Withers LLP‘s ’truly global team’ in London is widely lauded for its investment treaty arbitration work. The practice also has notable international commercial arbitration credentials, in relation to the Middle East, Africa and CIS regions. ‘Experienced leadership’ is provided by Hussein Haeri KC; Eleni Polycarpou acts in international arbitration proceedings under different arbitration rules; and Robert Kovacs’ caseload covers international commercial and investor-state arbitrations. The group also includes Camilla Gambarini, whose track record includes ICC, UNCITRAL, LCIA, CIAC and CAM proceedings. International arbitration specialist Vee Vian Thien joined from Three Crowns LLP in September 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘A great mix of wily strategists and those who crunch the details.’
‘They are a truly global team with genuine experts spanning most major jurisdictions, in particular the Middle East, Far East and Russia. A firm to back to win a difficult case against the odds.’
‘The team headed by Hussein Haeri is highly experienced, knowledgeable and pleasant. The client's needs are well looked after and the service is first class.’
‘Wither's team is very unique and made up of strong individuals. Most importantly, experienced leadership is provided by Hussein Haeri KC.’
‘Hussein Haeri KC is a precise advocate and excellent negotiator, who interacts well with clients.’
‘Eleni Polycarpou leads an excellent team with great skill and distinction. She has deep experience of arbitration in many different jurisdictions and institutions, and is adept at finding creative solutions to new and difficult problems.’
Key clients
- Qatar National Bank
- Gruppo Officine Piccini
- Government of Georgia
Work highlights
Representing Qatar National Bank in ICSID proceedings against the Republic of Sudan and Central Bank of Sudan, in large-value claims under a Murabaha agreement.
Acting for Gruppo Officine Piccini in ICSID proceedings under the Italy-Cameroon BIT, arising from the Government of Cameroon's expropriation of a construction contract for the Africa Cup’s Yaounde football stadium.
Defending the Government of Georgia in transportation sector-related ICSID proceedings, initiated by Mirian Dekanoidze and TG Trade under the USA-Georgia BIT.
Lawyers
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.
Practice head
Hussein Haeri KC; Eleni Polycarpou
Other key lawyers
Robert Kovacs; Camilla Gambarini; Vee Vian Thien; Ruzin Dagli; Christopher Birks; Peter Wood; Roberto Moruzzi; Lesley Timms; Geoffrey Cox KC; Julia Filippova; Eliza Saunders; Yana Bychkova