Stephenson Harwood‘s international arbitration team is best known for its expertise in Africa, India and Middle East-related commercial disputes. The team is also routinely mandated to assist with high-stakes enforcement proceedings; while its sector specialisms include aviation, energy, international trade, commodities, shipping, and financial services. Kamal Shah has acted as the international arbitration practice head since January 2025; Jide Adesokan represents African corporations in commercial arbitrations; and Ben Sigler is ’a true superstar’. Other names to note are Charlotte Welsh and Henry Simpson. In 2025, renowned international arbitration specialist Stuart Dutson joined from Simmons & Simmons in June, while Rovine Chandrasekera departed in September.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Stephenson Harwood stands out for its deep commitment to professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and strong collaborative ethos.’
- ‘Consistently demonstrates an exceptional level of competence, legal rigour, and strategic thinking.’
- ‘What differentiates Stephenson Harwood from many firms is the seamless integration of high-quality legal analysis with practical, commercially-sound advice.’
- ‘Their ability to grasp complex factual matrices and legal issues quickly, while balancing jurisdictional sensitivities, is particularly impressive. Clients looking for a firm that blends technical expertise with clarity of communication and client focus will find Stephenson Harwood to be an excellent choice.’
- ‘Kamal Shah and Jide Adesokan stand out for their exceptional leadership, clarity of thought, and ability to navigate procedural complexities with confidence and precision.’
- ‘Kamal Shah and Jide Adesokan are consistently calm under pressure and provide sound, actionable advice that helps shape the direction of proceedings. Their strategic insight and attention to detail are instrumental in ensuring that the client’s interests remain at the forefront of the arbitration.’
Key clients
- Gail (India)
- Nigerian National Petroleum Co
- IBL Group
- Bidco Group
- Primefuels Group
- Ministry of Petroleum, Nigeria
- Ministry of Justice of Iraq
- Sapura Energy
- Total Promotions
Work highlights
Acting for GAIL (India) in a large-value dispute against SEFE Marketing & Trading Singapore Pte, the dispute involving sanctions and complex contractual issues.
Assisting one of Africa's largest banking groups in an approximately $60m shareholder dispute, concerning the exercise of a put option and applicable interest.
Acting for an African conglomerate in an arbitration with a large shipping line, the dispute concerning allegations that the African conglomerate breached two shareholder agreements.
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Charlotte Welsh
Practice head
Kamal Shah
Other key lawyers
Jide Adesokan; Ben Sigler; Charlotte Welsh; Henry Simpson; Stuart Dutson; Daniel Boon; Adetola Adebesin; Isabelle Wenger; Ellen Dixon