White & Case LLP stands out for its large and highly experienced Parisian workforce that combines some 50 lawyers, which is complemented by capabilities in Europe and other continents. The firm acts for many prominent companies and has an especially strong footprint in the construction sector, where it regularly manages some of the world’s most high-profile cases linked to canal, road and power plant infrastructure. Energy is another key area of expertise, with the notably team handling highly sensitive gas supply arbitrations in relation to Russia and the Middle East, while its caseload also spans various other industries and issues, such as telecoms, tax, insurance and M&A. The practice is regularly involved in matters linked to Africa (particularly Nigeria and Ghana), the Middle East and Europe, while its client base of leading French corporations continues to grow. Prominent arbitration experts Michael Polkinghorne and Charles Nairac co-head the team, which also includes the excellent Christophe von Krause, Andrew de Lotbinière McDougall, John Willems and Elizabeth Oger-Gross. Nicolas Bouchardie, Lucas De Ferrari, Noor Davies and Samy Markbaoui are also key names in the practice. Tolu Obamuroh also deserves a mention.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Elizabeth Oger-Gross and Tolu Obamuroh have both demonstrated professionalism, efficiency, expertise and effective communication skills in matters they handle.’
- ‘A clearly competent team who took the time to educate us on the legal issues we were dealing with and patiently guided us in arriving at important lines of actions to take.’
- ‘The individuals were very warm and friendly while maintaining very strong work ethics. Tolu Obamuroh was always quick to prepare us for the next steps and was always available. His interpersonal skills are commendable.’
- 'They are very available and well-prepared, providing a top-notch service.'
- 'Excellent knowledge of the players in the construction sector. High-quality litigation strategy, argumentation, and written submissions. Excellent listening skills as well. Availability and responsiveness.'
- ‘A team of lawyers that have demonstrated professionalism, competence and expertise in the area of arbitration.’
Key clients
- Ministry of Justice of Georgia
- The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Inter-State Gas Systems
- Webuild (formerly Salini Impregilo S.p.A)., Sacyr S.A., Jan De Nul N.V., Grupo Unidos por el Canal, S.A. (Panama Canal)
- Federal Republic of Nigeria
- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Iraq Telecom Limited
- Agility Public Warehousing Company K.S.C.P.
- Export Development Canada
- Zagrebačke otpadne vode d.o.o
Work highlights
Representing Georgia in a number of ongoing arbitrations.
Representing the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Inter-State Gas Company (ISGS) in an ad hoc arbitration under the UNCITRAL Rules arising from a French law gas supply agreement between ISGS and Iran’s NIOC pertaining to the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project.
Representing Grupo Unidos por el Canal S.A. and its shareholders WeBuild (formerly Salini Impregilo S.p.A)., Sacyr S.A., and Jan De Nul N.V. in a dispute with the Panama Canal Authority relating to the US$5.5 billion Panama Canal expansion project.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Charles Nairac; Michael Polkinghorne
Other key lawyers
Christophe von Krause; Andrew de Lotbinière McDougall; John Willems; Elizabeth Oger-Gross; Nicolas Bouchardie; Lucas De Ferrari; Noor Davies; Samy Markbaoui; Tolu Obamuroh