Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP has long provided a comprehensive service to clients operating in Latin America, with a strong international arbitration practice at the heart of it. With a deep bench across various US offices, as well as a solid regional presence in São Paulo and Mexico City, the firm is well equipped to handle noteworthy commercial and investment treaty arbitrations. Matthew Kirtland, head of the Washington DC international arbitration practice, represents corporate and individual clients in cross-border litigation. Houston-based Kevin O’Gorman, named global co-head of the firm’s international arbitration team in 2025, has particular experience in energy project disputes, as well as those involving sovereigns. Denton Nichols is also an important contact based in Houston, while senior counsel Courtney Hikawa is based in DC.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Top-notch legal advice with a real commercial awareness of the client's objectives’
‘Matthew Kirtland is a superb arbitration practitioner. His keen intellect formulates brilliant arguments, drafted with great sensitivity to the way they will be perceived by the arbitrators. He is also great company. In short, a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
- The Republic of Kazakhstan
- Woodside Energy (Formerly BHP)
- Global Consulting and Mechanical Services
- Unipec America, Inc.
Work highlights
Advised the Republic of Kazakhstan in connection with multiple enforcement proceedings in the US and abroad arising from a $500m Energy Charter Treaty award issued in a contested Stockholm Chamber of Commerce matter concerning oil and gas leases.
Advised a Woodside subsidiary seeking to modify or correct an arbitral award in contentious proceedings in Texas state court in Houston regarding an offshore midstream energy arbitration in which we prevailed.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Kevin O’Gorman
Other key lawyers
Matthew Kirtland; Denton Nichols; Courtney Hikawa