Law Firm News

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Law Firm News

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Robinson & Cole LLP

Robinson & Cole Partner Named President of Real Estate Finance Association
Steven L. Elbaum, chair of the firm's Real Estate Practice Group, had been named president of the Connecticut REFA organization. REFA, or The Real Estate Finance Association is the industry leader in bringing together the best people and information in real estate finance and provides quality education programs and networking opportunities for real estate professionals.

08-07-2007

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Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP

Paul, Weiss Tops Asian M&A Legal Adviser League Table
Asian Venture Capital Journal placed the firm at the top of their league table for the first half of 2007 with more than $2 billion in completed deals for our clients, including Citigroup's acquisition of Nikko Cordial Securities in Japan, Hutchison Telecommunications' sale of its interest in Hutchison Essar in India and Polo Ralph Lauren's acquisition of its Japan licensee.

08-07-2007

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Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP

Paul, Weiss Represents Goldman Sachs in Asian Film Fund Transaction With The Weinstein Company
The Weinstein Company announced the launch of a $285 million film fund, which will finance the development, production, acquisition, marketing and distribution of various Asian-themed films over the next six years. Paul, Weiss represented Goldman Sachs, which will be structuring the fund and acting as exclusive placement agent. The Paul, Weiss team included corporate partners Bob Zochowski and Larry Wee, counsel Stephen Koo and associates Leslie Inamasu, Gary Li and Stephen Stites; tax partner Jeff Samuels and associates Eric Lowenstein and Rucia Pei; and employee benefits counsel Larry Witdorchic and associate Lauren Voss; and summer associate Beatrix Bong.

08-07-2007

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McGuireWoods LLP

Chambers USA Recognizes McGuireWoods as a Leading Law Firm in the United States
Chambers & Partners recognized McGuireWoods LLP in 20 practice areas and identified 38 lawyers as leaders in their areas in its 2007 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business.

In compiling its annual client guide of leading lawyers, Chambers & Partners interviewed a large number of clients and conducted scores of independent lawyer peer reviews around the nation to determine the top business law firms and attorneys in the United States.

Chambers ranked McGuireWoods in the top band nationally in the practice areas of Wealth Management and Transportation (road infrastructure). In the wealth management area, Chambers commented in particular on the work and reputation of lawyers Ronald D. Aucutt and Dennis I. Belcher. Aucutt received peer praise for being an “outstanding planner who marches to the beat of his own drum.” Belcher was cited as “phenomenal” and known by his peers as being “technically excellent with good judgment.”

In transportation, Chambers noted that McGuireWoods, together with its wholly owned government relations subsidiary, McGuireWoods Consulting, enjoys a reputation for “quality legal work” and a “very sophisticated public sector capability.” In addition, the McGuireWoods team is cited as “experienced in working with local government and can bring together the parties for a project and counsel them on the structuring of its transactions.”

Chambers also singled out McGuireWoods’ offices and lawyers in five states. The publication cited sources as saying that Gordon R. Alphonso, who is the chair of the firmwide Land Use and Environmental Department and is located in the firm’s Atlanta office, is “great at air work.”

Chambers recognized McGuireWoods’ Healthcare Practice in Chicago, noting “competitors are quick to highlight the depth of healthcare expertise at this ‘exceptional firm.’” The co-chairs of the firm’s Health Care Department, Scott Becker and James B. Riley Jr., were singled out for their skills. Commentators said of Becker that he has “made his mark in the field,” and Riley was described as a “standout attorney.”

McGuireWoods’ Labor and Employment practice in Chicago also was recognized. Henry deVos Lawrie Jr., whose practice focuses on employee benefits and executive compensation, was lauded as “one of the top benefits lawyers in Chicago.” Richard E. Lieberman, who focuses his practice on employment litigation and advising companies on employment law, was described as a “well-known top-tier guy,” and Richard L. Menson, who handles executive compensation and employee benefits-related matters for a wide variety of businesses, was characterized as “highly visible.”

McGuireWoods’ Land Use and Environmental Practice, noted for its national reach, also was mentioned as one of the leading environmental firms in Chicago. Chambers singled out James T. Harrington, who has devoted most of his career to environmental law and litigation. He was described by peers as “one of the éminences grises of Chicago.”

Chambers described McGuireWoods’ Labor and Employment Practice in Baltimore as being comprehensive and clients cited the firm as “doing a good job” and “serving a significant base of long-standing clients.” Douglas M. Topolski, who focuses on employee relations, labor relations and litigation, is described as an “excellent attorney who is revered for his intellect and known as an immensely hard worker.”

Chambers selected David M. Wells in McGuireWoods’ Jacksonville, Fla., office as one of the leading lawyers for General Commercial Litigation. His nationwide practice focuses on litigating complex contract, securities, and corporate control/fiduciary duty claims, as well as the gamut of business tort actions. Chambers commented that Wells was “deserving of kudos,” and that he impressed clients with his “‘understated, calm and effective performances in court,’” as well as his “‘dexterity in a broad range of business disputes.’”

Chambers recognized the predominant position of McGuireWoods’ reputation for Corporate/M&A work in Richmond. It cited Robert L. Burrus Jr., McGuireWoods’ chairman emeritus, who primarily engaged in corporate and fiduciary counseling, mergers and acquisitions and shareholder disputes. He is described by clients to Chambers as an “‘excellent business lawyer.’” Clifford A. Cutchins IV, a member of the firm’s Mergers & Acquisitions, Securities & Corporate Services Department, is described in Chambers as “an M&A deal-doer,” a “well-reputed” and “strong lawyer” with “great commercial judgment as a result of his in-house business experience.” Leslie A. Grandis, who concentrates his practice in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, finance, securities and business law, is described as “an excellent high-energy practitioner.”

Joanne Katsantonis, who chairs McGuireWoods’ Energy and Utilities Department, is recognized as “very capable.” Chambers notes that “she enters Chambers’ rankings on the strength of her ‘prolific deal-making.’”

Chambers also recognized McGuireWoods’ Environmental Practice, which the guidebook noted has “long-standing experience and relationships with the state, federal and local agencies, ensuring that they are always at the forefront of regulatory enforcement actions and changes in legislation.”

Four McGuireWoods’ lawyers who are members of the firm’s Land Use and Environmental Department are highlighted for their practice, including “preeminent” water lawyer David E. Evans, who, Chambers notes, has “garnered praise for being ‘straightforward and enjoyable to work with – he has grown up in the environmental field and understands it inside out.’” Chambers noted that John M. Lain, who focuses primarily on environmental issues associated with business transactions and development, “has received warm praise for his ‘brilliant communication skills and willingness to work ceaselessly till the bitter end of a deal,’” and is described as a “top choice for complex transactions because of the sheer breadth of his expertise.” Chambers wrote that according to clients, the “excellent” Daniel K. Slone, an environmental lawyer who represents developers and communities in overcoming the land use and environmental permitting impediments to small and large-scale projects such as new towns, utilities and industrial facilities, “offers a result-oriented approach and great advocacy skills.” Chambers points out that “interviewees marveled at his land use and environmental permitting expertise.”

James A. Thornhill also was recognized by Chambers for his environmental legal practice. The guidebook said Thornhill “won client recommendations for his expertise on environmental and land use matters relating to real estate and corporate transactions and brownfield redevelopments.”

Chambers characterized McGuireWoods’ Intellectual Property Practice in Virginia as “substantial and dedicated.” Chair of McGuireWoods’ IP Litigation/Patents Department, Brian C. Riopelle, who is an intellectual property litigator, is described in the book by his peers as being “bright and knowledgeable.” Robert M. Tyler, an intellectual property litigator and counselor who focuses largely on advertising, trademark and copyright issues, is described by peers interviewed by Chambers as “one of the premier people in copyright protection.”

McGuireWoods’ Labor and Employment Practice is recognized by Chambers as one of the best in Virginia, which the book describes as having “depth, breadth and history,” as well as having “devoted time to establishing and maintaining a strong employment law practice.” Clients praised McGuireWoods’ Labor and Employment Department’s “flexibility and responsiveness,” ‘noting in particular its cost efficiency and integrated use of technological resources.’”

Four members of the firm’s Labor and Employment Department in Virginia are singled out for their particular expertise. Chambers notes that Jonathan P. Harmon, a national trial lawyer, with “‘his star in the ascendant,’ has fulfilled his early promise with ‘remarkably capable trial work.’” According to the guide, “the market perception is that Gary S. Marshall,” who practices traditional labor law and employment law, is “‘coming on as some of his elder colleagues step back.’” Chambers wrote that James P. McElligott, who handles employment, executive compensation and benefit related matters, is described by sources as “a fine ambassador for his firm” and “an excellent employment lawyer now focused on ERISA and benefits issues.” Chambers points out that Stephen W. Robinson, who is primarily focused on labor and employment law, with an emphasis on litigation, is portrayed as “a phenomenal litigator” with “a depth and breadth of knowledge that is second to none.” One peer noted, “For my money, he’s the best in the state and has been for years.” Sources characterize the “highly esteemed” W. Carter Younger, who represents management in the areas of employment discrimination, union-management relations, international employment, executive employment contracts, and government regulation of the employment relationship, as “experienced, has a top-notch reputation, and undertakes more of the traditional union-fighting work.”

McGuireWoods’ Commercial Litigation Practice in Virginia is described in Chambers as “well regarded by peers and clients alike.” Interviewees commended the firm’s “significant and excellent lawyers.” Six of the firm’s lawyers, representing different aspects of the litigation practice, are cited in the current Chambers guide. William G. Broaddus, who has coordinated or participated in a variety of disputes including federal and state constitutional, contract, commercial credit, public finance, libel, land use, local government, employer-employee, products liability, government contracts and environmental litigation, is characterized by sources as an “all-around talented and excellent lawyer.” Richard Cullen, who is Chairman of McGuireWoods and specializes in government investigations, is described as “terrific and talented.” A member of McGuireWoods’ Complex Product Liability Department, William H. King Jr., who has specialized in the management of national products liability defense litigation for more than 20 years, is portrayed by his peers as “thorough, creative and imaginative, with a lot of energy.” Characterized as “great and credible,” Rosewell Page III, whose practice focuses on litigation management and trial work, is commended by peers for his “outstanding knowledge of products liability law.” According to interviewees of Chambers, Anne Marie Whittemore is a “wonderful lawyer and a major player.” She has broad experience in complex commercial litigation at the trial and appellate levels, including general corporate, securities, environmental, and constitutional litigation. She also advises on corporate governance.

Chair of McGuireWoods’ Environmental Litigation/Toxic Tort Department, Steven R. Williams is cited by the Chambers guide for defending clients in mass tort and commercial class action claims in state and federal courts in antitrust, toxic tort and medical device litigation.

Chambers describes McGuireWoods’ Real Estate Practice in Virginia as having a “strong presence,” which has impressed clients by its “size and national scope.” Among the six McGuireWoods’ lawyers who are cited in this area, John W. Bates III is described by sources as a “proactive and intelligent gentleman” who, according to Chambers, “offers longstanding real estate and zoning experience.” Clients singled out John V. Cogbill III, who is involved in many important zoning cases and also is involved in transportation-related projects, as a “highly effective land use lawyer” who is “superbly intelligent and a great human being.” Chambers notes that Carson Lee Fifer, who maintains a diverse practice focused on land use and environmental law, real estate law, affordable housing and sports law, received “strong client feedback” for his real estate advice which “makes both legal and business sense.” Chambers listed Gloria L. Freye in the guide, describing her as “increasingly prominent on the basis of warm client feedback on her zoning, permitting and development practice.” According to Chambers, T. Craig Harmon, who routinely represents participants in sale-leaseback, bond lease financing and similar transactions, was “recommended for advising national and international clients on project finance and lease finance transactions,” and clients singled him out as a “highly effective land use lawyer.” Nancy R. Little, deputy managing partner of McGuireWoods, is described in Chambers as a “national leader for real estate financing and leasing – few can surpass her technical excellence.” In particular, clients applauded her “client-oriented approach.”

08-07-2007

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Covington & Burling, P.C.

Covington Advises Cenkos Securities on Tanfield Group’s £115 million placing
Covington & Burling LLP acted for Cenkos Securities plc in its role as nominated adviser and joint broker to Tanfield Group Plc in Tanfield’s £115 million placing of ordinary shares. Tanfield, the AIM-listed manufacturer of zero emission electric vehicles and aerial work platforms, will use part of the proceeds from the placing to fund the cash element of the $100 million consideration for the acquisition of US-based Snorkel Holdings LLC, a worldwide supplier of high quality industrial aerial work platforms.

Covington’s appointment for the transaction marks the first time it has represented Cenkos Securities. Stephen Keys of Cenkos Securities commented: “We were looking for a firm with a solid reputation for advising on AIM transactions which also had the expertise to guide us through the complex issues that often arise in deals with a significant US element.”

Simon Amies, corporate partner and head of the AIM practice at Covington said: “We’re delighted to have been appointed by Cenkos on this deal. This was not a straightforward domestic assignment and gave the Covington team a perfect opportunity to utilise our experience and expertise in advising on complex trans-Atlantic transactions.”

The Covington team comprised London-based corporate partner Simon Amies and senior corporate associate Gregor Frizzell, with senior counsel Tod Ackerly advising on US securities laws matters.

08-07-2007

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Covington & Burling, P.C.

AIM High: Covington Advises US Biotech Northwest Biotherapeutics on its AIM IPO
Covington & Burling LLP announces its role in advising US biotechnology company Northwest Biotherapeutics, Inc. on its admission to AIM and £15 million placing, which valued the company at approximately £68 million on a fully-diluted basis. The transaction was particularly complex due to Northwest's quotation on the OTC Bulletin Board in the United States and its status as an SEC reporting company. The marketing of the AIM offering had to be carefully structured and managed to ensure it satisfied Regulation S of the SEC’s rules, which permits offers and sales made by US companies outside the United States to proceed without the need to file a registration statement with the SEC, while simultaneously ensuring the company fulfilled its SEC reporting obligations.

Northwest Biotherapeutics is focused on the clinical development of immunotherapy products for the treatment of cancer. Its technology platform, DCVax®, uses a patient’s own dendritic (immune) cells, which are loaded with proteins or antigens extracted from the cancer tumour and then injected back into the patient. The company’s product candidates have been demonstrated in clinical trials to significantly extend both time to recurrence of disease and survival, whilst providing a superior quality of life with no debilitating side effects when compared with current cancer therapies.

Northwest’s lead product candidate, which targets Glioblastoma Multiforme, the most lethal form of brain cancer, has entered a pivotal Phase II clinical trial, and the company hopes to file for FDA approval in approximately two years. Northwest recently announced that it had received confirmation from the Swiss regulatory authorities that its brain cancer product had received “authorization for use” allowing it be used to treat patients diagnosed with glioma (a form of brain cancer) in selected medical centres in Switzerland. As such, Northwest’s brain cancer product is the first commercially available therapeutic vaccine for the treatment of brain cancer. In addition to its brain cancer product, Northwest has a prostate cancer product candidate which has been cleared by the FDA to commence a pivotal Phase III clinical trial. DCVax® is a platform technology which the company believes can be developed to treat most types of cancer; in addition to its brain and prostate product candidates, additional INDs using DCVax® have been cleared by the FDA for five other cancers - lung, ovarian, liver, head and neck, and pancreas.

The Covington team was led by Simon Amies, a corporate partner in the European Corporate Group, and included US securities partner Peter Laveran, EU life sciences and regulatory partner Grant Castle, patent special counsel Sinan Utku, corporate associates Tom Kollar and James Baillieu, and corporate trainee Shamma Iqbal. The London team was also supported by Washington-based life sciences associate Grail Sipes and employee benefits specialists partner Mike Francese and associate Katherine Mineka.

Simon Amies commented: “We are delighted to have assisted Northwest Biotherapeutics on its admission to AIM, which we believe sets it up well to execute its strategy for commercialisation of its product candidates.”

“Covington is perfectly positioned to advise businesses in the life sciences sector on corporate matters due to the firm’s longstanding food & drug and regulatory expertise on both sides of the Atlantic, and a transaction of this nature undoubtedly requires a sophisticated understanding of the industry. In addition to our extensive AIM expertise, Covington’s London-based US securities capabilities were critical to the deal’s successful completion.”

08-07-2007

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Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC

Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney Attorney Named in 2007 Lawyers on the Fast Track
Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC announced today that Sean Sullivan, an associate in the firm's Litigation Section, has been selected as one of 35 Pennsylvania attorneys named in this year's list of Lawyers on the Fast Track. In conjunction with The Legal Intelligencer and Pennsylvania Law Weekly, a panel of judges selected individuals who were nominated as the future leaders of the state's legal community.

Sullivan and the other individuals will be honored at the annual Fast Track Dinner at the Crystal Tea Room on September 20, 2007. The lawyers will also be profiled in a supplement to The Legal on September 24, 2007.

About Sullivan

Sean R. Sullivan focuses his practice on defending financial institutions and other parties in class action litigation. Other areas in which he has experience include products liability, toxic torts and insurance coverage. He is a published author on litigation topics and served as a course planner and faculty member for the Pennsylvania Bar Institute program "Practical Pre-Trial Practice."

Sullivan received his J.D. degree, magna cum laude, from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where he was elected to Order of the Coif. He received his B.A. degree with high honors from Lehigh University. Following law school, he served as a law clerk to the Honorable Justin M. Johnson of the Pennsylvania Superior Court.

08-07-2007

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