The Firm: This compact practice impresses clients with its high-quality service on employee benefits and executive compensation schemes at both partner and associate level. Of late, the attorneys have been particularly active advising on challenges posed by the healthcare reform legislation. Notable clients include EMC, Eaton Vance and the University of Richmond.

Sources Say: "The firm is excellent in terms of its legal abilities and analysis, and also strives to adopt a practical approach in everything it does."

Key Individuals: Peter Marathas "personifies the concept of being incredibly knowledgeable in his legal answers while bearing in mind the real framework of what a business needs," note interviewees. His wide-ranging expertise spans defined contribution and defined benefit retirement plans, ESOPs, ERISA and general corporate governance issues.