of Kirkland & Ellis' tax practice are being asked for more tax advice on financing as clients begin to think again about different ways of funding transactions. The firm's New York office has a diverse practice with some focus on private equity and M&A work.

Mayer Brown's New York office added two new associates this year to its tax practice. The firm represented Wells Fargo in a case concerning the tax treatment of leveraged leases of transit equipment and technical equipment. Leading figures in the practice ... [more]

Mayer Brown's New York office added two new associates this year to its tax practice. The firm represented Wells Fargo in a case concerning the tax treatment of leveraged leases of transit equipment and technical equipment. Leading figures in the practice in New York are David Abbott and Brian Kittle, who, like their firm, have leading reputations for tax controversy and litigation.

Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy's tax practice has represented parties in many leading transactions in the public utility, telecommunications and transportation industries and consults clients in all aspects of tax advice.

Bingham McCutchen's New York tax team consists of four partners, including one that covers executive compensation and employee benefits, two associates and one counsel. Partner James Gouwar concentrates his practice on the tax aspects of structured finance ... [more]

Bingham McCutchen's New York tax team consists of four partners, including one that covers executive compensation and employee benefits, two associates and one counsel. Partner James Gouwar concentrates his practice on the tax aspects of structured finance transactions. Tony Carbone, co-leader of the tax group, has an extensive tax planning and controversy practice.

Linda Swartz of Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft's tax practice is highly praised for her M&A and bankruptcy work by peers, who say she's a leader in the US and international tax markets.

Dewey & LeBoeuf's tax controversy practice is very well regarded by competitors in the market. The firm has advised many high profile clients such as AIG, Barclays, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, ING, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley in the past year. Lawrence ... [more]

Dewey & LeBoeuf's tax controversy practice is very well regarded by competitors in the market. The firm has advised many high profile clients such as AIG, Barclays, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, ING, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley in the past year. Lawrence Hill is highly recognised as a market leader in tax controversy and litigation.

Abigail Pickering Bomba, an M&A and private equity tax lawyer, became a partner of Fried Frank Harris Shriver & Jacobson in July 2011.

McDermott Will & Emery's tax department is led by managing partner Thomas Giegerich, who has a broad planning and transactional practice. Other well-known lawyers in the practice are Peter Faber, Arthur Rosen and John Lutz. The New York tax team includes ... [more]

McDermott Will & Emery's tax department is led by managing partner Thomas Giegerich, who has a broad planning and transactional practice. Other well-known lawyers in the practice are Peter Faber, Arthur Rosen and John Lutz. The New York tax team includes eight partners and six associates.

White & Case's New York tax department is headed by J William Dantzler, who also runs the global tax practice. His strengths are in M&A tax and tax controversy. and has eight partners and 12 other fee earners. The firm's office in New York works closely ... [more]

White & Case's New York tax department is headed by J William Dantzler, who also runs the global tax practice. His strengths are in M&A tax and tax controversy. and has eight partners and 12 other fee earners. The firm's office in New York works closely with the firm's international offices in China, Russia and Singapore in many tax matters.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher has a tax group of 13 in New York, including six partners. Christopher Peters, who covers the tax aspects of M&A, spinoffs, leveraged buyouts and joint ventures, was one of the firm's team that advised UK media production house ... [more]

Willkie Farr & Gallagher has a tax group of 13 in New York, including six partners. Christopher Peters, who covers the tax aspects of M&A, spinoffs, leveraged buyouts and joint ventures, was one of the firm's team that advised UK media production house Tinopolis on its acquisition of BASE, a Californian production company, in August 2011. And Richard Reinhold worked with colleagues from the rest of the firm in July 2011 in advising Fiat on the transactions that saw the US and Canadian government complete the sale of their stakes in Chrysler to the Italian vehicle group.

Winston & Strawn's New York tax practice advises clients in the area of tax law, from planning through audit, appeals and litigation, as well as influencing changes to the law and administrative practices of the government when necessary.

Alston & Bird's tax practice works primarily in cross-border structuring and represents foreign multinational companies and high net worth families and individuals that invest in the US. Edward Tanenbaum is the leading figure in the practice in New Y... [more]

Alston & Bird's tax practice works primarily in cross-border structuring and represents foreign multinational companies and high net worth families and individuals that invest in the US. Edward Tanenbaum is the leading figure in the practice in New York.

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is organised along five service lines, rather than by location only. The US practice was the foundation of the Taxand organisation, which is the biggest independent network of tax advisory firms in the world. Practitioners the ... [more]

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand is organised along five service lines, rather than by location only. The US practice was the foundation of the Taxand organisation, which is the biggest independent network of tax advisory firms in the world. Practitioners the who work from New York and who have leading reputations include Paul Heldermen and Al Liguori.

Chadbourne & Parke has 11 tax partners in New York, though some, such as tax controversy lawyer, Lawrence Rosenberg, are part of other groups in the firm

Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg's New York tax practice has four partners and one associate. Partners Peter Glicklich and Scott Semer advised the Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board in its $350 million acquisition of a 36.9% interest in the Mayflower ... [more]

Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg's New York tax practice has four partners and one associate. Partners Peter Glicklich and Scott Semer advised the Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board in its $350 million acquisition of a 36.9% interest in the Mayflower partnership, which owns a portfolio of 13 regional malls around the US. The firm also handles tax matters at all court levels.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer's tax practice in New York works closely with the firm's Washington, DC office and also has close ties with the firm's corporate lawyers in Europe. The US tax department is led by Gregory May. He advised Alinda Capital ... [more]

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer's tax practice in New York works closely with the firm's Washington, DC office and also has close ties with the firm's corporate lawyers in Europe. The US tax department is led by Gregory May. He advised Alinda Capital Partners on its $300 million investment in bio-energy company agri.capital Group in April 2011. Robert Scarborough, another partner, advises on the tax aspects of financing transactions.

David Raab of Latham & Watkins's tax team in New York has become the global chairman of the tax practice. The practice has 17 practitioners, consisting of six partners and 11 associates. Lisa Watts, who co-chairs the New York group, is a corporate and ... [more]

David Raab of Latham & Watkins's tax team in New York has become the global chairman of the tax practice. The practice has 17 practitioners, consisting of six partners and 11 associates. Lisa Watts, who co-chairs the New York group, is a corporate and partnership tax lawyer.

Linklaters advised DISH Network Corporation in its $20 million acquisition of substantially all of the assets of video-rental merchant Blockbuster in a bankruptcy court approved auction and sale. Associate Francisco Duque and Brian Allen handled the ... [more]

Linklaters advised DISH Network Corporation in its $20 million acquisition of substantially all of the assets of video-rental merchant Blockbuster in a bankruptcy court approved auction and sale. Associate Francisco Duque and Brian Allen handled the transaction. Stephen Land, in New York, is the head of the US tax practice.

In 2010 tax partner David Hardy of Osler Hoskin & Harcourt developed and implemented a multi-billion dollar tax-advantaged intragroup restructuring for a major publicly traded North American company.

Peter Keenan, James Guadiana, and associates David Mattingly and Ari Feder of Torys provided advice on the comprehensive structuring of the complex investment programme of one of the world's largest public pension plan investors, Ontario Teachers' Pension ... [more]

Peter Keenan, James Guadiana, and associates David Mattingly and Ari Feder of Torys provided advice on the comprehensive structuring of the complex investment programme of one of the world's largest public pension plan investors, Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Board in 2011 with net assets worth $100 billion.

Baker & McKenzie's clients include some of the best known names in local clients in Silicon Valley such as Electronic Arts, a video game developer, Facebook, the social networking website, and Bio-Rad Laboratories, a manufacturer for the life sciences ... [more]

Baker & McKenzie's clients include some of the best known names in local clients in Silicon Valley such as Electronic Arts, a video game developer, Facebook, the social networking website, and Bio-Rad Laboratories, a manufacturer for the life sciences industry. Partners in the Silicon Valley office, Scott Frewing, Drew Crousore, and John Peterson are highly regarded for tax controversy. Gary Sprague has a string of top clients in the software industry.

Mike Reichert and Jeff Sokol, of Deloitte's San Francisco's office have tall reputations as corporate tax specialists. Arnold McClellan is also praised for his M&A work.

DLA Piper's San Francisco and Silicon Valley tax practices are one of the largest international tax practices at any law firm in the region. The firm boasts a number of high profile clients, particularly in the software and e-commerce industries. Sang ... [more]

DLA Piper's San Francisco and Silicon Valley tax practices are one of the largest international tax practices at any law firm in the region. The firm boasts a number of high profile clients, particularly in the software and e-commerce industries. Sang Kim continues to build on an already-favourable reputation, especially as a transactional tax lawyer. David Colker is advising an Indian IT service company in an IRS audit after officials proposed a significant upward adjustment for tax under transfer pricing and debt/equity rules. The practice was successful in resolving the issue in favour of its client resulting in a minor transfer pricing adjustment being agreed to close the case. The case established a low cost plus amount as the arm's-length profit of the US subsidiary.

One of the strongest tax firms in the region, Ernst & Young has worked hard to make a success of its San Francisco and Silicon Valley offices. The firm advises clients in the high-tech and technology areas on issues of intangible property migration, ... [more]

One of the strongest tax firms in the region, Ernst & Young has worked hard to make a success of its San Francisco and Silicon Valley offices. The firm advises clients in the high-tech and technology areas on issues of intangible property migration, cost sharing arrangements and royalty rate planning. Rob Terpening, for corporate tax, Robert Giusti and Michael Bumbaca in cross-border structuring and M&A respectively, and Lonnie Brist in transfer pricing, have all made their names in the market.

Fenwick & West's top tier ranking is well merited. Jim Fuller is a leading lawyer in California and is highly praised by peers for his corporate tax transactions. This year the tax team advised Diamond Foods on the $2.4 billion acquisition of Procter ... [more]

Fenwick & West's top tier ranking is well merited. Jim Fuller is a leading lawyer in California and is highly praised by peers for his corporate tax transactions. This year the tax team advised Diamond Foods on the $2.4 billion acquisition of Procter & Gamble brands in a highly unusual transaction called a Reverse Morris Trust transaction. It was tax-free to all involved. The parties believe this is the first RMT transaction to involve a significant amount of international assets, including foreign manufacturing and other international facilities. During the past year the firm was involved in successful billion-dollar M&A transactions that include Hewlett-Packard/ArcSight; AOL/Thing Labs; and ABB Ltd. (a Swedish Company)/Ventyx. David Forst leads the tax practice and has advised on many of the practice's most important transactions, including the AMD/Mubadala multibillion dollar cross-border joint venture and a recent $13 billion Barclays transaction.

McDermott Will & Emery's Silicon Valley office has an impressive list of clients including, Adobe, Bank of America, Buy.com, Chevron, Cisco, Gap, Gilead Sciences, Mercury General and Yahoo. A large percentage of its clients originate in the technology ... [more]

McDermott Will & Emery's Silicon Valley office has an impressive list of clients including, Adobe, Bank of America, Buy.com, Chevron, Cisco, Gap, Gilead Sciences, Mercury General and Yahoo. A large percentage of its clients originate in the technology sector, which is prominent in the northern California region. The practice is led by Frederick Chilton with a team of seven partners and five associates.

Peter Skewes-Cox of PwC maintains an excellent name for cross-border structuring work.

KPMG does extensive work with the region's venture capital community. The practice represents clients in every important industry in Silicon Valley and San Francisco.

Mayer Brown's Palo Alto tax group specialises in corporate tax, transfer pricing, and especially litigation. Cabell Chinnis is highly thought of as a litigator. Matthew Houchens is another with a well-regarded contentious tax practice. Paul DiSangro ... [more]

Mayer Brown's Palo Alto tax group specialises in corporate tax, transfer pricing, and especially litigation. Cabell Chinnis is highly thought of as a litigator. Matthew Houchens is another with a well-regarded contentious tax practice. Paul DiSangro has rejoined the firm as a partner to add even further weight to the firm's tax controversy skills. He specialises in federal and state tax controversies.

Morgan Lewis & Bockius is active in the Bay area as a result of its strong capital markets practice. The Palo Alto office has grown significantly in recent years. Partner Tom Kellerman specialises tax aspects of equity financing and Barton Bassett handles ... [more]

Morgan Lewis & Bockius is active in the Bay area as a result of its strong capital markets practice. The Palo Alto office has grown significantly in recent years. Partner Tom Kellerman specialises tax aspects of equity financing and Barton Bassett handles international tax matters.

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand's West Coast office lost managing director, Doug Wibbing in October 2010, who left to join Armanino McKenna as a partner. The practice continues to grow internationally with its supply chain consulting advice and counsel on international ... [more]

Alvarez & Marsal Taxand's West Coast office lost managing director, Doug Wibbing in October 2010, who left to join Armanino McKenna as a partner. The practice continues to grow internationally with its supply chain consulting advice and counsel on international acquisitions. The firm has advised on numerous reorganisations of China operations of large US west coast companies and continues to provide a fresh approach in the marketplace.

Some highly skilled attorneys in Cooley's Palo Alto office advises on both transactional tax matters and tax controversy work. The firm's clients include Adobe Systems and Verizon Communications.

Morrison & Foerster often advises large Japanese companies because of its large office in Tokyo. The practice has experience of handling tax planning for start-ups and early-stage companies in the new media and high-tech industries as a result of its ... [more]

Morrison & Foerster often advises large Japanese companies because of its large office in Tokyo. The practice has experience of handling tax planning for start-ups and early-stage companies in the new media and high-tech industries as a result of its presence in the Japanese market. Partner Joseph Fletcher, in the firm's San Francisco office, advises on corporate and partnership tax.

Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe is led by managing partner George Wolf, who is well known for his knowledge and experience in international acquisitions and inbound foreign investment.

Laurence Crouch, a tax partner in Shearman & Sterling's Palo Alto's office, has had a string of engagements on the tax aspects of financings this year. For example, he and associate Eileen O'Pray were part of the team that represented the underwriters, ... [more]

Laurence Crouch, a tax partner in Shearman & Sterling's Palo Alto's office, has had a string of engagements on the tax aspects of financings this year. For example, he and associate Eileen O'Pray were part of the team that represented the underwriters, led by Merrill Lynch and Barclays Capital, in the $250 million bond offering by FLIR Systems, a pioneer in night-vision technology, in August 2011. Crouch also worked on the tax aspects of the $1.5 billion credit facility that was arranged for 3M in the same month.

Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati's tax group has maintained a strong presence in San Francisco and Silicon Valley for a long time because of its transactional work. Ivan Humphreys has an assured reputation as a top M&A tax attorney.

Armanino McKenna has become one of the largest and most respected tax, accounting and consulting firms in California. Doug Wibbing joined the tax practice in October 2010 as a partner after leaving Alvarez & Marsal Taxand. The practice has 38 partners ... [more]

Armanino McKenna has become one of the largest and most respected tax, accounting and consulting firms in California. Doug Wibbing joined the tax practice in October 2010 as a partner after leaving Alvarez & Marsal Taxand. The practice has 38 partners and more than 300 tax specialists through its association with Moore Stephens International. The tax team is presently advising on an intra-group structured finance transaction worth more than $1 billion.

Deloitte's Washington tax practice added four new tax directors in the last year, Mark Opper, Jane Rohrs, Richard Sciacca and Frank Strong. The firm services clients in virtually every industry sector, including aerospace and defence, hotels, chemical, ... [more]

Deloitte's Washington tax practice added four new tax directors in the last year, Mark Opper, Jane Rohrs, Richard Sciacca and Frank Strong. The firm services clients in virtually every industry sector, including aerospace and defence, hotels, chemical, automotive, consumer products, retailers, technology, and media and communications. Charlie Temkin is the director of Deloitte's national tax office.

Michael Mundaca, the former assistant secretary of the Treasury for tax policy, has returned to Ernst & Young as co-leader of the firm's national tax department. It means Ernst & Young employs the last two holders of the tax policy office as Eric Solomon ... [more]

Michael Mundaca, the former assistant secretary of the Treasury for tax policy, has returned to Ernst & Young as co-leader of the firm's national tax department. It means Ernst & Young employs the last two holders of the tax policy office as Eric Solomon works there too. Inbound investment work is increasing for the firm.

McDermott Will & Emery's DC office has 16 partners, 11 associates and is led by Stephen Wells. Philip McCarty is advising on the tax aspects as part of a team advising Johnson & Johnson on its $2 billion acquisition of Crucell. Other clients of the firm ... [more]

McDermott Will & Emery's DC office has 16 partners, 11 associates and is led by Stephen Wells. Philip McCarty is advising on the tax aspects as part of a team advising Johnson & Johnson on its $2 billion acquisition of Crucell. Other clients of the firm include, General Mills, Wal-Mart, Ameristar Casinos, Tupperware, The Hillman Company and Met Life.

PwC's clients come to the tax professionals from a wide range of industry sectors. Jeff Maddrey is a well known adviser in the capital markets and financial products areas and Tim Anson has a good reputation as an international tax adviser.

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom's Washington DC partners Paul Oosterhuis and Alan Swirski are assisting Hewlett Packard in litigation in the US Tax Court on foreign tax credits. The trial is set to begin in September 2011. Oosterhuis is a leading cross-border ... [more]

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom's Washington DC partners Paul Oosterhuis and Alan Swirski are assisting Hewlett Packard in litigation in the US Tax Court on foreign tax credits. The trial is set to begin in September 2011. Oosterhuis is a leading cross-border structuring specialist and Hal Hicks had a formidable M&A practice. Pamela Olson is a go-to name for tax controversy. John Breen joined the firm as counsel and national director of transfer pricing in September 2010. Breen is a former partner at Caplin & Drysdale.

Baker & McKenzie's tax professionals counsel US multinational corporations on ways to implement tax strategies that minimise the payment of foreign taxes. Denny Meyer has a strong reputation in tax controversy and litigation. The firm also has a significant ... [more]

Baker & McKenzie's tax professionals counsel US multinational corporations on ways to implement tax strategies that minimise the payment of foreign taxes. Denny Meyer has a strong reputation in tax controversy and litigation. The firm also has a significant practice devoted to advising partnerships, limited liability companies, trusts, S corporations and other pass-through entities concerning the tax consequences of domestic and international transactions.

Bingham McCutchen's Washington tax practice is a market leader. Craig Sharon, the former director of the IRS's advance pricing agreement program, joined the firm in February 2011 as a partner. Clark Armitage, Sharon's deputy at the IRS, also joined as ... [more]

Bingham McCutchen's Washington tax practice is a market leader. Craig Sharon, the former director of the IRS's advance pricing agreement program, joined the firm in February 2011 as a partner. Clark Armitage, Sharon's deputy at the IRS, also joined as counsel. Bill McKee and Scott Farmer are regarded as among the top practitioners in Washington. The firm specialises in tax controversy and litigation matters. The team led by Jasper Howard, Gary Huffman and Jim Bridgeman advised Marathon Oil on the tax implications resulting from the restructuring of the ownership of its subsidiaries and operating assets in 2011.

KPMG's competitors note that the firm is strong on matters of international taxation and is particularly adept at assisting clients with cross-border transactions. The firm advises a broad range of clients.

The Washington DC office of Mayer Brown has eight partners with a heavy concentration on transactional and controversy work. The firm also has expertise in international transfer pricing. Charles Hurley assisted Siemens in a matter involving a challenge ... [more]

The Washington DC office of Mayer Brown has eight partners with a heavy concentration on transactional and controversy work. The firm also has expertise in international transfer pricing. Charles Hurley assisted Siemens in a matter involving a challenge by the IRS to royalties that were prepaid before Siemens' acquisition of the company and which the seller used to increase foreign source income, which was then offset by foreign tax credits that would have otherwise expired. Charlie Triplett is to the fore when anyone discusses leading transfer pricing advisers, though he has a broader practice.

In January 2011 Thomas Zehnle joined Miller & Chevalier Chartered's tax practice from Bryan Cave. The practice has 25 partners and 20 other fee earners, with 13 in the transfer pricing practice. Rocco Femia has well deserved reputation as an international ... [more]

In January 2011 Thomas Zehnle joined Miller & Chevalier Chartered's tax practice from Bryan Cave. The practice has 25 partners and 20 other fee earners, with 13 in the transfer pricing practice. Rocco Femia has well deserved reputation as an international tax lawyer. Marc Gerson is recommended for his strategic advice and controversy practice. Maria Jones practices in the area of federal income taxation with a focus on tax controversy matters.

Steptoe & Johnson is led by Mark Silverman, who is a well regarded corporate tax lawyer. He handles tax planning and transactional and controversy matters. Philip West is known for his cross-border structuring advice for domestic and international cl... [more]

Steptoe & Johnson is led by Mark Silverman, who is a well regarded corporate tax lawyer. He handles tax planning and transactional and controversy matters. Philip West is known for his cross-border structuring advice for domestic and international clients.

Sutherland Asbill & Brennan's Washington tax practice has 36 partners. In October 2010 the practice advised Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Equipment (SBO) in its acquisition of 100% of Drilling Systems International Ltd. SBO will acquire all associated ... [more]

Sutherland Asbill & Brennan's Washington tax practice has 36 partners. In October 2010 the practice advised Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Equipment (SBO) in its acquisition of 100% of Drilling Systems International Ltd. SBO will acquire all associated patents and intellectual property rights. Leading figures in the group include Jerry Libin, Carol Tello and Giovanna Sparagna.

One of the strengths of Caplin & Drysdale's tax practice is its tax controversy practice, which helps clients to resolve issues at the administrative level and in the courts if matters go that far. Patricia Lewis is an authority in transfer pricing.

Dewey & LeBoeuf's tax team advised Molson Coors Brewing Company on the US federal income tax aspects of a significant reorganisation transaction, involving the vast majority of the client's assets totalling more than $1 billion. Joseph Pari and Hap Shashy ... [more]

Dewey & LeBoeuf's tax team advised Molson Coors Brewing Company on the US federal income tax aspects of a significant reorganisation transaction, involving the vast majority of the client's assets totalling more than $1 billion. Joseph Pari and Hap Shashy led the successful transaction in January 2011.

Alan Granwell of DLA Piper, has a deserved reputation among multinational corporations for the breadth of his knowledge from cross-border planning to transfer pricing. The firm runs a truly international tax practice with lawyers, advisers and economists ... [more]

Alan Granwell of DLA Piper, has a deserved reputation among multinational corporations for the breadth of his knowledge from cross-border planning to transfer pricing. The firm runs a truly international tax practice with lawyers, advisers and economists from offices all over the world working closely together when a matter demands it.

Gregory May, who works from Washington, DC is head of US tax for Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. He is a leading adviser on capital markets and financial products taxation. Claude Stansbury is advising ConocoPhillips on its $30 billion arbitration against ... [more]

Gregory May, who works from Washington, DC is head of US tax for Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. He is a leading adviser on capital markets and financial products taxation. Claude Stansbury is advising ConocoPhillips on its $30 billion arbitration against Venezuela arising from that country's expropriation of two Orinoco heavy-crude projects, including a novel claim for consequential US tax damages.

Ivins Phillips & Barker is a niche tax law firm with lawyers that deal with both inbound and outbound matters.

Jones Day has a number well-regarded tax lawyers in its Washington, DC office, including Andrew Eisenberg, who advises on M&A and Ray Wiacek, who oversees the firm's global tax practice, and who is another big name when it comes to the on the tax and ... [more]

Jones Day has a number well-regarded tax lawyers in its Washington, DC office, including Andrew Eisenberg, who advises on M&A and Ray Wiacek, who oversees the firm's global tax practice, and who is another big name when it comes to the on the tax and business aspects of financial and international transactions.

Latham & Watkins's Washington office has nine tax partners. Gerald Kafka is a well known tax controversy specialist.

Shearman & Sterling's seven tax partners in Washington, DC include Michael Shulman, the co-head of the tax group. Others in the office who have established their own reputations in the market are Alfred Groff, Thomas Johnston and Craig Gibian. The group ... [more]

Shearman & Sterling's seven tax partners in Washington, DC include Michael Shulman, the co-head of the tax group. Others in the office who have established their own reputations in the market are Alfred Groff, Thomas Johnston and Craig Gibian. The group provides domestic and international tax planning advice and also advises on tax controversy.

Weil Gotshal & Manges's partners in the tax group have extensive experience in advising debtors, creditors and other investors and have a reputation for innovative strategies. The tax group has excelled at tax matters related to bankruptcies and rest... [more]

Weil Gotshal & Manges's partners in the tax group have extensive experience in advising debtors, creditors and other investors and have a reputation for innovative strategies. The tax group has excelled at tax matters related to bankruptcies and restructuring.

The Bruce Davis-led tax practice of White & Case advised Coca-Cola on the tax implications related to the sale of its shares in Coca-Cola Drycker in Sweden. Before this transaction, the practice represented the parent company in its acquisition of the ... [more]

The Bruce Davis-led tax practice of White & Case advised Coca-Cola on the tax implications related to the sale of its shares in Coca-Cola Drycker in Sweden. Before this transaction, the practice represented the parent company in its acquisition of the North American assets of Coca-Cola Enterprises. The tax team has four partners and 14 other fee earners.

Alston & Bird's dispute resolution and transfer pricing departments have solid reputations among clients.

The Alvarez & Marsal Taxand Washington, DC tax practice has worked on more real estate and tax compliance matters recently. The Taxand global organisation means that in the last 18 months Washington advisers has advised clients from Australia, France, ... [more]

The Alvarez & Marsal Taxand Washington, DC tax practice has worked on more real estate and tax compliance matters recently. The Taxand global organisation means that in the last 18 months Washington advisers has advised clients from Australia, France, India, Poland and the UK.

Covington & Burling advises clients on matters including the tax-efficient structuring of inbound and outbound investments.