The Firm: Proskauer Rose is distinguished by the strength of its private equity practice in Southern California. Notably, the firm represented The Promenade Trust, the beneficiary of which is Lisa Marie Presley, with respect to the acquisition of CKx by Apollo Global Management. M&A highlights include representing Ares Management in its acquisition of GTEC; other key clients include The Gores Group and Stream Global Services.

Sources Say: "An extremely robust practice."

Key Individuals: Practice head Michael Woronoff is a "very, very skilled lawyer who brings a business mindset toward problem solving," sources say. One client added: "He works tirelessly and is always available, and has the ability to communicate complicated issues effectively - he's amazing."

The up-and-coming Monica Shilling co-heads the private equity practice. "She has a wonderful business and adversary manner - she is quite superb at what she does," sources enthuse. She advised The Milestone Aviation Group in connection with the sale of a $500 million equity interest to a large private equity firm.