The Firm: This mid-market national practice has acted on numerous Chapter 11 cases in recent times. It has also been involved in representing distressed businesses, as well as hedge funds and the portfolio companies of private equity sponsors. The practice has an emphasis on the company side, but the lawyers also undertake some lender work.

Sources Say:"The addition of two partners in early 2009 has given the Chicago office the gravitas to be a player."

Key Individuals: Mark Thomas acts for debtors and borrowers in Chapter 11 cases and workouts across the USA. "He has seen innumerable matters and really knows how to move the ball down the field," interviewees report. Jeff Marwil has similarly extensive experience and has recently shifted his focus more towards distressed hedge fund work. He is a "tenacious bulldog of a lawyer," say interviewees in praise.