At Akin, the team is led by Mark Clarke, an experienced solicitor with extensive knowledge of the energy sector, having represented clients in all major arbitration rulesets. Jonathan Brierley is another key member of the team, joining in May 2025 and strengthening the team’s offering in infrastructure and construction disputes, while Alina Sartogo, who joined in November 2025, leverages her experience at the ICC in support of clients. Jenny Arlington continues to provide key knowledge in tech and AI.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- Mark Clarke - 25 years of energy disputes experience, including having spent time as a GC of a global energy company, gives Mark in-depth expertise that sets him apart from the market and makes him the go-to partner for high-value energy disputes. A more personable individual you would have to travel a long way to find, and he is particularly solutions-oriented (a rarity these days in my experience). Jonathan Brierley - Jonathan followed his former colleague Mark above to join Akin. A truly committed client-focused lawyer, there are no stones he has not turned over. Alina Sartogo is a future star that clients rely heavily on. A real star of the future.
- The practice is made up of high-quality practitioners, in particular, with specialist knowledge in energy and construction, who collaborate effectively to ensure their clients receive the best possible service. We have watched them grow from pretty much nothing to a very highly respected practice team.
- Mark Clarke has a very strong understanding of the energy sector, and having spent time recently in-house, is able to bring a relatively unique perspective to clients.
- Jonathan Brierley is incredibly hardworking and attentive to detail. He is very personable.
- Jonathan Brierley has excellent experience and understanding of the energy industry.
- Technical ability, level of support, strength of the team.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Mark Clarke; Jonathan Brierley
Other key lawyers
Jenny Arlington; Alina Sartogo