Public International Law

Serving as co-chair of Debevoise & Plimpton’s public international law group, New York-based Catherine Amirfar is a distinguished practitioner in the field of PIL and international arbitration. Amirfar possesses significant expertise in matters concerning state-to-state disputes, international criminal law, investment treaty arbitration and climate change litigation before international courts and tribunals.

"The best of the best, she is truly exceptional. I am yet to meet a lawyer who has her blend of intelligence, calmness, intuition and case management."

"Catherine is a real leader in the field. With Catherine, the focus in definitely on the client and there is equal focus on the substance and the law."

"Catherine is a first-rate lawyer. I was impressed with the fact that she masters difficult cases. She has great skills of being able to listen to everyone and building the team spirit."

New York and London-based Mark Friedman is a leading practitioner who enjoys an excellent reputation in the international arbitration market. Serving as co-chair of Debevoise’s international dispute resolution group, Friedman operates a broad practice which sees him represent international corporations and investors in complex commercial and investment treaty arbitrations before major arbitral tribunals.

"Mark is intelligent, knowledgeable and experienced. It's easy to have confidence in him. If Mark represents a fact or issue, the tribunal can count on it."

"I find Mark to be incredibly helpful to work with. He is articulate and easygoing. He is accessible to work with even though he is a co-head. He always finds time and makes time."

Peter Goldsmith KC possesses a well-regarded international arbitration and PIL practice, bringing to bear his notable experience as the UK's former Attorney General. He leads ground-breaking cases concerning novel issues of international law and is often called upon by sovereign states and multinational corporations to assist in complex international disputes concerning investment treaty arbitration, human rights, maritime law and state responsibility.

"Peter has excellent strategic strength and brings his own analysis to the table."

"Peter Goldsmith is highly experienced, service-minded and dedicated, and it is always a pleasure to work with him. His ability to analyse complex legal situations and find strong and effective legal solutions is remarkable. He stands out with his tailor-fit advice and his vast wealth of knowledge and experience in arbitration and public international law."

"Peter Goldsmith is a very impressive performer and continues to be a hard-working advocate. He is very experienced, knowledgeable and impressive. He is very effective."

London-based Jeffrey Sullivan KC is a leading practitioner possessing longstanding experience in representing an impressive roster of international clients before major arbitral tribunals under ICSID, UNCITRAL and LCIA rules. Sullivan's international arbitration experience covers a plethora of sectors and industries.

Natalie Reid serves as co-chair of Debevoise’s public international law group. Reid has established an impressive practice focused on representing sovereign states, global corporations, NGOs and other international entities in high-stakes disputes. .

"Natalie Reid is very thoughtful and thoroughly knows PIL. She is knowledgeable with regard to quantum issues."

"Natalie is so pragmatic, very to the point and a pleasure to work with on a personal level."

Dietmar Prager brings notable credentials and experience in handling arbitrations concerning the energy and natural resources sector. Frequently advising on US and Latin American mandates, Prager remains a solid choice for international investors and foreign companies.

"Dietmar is very emotionally intelligent in how he manages clients and co-counsel. He always remains calm in a stressful situation, and that gives the clients comfort."

"Dietmar is extremely hard-working and diligent. He always knows the details of the arbitration. Any question I have for him, he is ready and prepared with the answer."