Chambers USA 2005 Client's Guide Places Bartlit Beck Attorneys at the Top
Chicago Litigation:
"The Firm: The firm's brand of litigation has been likened to 'well-aimed nukes in a conflict situation.' commentators said. One of the most successful litigation specialists nationwide, its concentrated focus on complex courtroom battles draws distinction. With offices in Denver and Chicago, about 35 partners with "unparalleled experience of going to trial" participate in some of the most important cases around."
"The Lawyers: Superb Philip Beck 'can blow anyone away,' observers said. He successfully acted for Residential Funding Corporation in a breach of contract dispute with DeGeorge Financial Corporation; the case resulted in a $96 million jury verdict in favor of the firm's client. Having created a 'spectacular reputation," Fred Bartlit is viewed as a 'trial attorney extraordinaire' whose expertise successfully combines technical mastery with courtroom finesse. Known as counsel to George Bush in the 2000 presidential election, he has participated in disputes involving patents, products liability, white-collar crime and securities among others. New to the rankings is the 'excellent and hard-working' Adam Hoeflich, who has defended Bayer in litigation emanating from the withdrawal of Baycol, a cholesterol-lowering drug."
Denver Litigation:
"The Firm: Interviewees expressed universal admiration for this firm of trial litigators. 'The firm's name alone is a good enough advertisement,' said one source. Interviewees agree that it is 'just an absolutely top-level firm,' because it offers 'the ability and experience to take any case to trial.' The firm's practice is now so national in scope that it is felt to be more visible outside Colorado than within it. As well as the enormous resources available at the firm, and the experience on offer, Bartlit Beck attorneys are well known for their hi-tech approach to managing litigation, and their trailblazing use of alternative fee structures."
"The Lawyers: With his high-profile nationwide practice, 'everyone talks about' Fred Bartlit. He is held in the highest regard by peers, and is particularly noted for his 'remarkable' courtroom performances. He has defended clients such as General Motors and Bayer at trial. Bartlit recently defended private equity firm, Forstmann, Little & Co., against a claim brought by the State of Connecticut's pension funds, a case which was followed closely by the national media. 'Very effective litigator' Donald Scott is also known nationally, especially for his successful defense of NL Industries in the widely reported lead paint claims brought in Maryland and Rhode Island.
Denver Corporate Group:
"The Firm: Bartlit Beck's compact but influential corporate team has been consistently busy over the past year. This is due in part to its strong foothold in the energy and mining sectors, which have been active despite the recession affecting other parts of Colorado's business community. Here, its share of major transactions includes the $1 billion acquisition of most of the US coal operations of German company, RAG Coal International, by First Reserve and Blackstone Capital Partners. As this also suggests, the group has considerable experience in private equity acquisitions and financing. The firm's ability to pull off big deals with small teams, and its flexibility over fee arrangements, have proved hits with clients.
"The Lawyers: According to peers, James Palenchar is 'pretty close to the top of the pack.' His 'consistently high quality' has helped him carve out a 'fantastic reputation' nationwide. Sources particularly noted his work for First Reserve. During the past year, he advised Alpha Natural Resources on a senior loan note offering and secured revolving credit facility with a combined value of $350 million. Colleague Tom Stephens is experienced in M&A and securities work. His recent highlights include representing Sterling Holding Company in a $60 million merger with Stratos Lightwave (a US public company). Post-merger, Stephens continues to provide the merged company with strategic legal advice.