Chambers USA Rates Wiley Rein's Election Law Practice One of the Nation's Best

June 13, 2011

The 2011 edition of Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has again ranked Wiley Rein's Election Law & Government Ethics Practice among the best in the country, placing the group in its top-tier of firms. Practice co-chairs Jan Witold Baran and Michael E. Toner are recognized among the top-tier of "Leading Lawyers" in their field, a group that also includes partners Carol A. Laham and Caleb P. Burns.

Applauded for its "formidable experience in campaign finance and ethics laws," Chambers reports the Practice is "a favorite of Republican entities and political candidates." The directory notes that "the group's specialist expertise in tax law also makes it the firm of choice for major corporate clients, while its popularity with a number of nonprofit organizations and PACs is based on its thorough working knowledge of regulatory compliance matters."

Jan Baran, "a dean among the Republican financing lawyers," is "widely respected as one of the top figures in the political law sphere" and is commended for his "counseling and representation services for corporate clients and trade associations, as well as for work with PACs." Former FEC Chairman Michael Toner, who "recently added his considerable talents to the team" and is "known best for his work with political candidates and parties," is lauded as "unequaled in the field" and "likable and easy to work with."

Carol Laham, "a well-respected federal election law specialist" and "acknowledged expert in campaign finance and PAC compliance matters," is commended for the "incredible depth and breadth of knowledge" derived from her experience at the FEC. Caleb Burns, the directory notes, "continues to impress with his broad array of knowledge, including campaign finance and lobbying regulation. Clients praise his 'analytical and prompt' approach." Ms. Laham and Mr. Burns are named by Chambers as "Up and Coming."

The Chambers ratings are based on extensive interviews of law firms' clients, colleagues and competitors. Inclusion in the directory is determined through a rigorous vetting process.