ICSID arbitrations and investor-state arbitrations for sovereign states constitute a core area of work for the international disputes team at Baker Botts (UK) LLP. Practice head Johannes Koepp has notable expertise advising on international arbitrations in the telecoms, defence, and financial services industries, while Alejandro Escobar acts for governments, corporations, and state entities on matters regarding investment contracts, ICSID arbitrations, and treaty issues. Dorine Farah is another key contact for investment treaty arbitration, as is David Turner. Also in the core team, Ernesto Féliz De Jesús has a focus on Latin American disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘An exceptional partner is Alejandro Escobar, a true authority on international law, vastly experienced in international arbitration, a wise counsellor and totally reliable practitioner.’

  • ‘What truly sets this team apart is their exceptional level of commitment. Their dedication goes far beyond what is typically expected, and it is matched by an unparalleled depth of experience in international public law disputes.'

  • ‘In comparison to other firms, this team distinguishes itself not only by the quality of its legal work but by its relentless focus on client needs and strategic outcomes. Clients will find a group that is not only highly skilled but also deeply invested in their cases, often bringing innovative approaches to collaboration and cross-border coordination. Their insight into regional dynamics and legal frameworks in Latin America is second to none.’

  • ‘The team is a master of multi-jurisdictional complex international arbitration.’

  • ‘Alejandro Escobar is a cerebral and creative strategist. Jack Biggs is an up-and-coming superstar in the field of international arbitration who punches way above his weight. Irene Zegarra-Ballon is wise beyond her years and is a unique value-add to any team in the field of international arbitration.’

  • ‘Johannes Koepp and David Turner, both London office. Both very experienced and with deep insights into investment protection law, whilst being open to the particularities and differences in different jurisdictions' procedural principles/systems. Impressive!’

  • ‘Very knowledgeable and truly international team.’

  • ‘Johannes Koepp is a very convincing, yet thoughtful advocate and very bright.’

Key clients

  • Republic of Iraq
  • Republic of Peru

Lawyers

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Practice head

Johannes Koepp

Other key lawyers

Alejandro Escobar; Irene Zegarra-Ballon; Jack Biggs; Dorine Farah; Ernesto Feliz De Jesus; David Turner