Farella Braun + Martel Ranked As A Leading California Law Firm By Chambers USA Directory
2006 Rankings Highlight the Firm's Strength in Construction, Environment, Insurance, Intellectual Property and Commercial Litigation
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (June 2, 2006): Farella Braun + Martel LLP received top rankings in the Chambers USA Guide to America's Leading Lawyers for Business. The firm was recognized as one of the leading law firms in California in the areas of Construction, Environment, Insurance, Intellectual Property and Commercial Litigation.
Chambers USA ranks both law firms and attorneys. For the U.S. directory, more than 10,000 in-depth interviews were conducted with clients and private-practice attorneys. Law firms and individual attorneys are ranked on a scale of 1 - 6. Qualities on which the rankings are assessed include technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial awareness/astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other qualities most valued by the client.
The firm's Construction practice (ranked # 2) received a strong endorsement as a "dream team of 13 lawyers" who do a "fine job" protecting their clients' interests. This success stems from the highly qualified attorneys and their "highly personable lawyers who are acknowledged for their interactive approach. Farella Braun + Martel attorneys recognized as leaders in this field were Alan Harris (ranked #1), Charles Sink (ranked #1), and Deborah Ballati (ranked #2).
Farella Braun + Martel's Environmental practice (ranked # 3) scored highly with clients who valued the firm's "strong support and excellent legal advice." The group of around 20 was described as "highly experienced." Farella attorneys recognized as leaders in this field were James Bruen (ranked #1) and Deborah Schmall (ranked #3).
The Insurance Coverage practice (ranked # 3) was noted for its "high-quality policyholder practice" in the field of insurance coverage. The group represents policyholders in disputes related to such issues as construction delays and defects, product liability and environmental liabilities. Damages from natural disasters, such as fires and earthquakes, also feature in its repertoire. Working in tandem with other specialists at the firm, the team has helped clients recover costs stemming from antitrust and IP violations. Its reach also extends to counseling prominent clients on structuring insurance coverage programs that are acceptable to various governmental agencies. Recognized as leaders in this field were William Friedrich (ranked #3) and Mary McCutcheon (ranked #3).
The Intellectual Property team (ranked #4) was recognized as "gifted and reliable" lawyers that deal with complex trade secret, patent, trademark, copyright, antitrust, technology licensing and technology-related disputes. As well as serving clients from the semiconductor, software and biotech industries, the team has particular experience of acting for major clients in motion pictures, satellites, communications equipment, wine making. John Cooper (ranked #4) was noted at Farella Braun + Martel for complex IP matters.
The Commercial Litigation practice (ranked # 3) was described as a "committed and effective litigation department." The firm was recognized as "thriving" in its handling of insurance defense practice, acting for insureds. Other specialties include defense of securities class actions, IP-related matters and environmental litigation. Doug Young was recognized as a leader in the fields of white-collar crime and government investigations (ranked #1) and commercial litigation (ranked #2).
About Farella Braun + Martel LLP
Since its founding in 1962, Farella Braun + Martel has achieved a national reputation for the acumen of its business practice, the high profile cases of its complex commercial litigation practice and its prestigious client base. The San Francisco-based firm serves a diverse group of clients from multinational corporations to emerging businesses. The firm also has an office in the Napa Valley focused on the wine industry and related businesses.
Press Contacts:
Melinda Faith / Traci Stuart
Allison Blattel Professional Services Group
415.397.4811
Cheryl Loof
Farella Braun + Martel LLP
415.954.4433
