Energy & Natural Resources: Oil & Gas

Herbert Smith Freehills possesses a diverse energy practice with a notable reputation for its work in power and oil and gas, as well as significant expertise in renewables work. The team frequently advises major energy companies, developers, governments and banks on project financings and M&A transactions. It also commands a stellar reputation for energy disputes work, including international arbitrations. Its energy lawyers are also adept at advising on newbuild nuclear, electricity transmission and upstream oil and gas developments. The firm frequently advises on interconnector projects between the UK and other jurisdictions.

"Herbert Smith Freehills is very strong in leveraging the deep experience of its experts and bringing in creative solutions for challenging projects."

"Herbert Smith has a strong energy team with capable senior leadership and junior membership."

"The team is extremely quick and responsive."

Herbert Smith Freehills advised Apex International Energy on its acquisition from Eni of interests in multiple upstream oil and gas concessions in Egypt.

The firm advised the lenders, including Japan Bank for International Cooperation, on the financing of the NeuConnect Interconnector Project, the first interconnector between England and Germany.

The team advised a syndicate of nine commercial banks on the financing of Riverside 2, the Cory group's second energy-from-waste facility.

Sarah Pollock's practice involves advising on the acquisition, disposal, development and financing of domestic conventional energy developments, with a focus on waste-to-energy and solar projects. She regularly assists significant developer and investor clients in the sector. "Sarah's solution-based analysis, acute commercial awareness and responsiveness allow her clients to close deals successfully and quickly." "She is very collaborative and works to get deals done."

Craig Tevendale heads the firm's UK arbitration practice. He possesses a broad contentious practice and is well versed in international disputes pertaining to price reviews, supply contracts and ownership issues. "Craig is a subject matter expert. He's practical and no-nonsense. You get the complete package."

James Baily is a solicitor advocate with a wealth of experience representing oil and gas companies in cross-border disputes. He regularly advises on claims relating to both upstream and midstream assets.

Laura Hulett is noted for her experience in M&A transactions and investments involving upstream oil and gas assets. She possesses considerable cross-border expertise and regularly advises on matters concerning projects in Europe, Africa and Latin America. "Laura Hulett is really committed and very focused." "She just knows how to get deals done."

Lewis McDonald is head of global energy at Herbert Smith Freehills. He has considerable experience in the LNG sector and advising on gas pipeline developments. "He was pragmatic and sensible to deal with."

Silke Goldberg has a strong practice in the power sector. She  is particularly well versed handling international interconnector projects. "She is a very highly regarded regulatory lawyer." "Silke has direct access and understanding of regulations in other countries and she is very helpful."

Steven Dalton routinely advises oil companies and infrastructure funds on M&A transactions and project developments. He has a strong knowledge of issues facing upstream and midstream projects in Africa and the Middle East.

Thomas Bethel has significant expertise in oil and gas financings. He often represents lenders on loan refinancings and reserve-based lending. "He's really strong on technical issues and gets ahead of the issues he thinks his clients might have." "He's very straightforward to deal with, collaborative and knows his stuff." "He's one of the experts in reserve-based finance lending the market."