The Firm: This firm's sophisticated benefits practice has recently seen an influx of work relating to the impending healthcare changes. The group is well placed to advise on corporate deals and private equity matters, and it frequently acts for both CEOs and companies throughout retention and severance programs and transactions. The group recently represented the American Federation of Musicians regarding its pension plan fund. Other key clients include Citi, Amgen, the National Hockey League and the National Basketball Association.

Sources Say: "Their attorneys are knowledgeable, practical and they understand issues in a business context."

Key Individuals: Michael Sirkin is well known for his representation of high-profile executive clients in the negotiation of compensation packages. Sources say: "He checks all the conflicts out and really makes sure the client is well represented."

His colleague Rory Albert is co-head of the practice. Clients say: "He is an excellent, top-notch consensus builder - an ideas person - he brings new ideas and solutions to the table and he has a way of making things happen." He has been a key figure in the firm's representation of the American Federation of Musicians.