Karen E. Silverman

Silverman's diverse work includes advising clients of all sizes on complex transactions and competition issues, focusing on obtaining merger control clearances in the United States and globally, among other complexities.

"We're busy, and the practice continues to evolve," said Silverman, 51. "It's not that I'm endeavoring to take on new stuff. It's that new stuff is emerging in the economy."

Her position as a partner based in Latham & Watkins' San Francisco office puts her in close proximity to a huge array of clients, and she's experienced in industries ranging from biotechnology to entertainment to retail.

"It just adds an incredible diversity to the practice, which is just wonderful," Silverman said.

Silverman currently is advising Sirona Dental System in a $5.5 billion merger of equals with DENTSPLY International that will result in the world's largest manufacturer of dental products and technologies with an implied pro forma equity value of about $13.3 billion.

And it was Silverman who obtained global clearance for the $3.1 billion merger between Globe Specialty Metals and Grupo FerroAtlantica, FerroGlobe PLC, which is now the largest international silicon and specialty metals producer in the world. The transaction, which closed Dec. 23, was cleared without remedies after an extended second request investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Silverman also obtained merger clearance in the U.S. and European Union for Johnson Electric Holdings' acquisition of Stackpole International, a Canada-based manufacturer of powertrain systems and components for the automotive industry. The deal closed Oct. 28 after being granted early termination.

? Meghann M. Cuniff