The Firm: Proskauer Rose continues to be recognized as New York's leading labor and employment team. The group is routinely relied upon by a host of blue-chip clients in relation to a full range of matters, including labor relations, class action and single plaintiff discrimination litigation, and the labor and employment implications of mergers and acquisitions. The team's exceptional reputation is reflected in its continuing representation of major national sports leagues, including the NFL, NBA and MLB. Other clients include NYSE Euronext and NBC Universal.

Sources Say: "They are the crème de la crème. When it comes to a new area of law or something unique or difficult they are a fabulous place to go."

Key Individuals: Bettina Plevan co-heads both the international labor and employment group and the class action group. She is widely considered to be one of the leading employment litigators in the state, and counts leading law firms and financial institutions among her clients. Sources attest that she "has a way of seeing the strategic end of a long journey before many others do."

Market observers laud the expertise of Paul Salvatore with respect to collective bargaining and litigation and arbitration arising from employment disputes and labor relations. Interviewees note his "bright, knowledgeable, direct" style, and point to his possession of "the one skill most lack - the ability to negotiate a situation." Clients include Ralph Lauren.

Elise Bloom recently achieved a highly favorable settlement for Hanesbrands in relation to a race discrimination suit after successfully achieving summary judgment with respect to harassment and retaliation allegations. She specializes in the representation of employers in individual and class actions.

Howard Ganz is a labor and employment specialist, as well as a recognized authority on sports law. He anchors much of the firm's work for the NBA, which he has represented in collective bargaining negotiations and litigation brought by the National Basketball Players Association.

Kathleen McKenna recently defended Whole Foods Market in relation to a lawsuit alleging a series of employment law violations. Clients confirm that she is "personable but fierce," with one interviewee remarking that "I would trust her in every way possible to do what's in the best interests of the company."

Joseph Baumgarten is praised for his "deep knowledge and pragmatic advice." Recent matters include representing a leading financial institution in relation to a case alleging gender discrimination.

Bernard Plum is co-head of the firm's labor management relations group. He serves clients which include The New York Times and the NBA. Admiring sources relate that "he has no affectations and no pretensions - he distills things very well."