DLA Piper has a solid Paris-based team that can benefit from the firm’s strong international capabilities in managing all manner of commercial and investment arbitration cases. The practice is frequently involved in matters relating to Africa (particularly in the Republic of the Congo and Mozambique), where it handles prominent mining disputes, as well as acting in investment disputes linked to Eastern Europe and the CIS (especially Georgia). The team mostly acts for companies, while some states also use the firm (including Hungary). The team is co-headed by Alexander Brabant and Théobald Naud. Séréna Salem and Ophélie Divoy also deserve a mention. Of note, Michael Ostrove transferred to the New York office.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘DLA's global presence and client focus set them apart. Despite being one of the largest firms in the world we receive personal attention that you would normally only expect from a boutique firm.’
- ‘Alexander Brabant has gone above and beyond with his support in arbitral proceedings.’
- ‘Séréna Salem is extremely bright, diligent and efficient. An excellent lawyer and great to work with.’
- ‘DLA Piper’s Paris arbitration practice benefits from the resources of one of the world’s largest global firms, while maintaining a strong presence locally. The team is valued for its international outlook, ability to manage multi-jurisdictional proceedings, and a pragmatic, results-oriented approach.’
- ‘Théobald Naud is one of the central figures of the practice. He has acted in numerous commercial and investment arbitrations. He is recognised for his persuasive advocacy, his strategic mindset, and his ability to handle high-stakes disputes involving both states and multinational corporations. His international profile and courtroom presence distinguish him from many of his peers.'
- 'Ophélie Divoy is noted for her technical rigour, multilingual skills (French, English, Spanish), and her versatility across industries such as energy, life sciences, and telecommunications.’
- ‘Intellectually strong, and quality of advocacy was excellent, as well as the ability to master the brief quickly and communicate key points clearly.’
- 'Rigorous work. Engaged and invested team.'
Work highlights
Representing AVZ Minerals Limited and its affiliates in a series of inter-related arbitrations in respect of a multibillion-dollar lithium project.
Acting in a EUR30 million+ ICSID arbitration brought by UK national Christopher Jock Murdoch MacKenzie with respect to an investment in the waste management sector.
Representing a majority-owned subsidiary of Talbot Group Investments Pty Ltd, in a USD 300 million ICSID arbitration against the Republic of Mozambique.
Practice head
Alexander Brabant; Théobald Naud
Other key lawyers
Séréna Salem; Ophélie Divoy