Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP‘s practice is well known for its representation of state and state-owned entities, as well as its experience in high-stakes international commercial disputes; and in addition to its renowned energy credentials, the practice covers the infrastructure, industrial, telecoms and technology sectors. Jonathan Leach leads the commercial arbitration practice; ’outstanding performer’ Mark Howarth in Leeds is energy disputes head; and Richard Little specialises in complex cross-border matters. The next line of practitioners includes James McKenzie, who is ‘a real standout’; international commercial and investor-state arbitration specialist, Wilson Antoon; Katia Finkel, whose caseload includes energy-related conflicts; Sheena Buddhdev, who represents major corporations and financial institutions in international arbitrations; and Kate Lomas, who is ’a star of the future’. During 2024, Joaquin (Jack) Terceño, whose track record includes multiple international commercial and investor-state treaty arbitrations, joined from Freshfields, while Manchester-based Luisa Zukowski was made partner.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ’An excellent team that offers an extremely high-quality service and substantial experience in highly-complex disputes in the construction, infrastructure and energy industries.’
- ‘First-class, all-round service team. The ESI group is solid, sensible and commercial in its approach.’
- ‘The team takes a very thorough and rigorous approach to its work. The advice is both thoughtful and pragmatic.’
- ‘Mark Howarth is an outstanding performer - excellent with clients, knows how to liaise well with the Bar, but can also stand on his own two feet as an advocate.’
- ‘Kate Johnston - a star of the future. Kate is a master of the factual and technical detail, and shows excellent judgement and tactical nous.’
‘James McKenzie is a real standout. He is incredibly responsive and has a great grasp of the issues.’
‘Luisa Zukowski is a star new partner, and is able to manage complex disputes with ease and grace; and Katia Finkel is brilliant at breaking down complex issues into clear, understandable language - no legal jargon, just straight, audience-friendly communication.’
‘Shalagh Massingham - she assembles and leads the team brilliantly, always keeping focused on what the client needs, the commercial realities, and the strategic plan.’
'Quick, flexible, with great, very balanced communication and negotiations skills.'
'Ownership – the individuals we worked with embraced our problems as their own and worked relentlessly with us, through ups and downs, until they were solved.'
Key clients
- National Iranian Oil Company
- Malaysia’s Minister of Finance (Incorporated)
- 1Malaysia Development Berhad
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.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Wilson Antoon
Katia Finkel
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
Jonathan Leach
Other key lawyers
Mark Howarth; Richard Little; James McKenzie; Wilson Antoon; Katia Finkel; Sheena Buddhdev; Kate Lomas; Joaquin (Jack) Terceño; Luisa Zukowski; Alex Cook; Shalagh Massingham