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In Transition Justice Department  

Thomas J. Perrelli

Current job: Managing partner, Washington office of the law firm Jenner & Block

What he offers: The former Harvard Law School classmate and Law Review colleague of President-elect Barack Obama is widely remembered among career staff members at the Justice Department for his easygoing temperament and his legal skills. He advised then-Attorney General Janet Reno and went on to manage an important Justice Department unit that defends federal agencies from lawsuits.

Vetting: During his government service, Perrelli handled cases against tobacco companies. In private practice, he represented Democratic officials in redistricting battles. Both issues could draw questions at the confirmation hearings.

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