June 10, 2010

Firm is again at the top of the Louisiana Corporate/M&A rankings in Chambers USA

Here is what the 2010 Chambers USA has to say about us:

Banking and Finance: Louisiana

THE FIRM This boutique business firm has a highly regarded banking team, well known for its representation of financial institutions. The team has specialist knowledge in the complex area of tax credit financing, recently representing Whitney National Bank in the construction of a large nonprofit organization headquarters. 

Sources Say: "The group brings innovation, sophistication and focus to every transaction."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The efficient and responsive Sterling Scott Willis is a transactional banking attorney, well recognized for his representation of banks on the lending side. He has also been active in maritime finance, credit facilities and workouts.

Corporate/M&A: Louisiana

THE FIRM This boutique business firm is an undisputed leader in corporate, M&A and securities work throughout the state. It regularly advises on large M&A transactions, public and private offerings and trust and estate issues. The group recently advised Rouses Supermarkets on its acquisition of 20 stores in Louisiana and Mississippi. In addition, the group is heavily involved in large capital raisings, both public and by private placement. It recently worked with the investment banking arm of Capital One Southcoast on a range of capital-raising activities.

Sources Say: "This high-caliber group gives sophisticated corporate advice and plenty of individual attention."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Preeminent figure Louis Fishman brings a wealth of experience to corporate transactions and estate matters. He is a mentor to peers and clients and recently represented a management team on an acquisition by a private equity firm. Sources say: "He is extremely detail-oriented, an excellent negotiator and takes a client-focused approach." Robert Walmsley is recognized for his sophisticated transactional expertise. He worked with the State of Louisiana and its property manager, SMG, on the negotiation of facility leases with professional sports teams. John Werner is a go-to lawyer for private equity transactions and investments involving tax credits. He has worked on a number of domestic and international aircraft acquisitions. Paul Haygood, a counsel to the firm, is a deeply experienced corporate attorney with particular strength in estate planning and tax.

Commercial Litigation: Louisiana

THE FIRM The litigation group at this commercial boutique is lauded for its creative and effective approach to trials. The group has an outstanding reputation for its capacity to handle high-level, complex litigation, including securities and banking regulatory matters. It is currently representing a venue management company in a complicated auction rate bond-related case.

Sources Say: "The group is extremely good at anticipating the curve-balls in a case." 

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "dynamic and talented" James Swanson focuses on securities litigation, working on cases involving some of the largest investment banks in the USA. Media law expert Loretta Mince continues to impress sources with her First Amendment expertise. Elsewhere, she continues to act on litigation relating to Hurricane Katrina. Joseph Peiffer is well regarded in the securities area, representing individuals against broker-dealer firms.

Real Estate: Louisiana

Sterling Scott Willis of Fishman Haygood Phelps Walmsley Willis & Swanson L.L.P. "is one of those guys who knows so much about real estate, he makes your business easy." He has recently worked with a large supermarket chain on its acquisition of stores in Louisiana.

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