Essex Court Chamber is highly regarded for its work in matters relating to the commercial aspects of large-scale energy and natural-resources litigation, drawing on the set’s international arbitration expertise. Among its standout silks is Paul Key KC, who recently acted as lead counsel for Petrochemical Holdings in one of the largest ICSID arbitration claims ever brought against Romania, included allegations of corruption by the country’s former President. Graham Dunning KC was successful as lead counsel for the Kurdistan Regional Government Minister of Oil and Natural Resources in a claim for more than $1.5bn relating to change of control of two blocks under PSCs in Northern Iraq. New silk Anton Dudnikov KC, described as a ‘top-shelf barrister’, is greatly sought after. He recently acted for a subsidiary of Shell in a $1+bn dispute relating to an oil field off the coast of Nigeria.
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Profile
Position
In private practice as a barrister since 1997, specialising in international and commercial law, and, in particular, international commercial arbitration and treaty arbitration. Regularly advises and appears as counsel before the English courts and international arbitrations in many countries. Also has extensive experience as an arbitrator in ad hoc and institutional international arbitration. Awarded ‘Chambers & Partners’ Junior Barrister of the Year in the field of international arbitration in 2012.
Career
Called 1997 (England and Wales). Also called to New Zealand Bar; New York Bar; New South Wales Bar; Queensland Bar; and Victoria Bar. Visiting senior lecturer in arbitration law, King’s College, London.
Memberships
American Society of International Law; Commercial Bar Association (COMBAR); International Law Association (UK representative on International Arbitration Committee); ILA; ICCA; LCIA; LCLBA.
Education
Auckland University (LLB Hons); Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge (PhD).
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'They have an exceptionally strong team, both of KCs and juniors. Joe Ferrigno's clerking team - Ollie Butcher and Samantha Wright come in for special mention - are personable, professional and easy to pick up the phone to.'
- 'The clerks are very good, competent and reasonable.'
- 'A good number of lawyers with experience in the sector.'
- 'Essex Court consistently produces high quality talent in this space.'
- 'Top to bottom great quality, great talent in all types of arbitration and commercial litigation.'