International law firm Dorsey & Whitney LLP has been named a “Top Ranked Firm” by Chambers and Partners in their annual review of the US legal services market. Dorsey has 56 attorneys ranked by Chambers in 2009, up from 47 in 2008. In addition, 23 Dorsey practices are ranked in 2009, up from 21 in 2008.

“These rankings highlight the expertise of Dorsey attorneys and the strength of the Dorsey platform”, noted Marianne D. Short, Dorsey’s Managing Partner. “We have highly ranked lawyers and practices across the country, and our clients have come to rely on that depth and breadth. I am especially pleased by the nearly 20% increase in the number of Dorsey attorneys ranked as it reflects the superb quality of the firm’s lawyers across an array of practice areas and numerous offices.”

A sampling of Chambers editorial includes:

 

  • MN - Corporate/M&A: The “prominent and preeminent attorneys” at Dorsey & Whitney make up one of the strongest corporate groups in Minnesota. The firm provides service equivalent to that of large West Coast firms at a more reasonable price, according to interviewees.

  • MN – Labor & Employment: Dorsey is the “600-pound gorilla” of the local labor and employment market. The firm has always been strong on the employment side, and is bolstering its traditional labor practice.

  • MN – Litigation - General Commercial: “When complicated or high-risk matters surface, Dorsey stands out.” With 90 lawyers grouped into specialized teams, the firm is well equipped to handle financial and commercial litigation. Typical clients include banks, accounting firms, brokerage houses and healthcare companies. The group has particular expertise in issues affecting the latter, covering medical malpractice, IP litigation for medical device manufacturers, and white-collar cases.

  • UT – Corporate/M&A: This Minneapolis firm now has offices throughout the USA, as well as in Canada, Europe, Asia and Oceania. The Salt Lake City office has an excellent reputation in capital markets, securities, M&A, private equity and corporate governance matters.

  • WA – Intellectual Property: The Seattle office of Dorsey & Whitney reflects the firmwide strength in IP, and though the group does sometimes draw upon the resources of the other offices, it offers "a stunning amount of localized IP experience."

  • National – Native American Law: This group is highly regarded for its significant geographic breadth, acting for both tribal and non-tribal clients across the country. Clients highlight its fantastic service, with one adding: "Every attorney greets me with a positive attitude and values my input as a colleague." The team also has an impressive depth of expertise, advising on finance, employee benefits and general federal matters, among other issues.

  • Alaska – Regulated Industries: This international firm commands considerable respect from the Anchorage market, with particular praise going to its significant regulated industries practice.

  • Alaska – Litigation: This first-rate firm continues to be involved in the most complex litigation matters, representing the most high-profile clients.

  • North Dakota – Labor & Employment: Lauded as “a fantastic team, no doubt about it,” this well-established group has an impressive practice spanning a wide range of labor and employment issues, including litigation and arbitration, which it undertakes for clients.

  • Montana – Corporate/M&A: Housing lawyers who regularly go above and beyond the call of duty for their clients, the corporate team at Dorsey & Whitney is very highly regarded in the state. One of the few national firms working in the region, the team has earned a stellar reputation for its bond financing and M&A practices in particular.