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In the coming months, Forbes will debut its inaugural list of America’s Top M&A Lawyers—a recognition designed to spotlight the finest attorneys in the field of mergers and acquisitions. As with all such Forbes lists, the Top M&A Lawyers is based on a rigorous, multi-stage process of editorial research and analysis that identifies premier practitioners who have impressive track records and are leaders in the field. Forbes’ methodology and assessment process was designed by an editorial team with broad experience in law practice and knowledge of the legal marketplace. The team identified a wide pool of eligible candidates through interviews with industry insiders, outside nominations, editorial research, and recommendations from an independent advisory board of experts, as well as outreach through law firms and local, state and national bar associations. Candidates considered are superlative attorneys who have been part of blockbuster deals of over $1 billion, with impressive client lists and a track record of success. Researchers conduct in-depth evaluations of each candidate based on a variety of weighted criteria. Involvement in structuring joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions and dispositions, activist takeover and defense, financing arrangements, and similar matters are all considered. Metrics such as total deal value and volume over the past twelve months, along with the attorney’s role, are part of the assessment. In curating the M&A list, we look at big deals, but also consider factors such as influence in the field, reputation, thought leadership and broader involvements. Although a lawyer’s lifetime legal achievements were considered, emphasis is placed on the most recent accomplishments. Thousands of finalists from a variety of backgrounds and jurisdictions are reviewed. The resulting is a collection of elite lawyers delivering the finest representation in the M&A field—and now, carrying Forbes’ recognition as the best in the business. As with all Forbes lists, no fee or payment of any kind was required for candidates to be considered or to make the list. For questions about this list, email lawyerlist@forbes.com Got a tip? Share confidential information with Forbes. Editorial StandardsReprints & Permissions
