International Arbitration: Investor-State Arbitration

Withers has a growing reputation in the market for its international arbitration work. The firm is especially recognised for its work in the investor-state space, where it receives significant instructions from states, state-owned entities and companies. The team is also noted for its representation of energy and construction clients in commercial proceedings. Its lawyers are proficient in handling arbitrations under ICSID and UNCITRAL rules.

“The team at Withers have bucketloads of experience and ability when it comes to complex and sophisticated matters.”

“They're hugely efficient, very communicative and clearly have a fantastic relationship with their clients. They are very strong.”

Withers represented Qatar National Bank in ICSID arbitration proceedings against the Republic of South Sudan and the Bank of South Sudan, in connection with a failure to repay a loan under a facility agreement.

Co-head of the firm's international arbitration group, Hussein Haeri comes highly recommended for his investor-state arbitration practice. He is skilled at handling complex BIT claims and is regularly sought out by sovereign states to act in high-value ICSID arbitrations. “Hussein has a great grasp of what clients want from a business perspective.” “Hussein is extremely bright and thinks deeply about a wide variety of issues. He has an ability to find solutions for clients.” "He gets great results for clients in the commercial sense."

Eleni Polycarpou's practice sees her regularly handling large-scale proceedings under ICC, LCIA and UNCITRAL rules. Her clients cover a range of sectors, including oil and gas. “Eleni is very good at preparing evidence and getting into the nitty gritty.” “She is very smart and very thorough.”