Arbitration (International)
Europe Guide 2024 : Europe-wide
Band 5
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
+33 1 40 555 100Chambers Review
Derains & Gharavi is a Paris-based arbitration boutique led by highly regarded specialists who frequently act as counsel or arbitrator on prominent cases. The firm stands out for its work on behalf of private individuals or corporate entities pursuing BIT claims against Middle Eastern or Asian states. It also represents sovereign states from the Middle East and Europe in PCA-administered UNCITRAL or ICSID arbitration brought by European investors. Derains & Gharavi is also seen as an excellent choice to handle Paris-seated commercial arbitration.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The arbitration team is one of the best worldwide."
"The arbitration team is one of the best worldwide."
Notable Practitioners
Yves Derains remains in demand for his role as president and co-arbitrator in both commercial and investor-state disputes. He is revered for handling a variety of rules including those of the ICC, ICSID and UNCITRAL, with expertise in overseeing construction, telecommunications and pharmaceutical disputes.
Sovereign states and investors regularly mandate Hamid Gharavi for his strength in complex investor-state disputes under ICSID rules. He is also sought after for his prowess in handling annulment proceedings in front of French courts.
Paris-based Melanie van Leeuwen advances in the rankings due to her growing presence in the market. She often acts as co-arbitrator and president in commercial and investor-state disputes under ICC and ICSID rules, with a focus on the energy and telecommunications sectors.
"Melanie is very well prepared; she knows all the details and understands the broader picture. She also asks sharp questions."
"Melanie van Leeuwen is an excellent lawyer."