Dispute Resolution

Cleary Gottlieb has a highly respected international arbitration and litigation practice centred in Paris, with a wealth of experience acting principally for North and francophone African governments, as well as their state-owned entities. The firm is renowned for its robust investment treaty practice, and its lawyers offer considerable expertise in disputes relating to the natural resources and financial services industries. The firm also acts for prominent corporate clients on criminal investigations as well as litigation concerning alleged human rights violations.

"The team is very responsive, and available to discuss in an inclusive manner the different options relating to the strategy to be adopted."

"The law firm is highly tuned in to client needs and always responds in a timely manner."

A Cleary team comprising lawyers based in Paris and London acted for the Federal Republic of Nigeria in an ICSID arbitration against Shell arising from an oil spill in the Niger Delta.

Jean-Yves Garaud is based in Paris, from where he is regularly active on Africa-related arbitrations. A highly respected lawyer in his field, he often represents major construction corporations and clients in the energy sector, as well as North and West African governments. "Jean-Yves Garaud is a very good lawyer, he is well regarded." "Jean-Yves does a lot of work in Africa; he has good experience."

Up-and-coming partner Laurie Achtouk-Spivak makes her debut in the current ranking table. Based in Paris, she has considerable experience representing sovereign states and is well placed to assist with cases conducted under various arbitral rules, including those of the ICC and ICSID. "Laurie is a brilliant lawyer who demonstrates strong depth and an awareness of issues." "She is technically very good, knows the law very well and has a lot of good experience."