Led by Laurent Gouiffès, Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP develops a solid Parisian based practice that is well known for its strong ICC and Africa expertise, while also handling a good amount of work in relation to South America (notably Mexico by combining forces with the firm’s Miami office). The practice, which manages both investment and commercial disputes, mostly acts for commercial companies but a number of European, South American and Africa states are also clients. Its caseload is quite diverse, spanning oil and gas, telecoms, joint venture, M&A, and construction and infrastructure issues. Of note, the team recently won a major victory in an investment dispute for its client the state of Colombia. Key team members include Thomas Kendra , Melissa Ordonez and senior associate Lucas Aubry .
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘They are perfectly bilingual and have a quick and precise understanding of legal and technical issues. They are quite responsive and define litigation strategies that reassure clients both in the context of expert procedures and arbitrations.’
- ‘Laurent Gouiffès’ significant experience is crucial to clarify issues in a dispute, and to ensure an effective litigation strategy, particularly in the context of cases in Africa. Lucas Aubry is very effective’.
- ‘Very strong esprit de corps. Super nice people that are a pleasure to work with.’
- ‘Good expertise in the Middle East with knowledge of the specific aspects of this region; good mastery of the arbitration procedure and ability to intervene at all stages ; good collaboration and ability to adapt the strategy to any unforeseen changes’.
- ‘Laurent Gouiffès is a true leader: very intelligent, very dedicated, expert in Middle Eastern affairs, very convincing in his communication with the client, open to new ideas, an excellent strategist who masters the subject of arbitration.’
- 'Invaluable in terms of experience with the ICC arbitration, depth of expertise in complex commercial and investment disputes, and hands-on approach on cases.'
- 'Thomas Kendra is able to devise effective advocacy strategies, covering all relevant legal and factual aspects of complex cases. He is one of the most effective lawyers in cross examinations and tackle open issues in cases.'
Key clients
- Republic of Colombia
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
Work highlights
- Representing the Republic of Colombia in an investment arbitration initiated by Neustar.
- Representing the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an investment arbitration in the financial sector, initiated by one of Africa’s biggest investment banks.
Lawyers
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Practice head
Laurent Gouiffès
Other key lawyers
Thomas Kendra; Melissa Ordonez; Lucas Aubry