MICHAEL WORONOFF, 51

FIRM: Proskauer

LAW SCHOOL: University of Michigan Law School

SELECTED CLIENTS: Ares Management, Credit Suisse, Jefferies, Gores Group, Promenade Trust, General Nutrition Centers, Stream Global Services

YEARS IN PRACTICE: 26

Biggest Deal: I was on the Proskauer team that advised one of the purchasers on the 2006 $21 billion leveraged buyout of HCA (one of the largest LBOs ever). But often smaller deals are the most fun to work on. For example, the sales of J Brand Jeans, and of the Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra estates were fantastic deals.

Most Difficult Deal: It would be hard to pick. I love complex deals because they are the ones where I can add the most value.

The Secret to Closing a Deal: When you hit a roadblock, don’t tell the client no, figure out an alternative path.

If I Weren’t an Attorney: I’d be a gondolier or a rodeo clown, I can’t decide.