Minneapolis (28-June-2010) - Faegre & Benson has been recognized among top U.S. law firms by Legal 500 United States in four categories: capital markets (equity offerings), mergers and acquisitions, real estate and construction, and tax.

The annual Legal 500 series recommends firms and lawyers by specific concentrations within each category.

The firm's capital markets practice was noted as having "a strong reputation in the market." Specifically, the extensive experience of W. Morgan Burns and Jonathan R. Zimmerman was highlighted.

With regard to mergers and acquisitions (M&A: Middle-Market), Faegre & Benson was noted for its work with innovative businesses  and IPOs. Clients praised partners W. Morgan Burns, Steven Kennedy, Michael Stanchfield and Douglas R. Wright.

The firm's real estate and construction practice (Construction: Central) was recognized for handling the full range of construction-related disputes and transactions on a national and international basis. The group's lawyers were described as "extremely knowledgeable." Clients recommended Minneapolis-based practice leader William Joyce in addition to Patrick O' Connor and former practice leader Peter Halls.

Partner Bruce Ackerman was singled out for particular knowledge in state taxation, while Ken Levinson was distinguished for expertise in captive insurance structures and the aviation industry (Domestic Tax: Central). According to the guide, Faegre & Benson provides an "expert" and "full-service" practice to the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. The firm's tax practice is recommended by clients for a "business-minded approach to tax which gets results."

The Legal 500 team of researchers speaks to thousands of law firm commercial clients every year. Law firm recommendations are based largely on opinions expressed by clients and rival commercial lawyers. Law firm inclusion in the guide is based solely on merit.