Peter Keisler of Sidley Austin. November 12, 2014. Photo by Diego M. Radzinschi/THE NATIONAL LAW JOURNAL.

Tell us about your top U.S. Supreme Court or federal appeals court victory over the past year and how you and your team achieved the win.

We represented AT&T in the government's appeal of the AT&T/Time Warner merger decision. This was the first time in more than four decades that the government litigated to judgment a case challenging a vertical merger, and it presented many cutting-edge issues. It was extremely helpful that the appellate team had been very involved at trial, was deeply familiar with the facts, the economics, and the law, worked closely with the client, and believed strongly in the case. We were before a very sophisticated court and this background enabled us to successfully convey the overwhelming evidence supporting our position.

How did your firm approach appellate success over the past year?

We immerse ourselves in the law, the record and our client's businesses. We draw on extensive analysis, collaboration and creativity when facing the most complex cases. And we never forget the special persuasiveness of arguments that rely on common sense.

What is the most satisfying element of appellate practice in your opinion?

We bring the same high level of innovation and professionalism to our cases regardless of whether we are representing a multibillion-dollar corporation or an indigent pro bono client.

What's the most valuable lesson you learned as a young lawyer?

Be yourself. There are as many different styles of professional advocacy as there are lawyers, and lots of them can be successful. What all the effective ones have in common is authenticity.

Submitted by Peter Keisler, a partner and co-leader of the Supreme Court and appellate practice at Sidley Austin.