THE ROBING ROOM

Barry Poretz is an insurance adjuster's best friend on the federal bench. If you represent a deep pocket - or better yet, a government agency - try very hard to have him hear your case, because he will make you a very happy litigator. On the other hand, if you represent individuals, small businesses, or if you are a lawyer who is not associated with a white stocking law firm, you will want to steer clear of this fellow. Notorious for avoiding making his own decisions, he will typically ask the parties to each submit a proposed order, and then pick the one he likes better (usually the one drafted by Arnold & Porter, Covington & Burling, or the U.S. Attorney's office).