Firms To Watch: Arbitration (including international arbitration)

BAUMANN Resolving Disputes is a Hamburg-based dispute resolution boutique under the leadership of Antje Baumann, whose team members act both as party representatives as well as arbitrators. The practice is also experienced in mediation.

Arbitration (including international arbitration) in Germany

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie's well-established arbitration practice is primarily involved as party representatives in an impressive number of arbitrations, most commonly involving disputes in the pharmaceutical, energy, construction and technology sectors. Among other things, the team stands out for its expertise in proceedings relating to Asia and in post-M&A disputes. Günter Pickrahn, who also acts as an arbitrator and is particularly active in the latter area, heads the German dispute resolution practice together with Heiko Haller who is experienced in energy project disputes as well as in arbitration proceedings relating to infrastructure, construction and IT outsourcing projects. Jörg Risse has extensive mediation experience and Ragnar Harbst, who often acts as an arbitrator, focuses on the railway industry.

Practice head(s):

Günter Pickrahn; Heiko Haller


Other key lawyers:

Ragnar Harbst; Jörg Risse


Testimonials

Very capable and thorough – strong in designing case management strategies.

Heiko Haller: He is a strong and calm speaker with a good eye for detail.’

CMS

CMS regularly represents well-known national and international companies in the energy, automotive, healthcare, real estate and technology sectors in high-volume arbitrations. Recently, investment arbitration proceedings as well as construction and energy disputes emerged as clear growth areas of its highly-regarded practice, whose lawyers also regularly act as party representatives or arbitrators in post-M&A proceedings and in arbitration proceedings related to failed IT projects, license and commercial disputes. The team is also very active in Asian-related proceedings, with Hongkong and Singapore-based Nicolas Wiegand, who is visible in multi-faceted arbitration proceedings, being the key contact; he jointly heads the dispute resolution practice with Thomas Lennarz (litigation, arbitration and mediation; also acts as arbitrator). Susanne Schwalb made partner in 2022 and focuses on commercial and investment arbitration; Torsten Lörcher has experience in arbitration proceedings for major construction projects among other matters, as does Tom Christopher Proestler, who divides his time between Hong Kong and Berlin; Klaus Sachs and Armin Dürrschmidt primarily handle arbitration proceedings with corporate law aspects while Tilman Niedermaier has recently been particularly active in energy disputes.

Practice head(s):

Nicolas Wiegand; Thomas Lennarz


Testimonials

The team has a deep understanding of the business without neglecting the legal aspects.’

‘Dr Tilman Niedermaier: He really stands out because of his excellent legal and procedural understanding, his spoken and written command of the English language and his strategic thinking; a real benefit to have such a person at your side in complicated arbitrations or as an excellent opponent on the other side.’

The team is exceptionally competent and experienced. The lawyers successfully add new elements to our strategy and have a very high technical understanding. CMS provides good service, all lawyers are very responsive and care about client’s interests. In addition, they regularly work within the agreed budget and have a fair and transparent pricing model.

Key clients

Daimler AG / Mercedes-Benz Group AG


Autoticket


CTS Eventim


RWE Renewables


Hochtief


Bundesministerium für Gesundheit


Stellantis / Fiat / FCA


Siemens


Roland Berger


Work highlights


  • Advising and representing the Autoticket / Mautprojektgesellschaft and its shareholders in DIS arbitration proceedings.

  • Advising and representing a listed Asian biopharmaceutical group in connection with a large-scale ICC arbitration arising out of a license agreement with a European pharmaceutical company.

Busse Disputes

Busse Disputes' reputation is not only reflected in a wide range of arbitration proceedings and an international client base consisting of investors and high-profile industrial companies, but also in numerous arbitrator appointments on senior associate and partner level. However, the team continues to primarily focus on representing parties in numerous arbitrations relating to post-M&A disputes, commercial and contractual disputes and investment arbitrations; the latter area is also the focus of Sven Lange who made partner in March 2022. Mia Ramb, who specializes in energy law arbitration, is also well versed in technical plant construction proceedings and founding partner Daniel Busse is experienced in energy and corporate law disputes as well as in proceedings concerning infrastructure projects among other matters. Silke Justen acts with a focus on the energy sector, joint venture disputes as well as financial and insurance law conflicts. Allison Torline, who frequently acts in post-M&A disputes and international arbitration proceedings, made counsel in March 2022.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Busse; Silke Justen; Mia Ramb


Other key lawyers:

Sven Lange; Allison Torline


Testimonials

Busse Disputes is an excellent litigation/arbitration boutique with a strong international focus and excellent lawyers. For me the go-to law firm in Germany for state litigation and arbitration.

Daniel Busse: He is an outstanding party representative and arbitrator with strong analytical skills and advocacy skills.’

Sven Lange: His briefs are excellent; he works extremely carefully and efficiently.

Key clients

Privinvest Holding SAL


Privinvest Shipbuilding Investments LLC


Work highlights


  • Representing two international investors in an ICSID arbitration against Greece. The subject of the proceedings are claims for damages of several hundred million euros due to violation of the investment protection agreement between Lebanon and Greece.

  • Representing Privinvest Holding SAL and other subsidiaries from three different jurisdictions in an ICC arbitration with a value of approximately €7 billion regarding the purchase of a shipyard.

  • Representing Privinvest Shipbuilding Investments LLC and other subsidiaries in several parallel ICC and SCAI arbitrations based in Switzerland regarding claims against the State of Mozambique arising from several (subject to Swiss law) contracts for the delivery of ships and related services. The arbitrations were initiated in the context of other governmental proceedings in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Clifford Chance

Recently, Clifford Chance's wide-ranging national and international arbitration expertise has been called upon most frequently by companies in the renewable and conventional energy sectors, while automotive and engineering companies also instruct the team which is led by Michael Kremer; investor-state arbitration proceedings, in the context of which the group is experienced in acting on both sides, represent a further clear practice focus. Contractual issues as well as energy sector- and plant construction-specific issues often form the starting point of its instructions, but the team is also well versed in post-M&A disputes among other matters. In addition, the team members are regularly appointed as arbitrators: Alongside practice head Kremer, these include Jan Conrady, who is proficient in international plant construction, arbitration as well as ADR and who made partner in May 2022, Moritz Keller, who is experienced in investment arbitration proceedings, and counsel Paul Hauser who is acting in post-M&A proceedings. Sebastian Rakob has a focus on civil litigation and arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Michael Kremer


Testimonials

Moritz Keller: provides clients with quick answers to their questions and dilemmas and leads the team in a highly professional manner to achieve the best possible results. He always shows his own initiative, provides all case-relevant information and is always willing to discuss it with us.’

High level of know-how, understanding of our business, understanding of complex situations, good composition of the team that covers all legal and social issues. Good handling of new media.

Paul Hauser: Outstanding lawyer, very familiar with the legal peculiarities, impeccable legal analysis.’

Good arbitration team around Dr. Kremer. Right from the start, focus on joint coordination of individual steps. Internal platform for exchange and provision of large amounts of data very helpful.’

Dr Michael Kremer: Very pleasant consulting atmosphere, always focused. One feels in good hands.’

Dr Jan Conrady: Very good knowledge of large plant construction disputes. Joint development of the strategy while focusing on clients.’

Gleiss Lutz

Based on cross-practice cooperation, Gleiss Lutz primarily handles commercial arbitration proceedings. The team, led by Stefan Rützel, who sometimes also acts as an arbitrator, is frequently instructed with joint venture and post-M&A disputes, but also demonstrates expertise in investment arbitration proceedings, licensing conflicts and in disputes pertaining to supply chain difficulties and plant construction. David Quinke and Andrea Leufgen, among others, are very visible in post-M&A conflicts, while Stephan Wilske is well versed in investment arbitration and also frequently acts as an arbitrator.

Practice head(s):

Stefan Rützel


Testimonials

The experience with Gleiss Lutz has been excellent. Regardless of the topic in which we were looking for support, we were able to find a competent contact person at any time and immediately. The cooperation is very trusting, even if you immediately notice what excellently trained contacts you are dealing with, we were always well received and treated as equals.’

The deep specialist knowledge, which is presented very professionally, the ability to quickly understand and abstract coupled with the ability to develop pragmatic solutions are remarkable.’

Excellent technical expertise, strategic approaches and a well-rehearsed team with absolute adherence to deadlines.’

Hengeler Mueller

As party representatives, Hengeler Mueller focuses primarily on post-M&A disputes, joint venture conflicts and price adjustment proceedings and is also active in other commercial and licensing disputes. The team members act for numerous companies in the pharmaceutical, technology, finance, defense and manufacturing industries and are also appointed as arbitrators; the latter particularly goes for Carsten van de Sande, who is experienced in post-M&A and joint venture conflicts, and Markus Meier, who also assists with post-M&A matters as well as with disputes concerning infrastructure projects and distribution agreements.

Other key lawyers:

Carsten van de Sande; Markus Meier


Hogan Lovells International LLP

Hogan Lovells International LLP recently demonstrated its international arbitration expertise in disputes concerning supply and cooperation agreements, investment protection as well as structured products distribution for clients from the finance, energy and construction sectors, but is also known for its representation of companies from the life sciences and automotive sectors. Karl Pörnbacher, who has extensive experience in conflicts stemming from plant construction and infrastructure projects, energy industry disputes and post-M&A conflicts, heads the practice. Inken Knief regularly acts as an arbitrator and also has a particular focus on representing parties in high-volume supply chain disputes.

Practice head(s):

Karl Pörnbacher


Other key lawyers:

Inken Knief


Key clients

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG


Mainstream Renewable Power


Hyundai Motor Deutschland GmbH


Work highlights


  • Representing Mainstream Renewable Power in an investment protection lawsuit against Germany.

Linklaters

Linklaters' internationally well-connected team possesses diverse arbitration experience ranging from joint venture and post-M&A disputes to commercial and contract disputes and price adjustment proceedings; recently, particularly clients from the energy and financial sectors made use of the practice's expertise. The German dispute resolution group is headed by Alexandros Chatzinerantzis, who frequently acts as party representative, mediator and arbitrator in energy law arbitration proceedings as well as in construction, commercial and corporate law matters. Rupert Bellinghausen is particularly well versed in post-M&A arbitration, specializing in the healthcare, automotive, consumer goods and chemical sectors, while Julia Grothaus focuses on antitrust, post-M&A, corporate and contractual disputes.

Practice head(s):

Alexandros Chatzinerantzis


Testimonials

Linklaters has a good and diverse team, very responsive and collegial. A pleasure to work with the colleagues there. Open communication, take great pleasure in their work.

Dr Rupert Bellinghausen: An excellent colleague with an excellent reputation in the market. He is also very collegial, friendly, communicative and open. I really enjoy working with him and his team and enjoy the collegial exchange.

Resources are used efficiently. Not too many people are involved, just the most necessary ones.

Luther Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH

Luther Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH‘s in-depth experience in energy law arbitration is mirrored in numerous instructions from well-known energy suppliers who request party representation in sometimes politically sensitive coal and nuclear phase-out proceedings, but also make use of the team’s expertise in investment arbitration proceedings. In addition, the practice also handles commercial conflicts beyond the energy sector, other contractual disputes and an increasing number of post-M&A disputes. Practice head Richard Happ represents both states and companies and focuses on investment arbitration and the energy sector. Counsel Tim Rauschning also focuses on investment and energy arbitration and further establishes a practice for Latin American arbitrations, while of counsel Sebastian Wuschka advises on investment and commercial arbitration. Stephan Bausch is particularly well versed in technology-related and energy law disputes.

Practice head(s):

Richard Happ


Key clients

Vattenfall GmbH


E.ON SE


RWE AG


Work highlights


  • Representing Vattenfall AB, Vattenfall GmbH and Vattenfall Europe Nuclear Energy in the ICSID arbitration against the Federal Republic of Germany regarding the nuclear phase-out.

  • Representing RWE AG in arbitration proceedings against the Kingdom of the Netherlands for damages due to the early closure of the Eemshaven coal-fired power plant as a result of the Dutch coal phase-out.

  • Representing E.ON SE in investment protection proceedings before the World Bank Arbitration Court against the Kingdom of Spain due to fundamental changes in the tariff regime for renewable energies in Spain.

Noerr

Noerr is increasingly gaining foothold in the party representation sphere, in which the group represents states, insurers, financial market players as well as numerous companies across various industries. Arbitration instructions primarily stem from investment disputes, disputes in the conventional and renewable energy sectors and post-M&A conflicts, while matters in the latter segment often entail Anglo-American aspects; this represents one of the focal points of Jennifer Bryant, who made partner in January 2022. Anke Meier acts both as an arbitrator and counsel in commercial and investment arbitration proceedings and jointly heads the German dispute resolution practice with Oliver Sieg, who is the key contact for insurance and liability arbitration proceedings and also acts as an arbitrator.

Practice head(s):

Anke Meier; Oliver Sieg


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Bryant


Key clients

Bundesrepublik Deutschland


CEMEX Deutschland


Königreich der Niederlande


Work highlights


  • Representing the Federal Republic of Germany in an ICSID arbitration against Austrian investors from the Strabag Group regarding alleged claims under the Energy Charter Treaty.

  • Representing a French reinsurer in an ad hoc arbitration regarding a business interruption reinsurance contract against a major national insurer.

  • Representing the Kingdom of the Netherlands in two proceedings before the Cologne Higher Regional Court in connection with two ICSID arbitrations initiated by RWE AG and Uniper SE to assert alleged claims under the Energy Charter Treaty.

White & Case LLP

Embedded in White & Case LLP's global arbitration practice, the German team led by Markus Burianski stands out for its internationality both with regards to matters and client base, which is primarily composed of large, globally active companies in the energy, construction, technology, automotive and chemical industries. Recently, the group has frequently been involved in investment arbitration proceedings, post-M&A disputes and disputes relating to supply and contractual issues. Alexandra Diehl possesses in-depth expertise in investment arbitration proceedings as well as in IP, liability and post-M&A disputes, while Christian Theissen predominantly handles disputes in technology-based industries, including automotive, and is particularly involved in conflicts related to supply contracts, post-M&A and liability issues. Federico Parise Kuhnle, who was appointed local partner in January 2022, has a focus on energy sector disputes, while Alexander Lang is often involved in construction law disputes.


Practice head(s):

Markus Burianski


Testimonials

Christian Theissen: Technology expert, very focused, a NAME for legal advice in the field of autonomous driving .’

The team has grown a lot and is now able to “handle” the really big procedures. The White & Case arbitration team always thinks in the interests of the client, above all it thinks strategically and always reacts reliably, quickly and efficiently – also including legal tech solutions.

Alexandra Diehl: A brilliant arbitration expert, highly professional and with excellent rhetorical skills. She is able to quickly familiarize herself with complex issues and to act strategically in the interests of the client. She is also excellently connected within the arbitration scene .’

The team around Christian Theissen impresses with very meticulous work and convinces with very efficient use of resources. The team is extremely reliable, be it in terms of time, quality or action. There is an extremely pleasant and appreciative atmosphere within the team and dealing with clients is also characterized by a high degree of respect and (sincere) friendliness. Working with the team is really fun .’

Christian Theissen: A very reliable and practice-oriented, friendly lawyer who constantly improves himself through active listening and immediately implements feedback. He has extremely high quality standards for his team, but also for himself .’

Alexander Lang: A young and very ambitious lawyer who acts with great commitment and a wealth of experience. Mr. Lang is very reliable and is always available. Because of his friendly, efficient and relaxed manner, working with him is very pleasant.’

Key clients

Mercedes-Benz Group


Daimler Truck AG


Kraton Corporation


Angelique International Limited


Allianz RE


ALSTOM


Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP's multifarious, international dispute resolution practice includes strong arbitration capacities, resulting in regular party representation in post-M&A , commercial and energy disputes, frequently also related to plant construction. With a focus on international trade disputes, practice head Anna Masser is primarily involved in energy sector conflicts, including price adjustment proceedings, while counsel Alice Broichmann has expertise in post-M&A proceedings, particularly in connection with purchase price adjustments and management participation schemes; both also possess arbitrator experience.

Practice head(s):

Anna Masser


Other key lawyers:

Alice Broichmann


Testimonials

Anna Masser: Judicially incredibly well versed and equipped with an extremely quick, sharp mind. Understands and penetrates business and legal contexts very quickly and precisely. Also equipped with a good tactical judgment. Brilliant lawyer.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper's arbitration practice regularly advises national and international companies in the aviation, energy and insurance sectors as well as in the manufacturing, IT, food and construction industries. Instructions frequently derive from energy, trade, supply and insurance law conflicts, whereby the team is also well versed in corporate and joint venture disputes. Furthermore, the group gained investment arbitration capacities with the arrival of Marc Jacob from Shearman & Sterling LLP in April 2022; Jacob regularly acts on both investor and state side. Key contacts also include Daniel Sharma (experienced in aviation and energy sector disputes), Wolfgang Jäger (well versed in civil damages proceedings and commercial contract disputes) and Frank Roth, who focuses on the infrastructure, IT and life sciences sectors. Thomas Gädtke frequently acts in cross-border arbitration proceedings, while Ludger Giesberts heads the dispute resolution practice and focuses on internal investigations and product liability.

Practice head(s):

Ludger Giesberts


Work highlights


  • Representing a leading international IT group as a defendant in arbitration proceedings regarding the effectiveness of extraordinary terminations in relation to a large-volume IT transformation project.

  • Representation of a Scandinavian food group in an ICC arbitration against a German mechanical engineering company due to defective delivery of an automated packaging line as well as successful recognition and enforceability of the arbitration award across all instances up to the Federal Court of Justice.

  • Representing a Montenegrin municipality in arbitration proceedings against a German plaintiff who developed a wastewater project for the municipality and is claiming payment from the municipality under a guarantee.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is regularly consulted for post-M&A and commercial arbitrations and also has expertise in investor-state disputes, representing both sides, and IP-related arbitration cases. The team primarily acts for companies in the manufacturing, TMT and energy sectors as well as the construction and infrastructure industries and has recently also been entrusted with matters from the financial services sector. The internationally well-connected team is led by Patricia Nacimiento, who specializes in energy arbitration among other matters and regularly acts as an arbitrator, and also includes Mathias Wittinghofer, who is experienced in post-M&A and joint venture conflicts, as well as counsel Catrice Gayer, who predominantly takes on construction, supply, acquisition as well as post-M&A arbitration proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Patricia Nacimiento


Other key lawyers:

Mathias Wittinghofer; Catrice Gayer


Testimonials

Great team with Wittinghofer and Nascimiento at the top.’

Wittinghofer: Very studious and good.’

Mathias Wittinghofer: Always approachable and attentive, a professionally and operationally highly competent lawyer.’

Latham & Watkins LLP

In the arbitration sphere, Latham & Watkins LLP first and foremost impresses with its expertise in commercial and post-M&A disputes as well as in investment arbitration proceedings. The latter area is mainly handled by Sebastian Seelmann-Eggebert, who divides his time between London and Hamburg. In addition to experience in international arbitration proceedings, Alena McCorkle and Anne Löhner also possess litigation expertise and both made partners in January 2022. Christoph Baus heads the German litigation and trials practice and is well versed in commercial disputes.

Practice head(s):

Christoph Baus


Testimonials

The arbitration team at Latham & Watkins is notable for its impressive track record and smooth cooperation across international locations.’

Dr Sebastian Seelmann-Eggebert: He is definitely the leading expert in Germany for ICSID procedures and brings unique experience with him. Analytically brilliant, calm, confident and unruffled by anything.’

Dr Alena McCorkle: In my opinion, the greatest talent of her generation. Outstanding in legal terms, perfect teamwork and with outstanding commitment to the client.’

Very strong, hardworking team with impressive quality and speed.’

Dr. Anne Löhner: Extremely knowledgeable, professional, friendly and always available; I feel very supported at all times.’

Key clients

Ukraine


Ipek Investment Limited (IIL)


Republik Kroatien


Strabag SE


Königreich Saudi-Arabien


Work highlights


  • Representing Ipek Investment Limited in an ICSID arbitration against Turkey.

  • Successfully representing Ukraine in an arbitration brought by three Cypriot companies Littop Enterprises, Bridgemont Ventures and Bordo Management before the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (SCC) under the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT).

  • Representing the Republic of Croatia in an ICSID arbitration brought by Elitech BV and Razvoj Golf DOO under the bilateral investment agreement between Croatia and the Netherlands. The lawsuit concerns the development of several golf courses, hotels, villas and ancillary facilities just above Dubrovnik with a total investment volume of more than $1 billion.

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP's arbitration practice broadly covers party representation, thereby benefiting for both governments and corporations. Thus, the arbitration team recently accompanied post-M&A and joint venture disputes, investment arbitration proceedings as well as supply, commercial and insolvency law disputes, with numerous matters stemming from the energy sector, but also from the technology and life sciences industries. Practice head Siegried Elsing also often acts as an arbitrator, as does Nicholas Kessler who further focuses on post-M&A, delivery and construction disputes. Karsten Faulhaber is well versed in international arbitration on both state and corporation side.

Practice head(s):

Siegfried Elsing


Other key lawyers:

Karsten Faulhaber; Nicholas Kessler


Testimonials

Outstanding arbitration practice.’

Dr Karsten Faulhaber: Fast, thorough, friendly, cost-effective – an excellent lawyer for demanding mandates.’

Key clients

Bundesrepublik Deutschland


Kraftanlagen (KAO)


MET International


Republik Nordmazedonien


STEAG


Work highlights


  • Advising and representing the Federal Republic of Germany in arbitration proceedings regarding claims of allegedly €560 million in connection with the car toll.

  • Representing the Republic of North Macedonia in a UNCITRAL investment protection arbitration against London-based investors.

  • Representing the Kraftanlagen Group in a newly drafted arbitration proceeding in connection with claims arising from the construction of a nuclear power plant in Finland after the BGH had successfully set aside an ICC arbitral award.

Borris Hennecke Kneisel

Borris Hennecke Kneisel's dispute resolution experts have recently been involved in various joint venture conflicts and contractual disputes for a client base composed of companies in the pharmaceutical, waste disposal and construction industries. Corporate law and post-M&A disputes represent the main focus for Sebastian Kneisel, Christian Borris, who is also experienced in energy and antitrust law disputes, as well as Rudolf Hennecke, who is further experienced in commercial disputes. Additionally, all three founding partners are regularly appointed as arbitrators.

Testimonials

‘This is a super dispute boutique that is unique because of its excellent minds.’

‘Dr. Christian Borris: Determined, really smart (!!) and as a practical person incredibly good as an arbitrator.’

‘The law firm is one of the few outstanding arbitration boutiques in Germany. It attracts outstanding young lawyers in the Rhineland, also during their legal clerkship. In our observation, it can offer a very attractive price/performance ratio.’

Dentons

In line with the firm's global approach, Dentons' German arbitration practice is also involved in numerous international proceedings, which often arise from distribution, commercial and acquisition disputes as well as joint venture and post-M&A conflicts. The team has particular expertise in representing companies in the energy, plant construction, automotive, healthcare and real estate sectors, but also acts for states in investment arbitration proceedings. Heiko Heppner is frequently sought after for international arbitration proceedings relating to China and the Middle East and jointly heads the dispute resolution practice with Thomas Nebel, who focuses on construction and plant construction arbitration as well as disputes of corporate nature. Matthias Hadding made partner in April 2022 and is well versed in plant construction disputes, among other matters.

Practice head(s):

Heiko Heppner; Thomas Nebel


Other key lawyers:

Matthias Hadding


Testimonials

Dentons has a broad arbitration practice and, in Heiko Heppner, a leader who has a specialization in China that is rare in the market.

Heiko Heppner: A dedicated and trenchant litigator.’

Heiko Heppner: has an extraordinary understanding of economic issues, which is probably due to his physics studies.’

Key clients

Fresenius Medical Care


Bundesrepublik Deutschland


Mercedes Benz Group


Patrizia AG


Work highlights


  • Representing a German DAX40 company in a distribution law dispute before an arbitral tribunal of the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA).

  • Defending a Chinese aircraft manufacturer against an Italian aircraft manufacturer’s ICC arbitration claim arising from a cooperation agreement.

  • Defending a publicly listed pump manufacturer in an ICC arbitration against alleged claims for damages due to alleged unjustified termination of a distribution agreement.

Heuking

Heuking's arbitration team recently acted in post-M&A and commercial disputes and is jointly led by Elke Umbeck, who is experienced in shareholder and energy law disputes, and Daniel Froesch, who is well versed in post-M&A conflicts, among other matter.

Practice head(s):

Elke Umbeck; Daniel Froesch


Testimonials

Large and dedicated team that is always available quickly and competently. Any expertise that we required could be drawn on directly from them. In addition, there was a huge wealth of experience from which we benefited greatly.’

In our opinion, the arbitration practice is characterized by a highly motivated and highly competent mixed team of very experienced arbitrators on the one hand and very talented young colleagues on the other. The lawyers are always available, communicate very well and proactively, provide practical and goal-oriented advice.

Dr Elke Umbeck: Very good management/leadership of the matter, strong communication, very good integration and motivation of the in-house team, binding but tough negotiations, healthy sense of proportion in the expectation setting, excellent arbitrator.

HKLW’s dispute resolution practice around Dr. Elke Umbeck is characterized by the fact that she independently and proactively familiarizes herself with the facts relevant to the dispute with the greatest precision and accompanies us as clients reliably and tactically extremely cleverly through all procedural steps. In doing so, she benefits from her excellent network, especially with other arbitrators, which enabled us to select the arbitrator perfectly.’

‘What matters most in arbitration is accurate, perceptive briefing and meticulous preparation for the cross-examination of witnesses. In our case, this could not be surpassed .’

Dr Elke Umbeck: Perfect preparation and submission of to-the-point (and not overly lengthy) pleadings. The questioning of the witnesses was prepared in detail and carried out in a tactically clever manner. All of this has led to the fact that we were able to fully win a complex process.

Dr Elke Umbeck: A very experienced and well-connected litigator who conducts the entire arbitration procedure very confidently and thus supports the client in the best possible way.

Kantenwein Zimmermann Spatscheck & Partner

Kantenwein Zimmermann Spatscheck & Partner‘s team regularly represents investors and industrial companies in commercial and post-M&A arbitration proceedings. The practice further impresses with its arbitration expertise in energy law disputes: these are primarily handled by Annett Kuhli-Spatscheck, who is frequently appointed as an arbitrator and additionally stands out for her tax expertise. Former practice head Alexander Kröck and Nico Köppel left the firm in October 2023.

Testimonials

The firm has become a fixture on the Munich market and in the German arbitration scene.

Annett Kuhli: an excellent arbitrator with special knowledge of tax law. This combination, combined with her professional and authoritative manner, allows her to efficiently and effectively support clients and parties in arbitration proceedings.

Fast response times, proactive action, put themselves in the client’s situation, common sense, solution-optimized and not fee-optimized, an important goal is always to optimize the customer’s risk; outstanding partner: Dr. A. Kuhli.’

Outstanding team – big enough for ‘critical mass’, small enough for efficiency and pragmatism.’

Dr Annett Kuhli-Spatscheck: Outstanding as an arbitrator; rare combination of arbitration and tax law expertise.’

The smooth cooperation within the team is outstanding; real teamwork is lived and practiced here.

Work highlights


  • Appointed as presiding arbitrator in DIS arbitrations in a purchase price adjustment dispute under a long-term coal supply agreement.

  • Appointed as party-appointed arbitrator in an ICC arbitration regarding a post-M&A dispute in the automotive industry regarding a €100 million purchase price adjustment claim.

King & Spalding LLP

The internationally embedded dispute resolution practice of King & Spalding LLP focuses its arbitration expertise on investment and energy conflicts and primarily acts on behalf of investors in energy charter conflicts. Practice head Jan Schäfer is also frequently appointed as arbitrator.

Practice head(s):

Jan Schäfer


Key clients

Halliburton Company Germany GmbH


Doosan


DCM Energy GmbH & Co. Solar 1 KG


ESPF Beteiligungs GmbH, ESPF Nr. 2 Austria Beteiligungs GmbH und InfraClass Energie 5 GmbH & Co. KG


KS Invest GmbH und TLS Invest GmbH


Work highlights


  • Representing an investor in a multi-million ICSID proceeding regarding violation of the Energy Charter Treaty by Spain due to retrospective reduction of guaranteed feed-in tariffs for renewable energies.

  • Representing DCM Energy GmbH & Co. Solar 1 KG, among other things, in a multi-million ICSID procedure regarding violation of the Energy Charter Treaty by Spain due to retrospective reduction of guaranteed feed-in tariffs for renewable energies.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP's team routinely appears in well-known investment disputes and in this context acts on both the sovereign and investor side. Energy law disputes, including conflicts surrounding the Energy Charter Treaty, often present the starting point of these matters, but the practice is further sought after for commercial and contract arbitration proceedings in the pharmaceutical and consumer goods sectors. Practice head Sabine Konrad also acts as arbitrator in international proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Sabine Konrad


Other key lawyers:

Maximilian Pika


Testimonials

Small but highly efficient team. This makes it cost-effective because no internal coordination processes have to be co-financed.’

‘On one hand, procedural actions are carried out very professionally, on the other hand, the procedure is also pragmatic in order to achieve meaningful results and save costs.’

‘We feel very well looked after and have great confidence in the work.’

‘Dr Sabine Konrad and Dr. Maximilian Pika: Both are highly specialized and have a great network, work to a high standard and have a remarkably high level of competence and perception. They can be contacted at any time, always fully know facts, legal questions, procedures and the matter at hand, and also support you with internal processes in connection with the mandate. The work is done in good coordination with the client, but also very independently.’

Key clients

Bundesrepublik Deutschland


Tschechische Republik


Landesbank Baden-Württemberg, Hamburg Commercial Bank AG (vormals HSH Nordbank AG), Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen Girozentrale, Norddeutsche Landesbank-Girozentrale


IuteCredit Europe


Hamburg Commercial Bank AG


VM Solar Jerez GmbH, M Solar Verwaltungs GmbH, Solarizz Holding Verwaltungs-GmbH, M Solar GmbH & Co. KG, Solarizz Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Helmut Vorndran


Wintershall Dea AG


Work highlights


  • Defense of the Federal Republic of Germany in an ICSID arbitration by the Swedish group Vattenfall AB in connection with Germany’s nuclear phase-out.

  • Representing four German banks in an ICSID arbitration against Spain due to its reform of the framework conditions for the energy industry, in particular for renewable energies.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is experienced in representing states as well as companies and most recently, was primarily active in arbitration proceedings involving post-M&A, construction and energy law disputes; the German team often works in close cooperation with the firm's international offices. Richard Kreindler, who is experienced in investment arbitration proceedings among other matters, retired from his  partner positions and has been supporting the practice as senior counsel since the beginning of 2022. Counsel Rüdiger Harms is well versed in both litigation and international arbitration.

Other key lawyers:

Richard Kreindler; Rüdiger Harms


Key clients

Agfa Gevaert Group


Republik Griechenland


McDermott Will & Emery Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater LLP

McDermott Will & Emery Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater LLP regularly advises on investment and commercial arbitrations as well as post-M&A and joint venture disputes and as a party representative, primarily acts for national and international companies in the technology, healthcare, real estate, insurance and automotive industries. Arne Fuchs, who often acts as arbitrator, led the practice until September 2022 and is now with Ashurst LLP.

Testimonials

McDermott has an excellent and well organized arbitration team. They have knowledge and experience of international law, but always strive to take the relevant national law into account. Excellent at fact finding.

Key clients

HeidelbergCement AG


Work highlights


  • Representing HeidelbergCement in an investment arbitration under ICSID rules against the Arab Republic of Egypt.

  • Defending North Macedonia in an investment arbitration under UNCITRAL rules over alleged investments in the mining sector.

Pinsent Masons Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater Solicitors Partnerschaft mbB

Pinsent Masons Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater Solicitors Partnerschaft mbB's international arbitration team is led by Sibylle Schumacher, whose expertise is particularly evident in post-M&A and commercial arbitrations. The practice is primarily active in construction and plant construction disputes, but also handles matters in the automotive and financial sectors. Martin Eimer (litigation and arbitration focused on construction and engineering projects) joined Ashurst LLP in May 2022.

Practice head(s):

Sibylle Schumacher


Other key lawyers:

Alexander Shchavelev


Testimonials

Sibylle Schumacher: Even in complex and legally difficult cases, she succeeds in developing creative solutions and convincing the courts of her point of view.’

‘LegalTech tools developed by Pinsent Masons are sensibly integrated by Sibylle Schumacher into the case management in order to make the process as cost-effective as possible and to create the greatest possible transparency.

The very good organization and atmosphere within the team has had a positive impact on the work done. At the same time, it is ensured that the employees are active on a broad basis (ie not only doing arbitration). As a result, people think more “out of the box” than in pure arbitration teams.’