Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP is known for solely representing state entities in large investment disputes in which the Paris office often acts in close cooperation with the firm’s other international offices, including in New York. The practice is notably handling high-stakes cases for Kazakhstan and the Republic of the Congo, while also managing subsequent exequatur and set-aside proceedings before the French courts. Some commercial arbitration work is also dealt with. The team is co-headed by Geoffroy Lyonnet and Peter Wolrich. Also involved are Remy Lerner and Marie-Claire Argac.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Peter Wolrich is one of the foremost advocates at the international arbitration bar.’
  • ‘Very well prepared, first-class experience, top performance, professional approach and reliable advice.’
  • ‘Their arbitration team stands out for its strong international profile and deep expertise in both commercial and investment disputes. Known for its strategic, multilingual approach and experience before major arbitral institutions (ICC, LCIA, ICSID, UNCITRAL), the team offers a precise, partner-led service and practical client focus.’
  • ‘Responsiveness, cross-cultural understanding, and ability to manage complex, high-stakes cases efficiently. The practice also distinguishes itself through innovative use of technology, flexible billing options, and a commitment to diversity and collaboration across offices.’
  • ‘The international arbitration practice is commendable. The team comprises highly skilled lawyers who efficiently manage complex cases and demonstrate effective collaboration across their global network of offices.’
  • ‘Marie-Claire Argac is a formidable lawyer; she masters all the aspects of the case. Her writing is clear and precise, her oral arguments are persuasive, and her cross-examinations are very effective.'

Key clients

  • The Republic of Kazakhstan
  • Government of Romania
  • Republic of the Congo

Work highlights

Representing the Republic of Kazakhstan in an ICSID arbitration initiated by an Estonian company.
Representing Romania in an intra-EU renewable energy case.
Representing the Republic of the Congo against a Congolese company that held a mining exploitation permit over the Avima iron ore deposit located in the Sangha department of the Congo.

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.

Geoffroy Lyonnet
Geoffroy Lyonnet
Peter Wolrich
Peter Wolrich
Practice head

Geoffroy Lyonnet; Peter Wolrich

Other key lawyers

Remy Lerner; Marie-Claire Argac