Public International Law

Herbert Smith Freehills has a renowned international arbitration group with impressive global reach, a particularly strong Asia-Pacific practice and noted expertise in African and Middle Eastern disputes. The firm has a multifaceted practice recognised for expertise in both PIL and commercial arbitrations. The law firm offers:

• Expert knowledge of investor-state arbitrations and large-scale energy and construction disputes.

• Experience in the telecoms, hospitality and financial services sectors.

• Advice for nations and multinational companies concerning state and international organisation immunity, human rights and international trade matters.

"Their international arbitration team is superb from top to bottom."

"The HSF team is blessed with a wealth of talented international law specialists with significant expertise in BIT and broader PIL law disputes."

Andrew Cannon serves as co-head of HSF's public international law practice and deputy head of its global arbitration practice. His impressive practice sees him work with clients on matters concerning human rights and maritime disputes. "Andrew has a really deep knowledge of the law, political considerations and diplomacy; it is relatively rare for a lawyer to have that expertise and experience."

Active in the APAC region, Alastair Henderson is commended for his unrivalled experience in handling arbitrations in South-East Asia, among other markets. His sector-specific arbitration expertise extends across a plethora of industries such as oil and gas, engineering, projects and infrastructure. "Alastair can provide concrete, understandable and precise information for all those who are not lawyers."

Christian Leathley is head of HSF's Latin America group and its US international arbitration practice. He receives high praise for his regional expertise, leading commercial and investment treaty arbitrations across US and Latin American markets. "Christian is client-focused and wants to achieve the best outcome for the client."