Noted for its ‘strategic understanding of complex, cross-border matters’, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP’s contentious construction practice is regularly instructed by leading players across the energy, mining, and real estate sectors. The team has a broad client offering, demonstrating specialist expertise across litigation, adjudication and international arbitration. Practice chair James Doe is a first-choice expert on domestic and international arbitrations within the energy sector. Mike McClure KC is geared to handle international arbitrations and litigation at all levels of the courts. Raeesa Rawal is experienced in handling mandates from a diverse manner of stakeholders in the energy sector, while Xavier Milne is regularly instructed in cross-border disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer provided an excellent service during a very substantial construction arbitration. They were knowledgeable, hard working and managed a very tricky three week trial extremely well.’
- ‘James Doe was an excellent partner, but the case was really driven forward by Xavier Milne. He was the linchpin of the broader team and did an excellent job.'
- ‘Depth and breadth of arbitration experience. Very commercial approach and strong commercial understanding. Work very well as a team. Strong client focus, self driven to achieve excellent results.’
- ‘The HSFK construction team is one of the most experienced in the region. They are particularly notable for cross-office working, bringing the right shape of team and expertise to suit the client. They really are top notch.’
- ‘My experience is that the individuals are very approachable, accessible and a joy to work with. I have been particularly impressed with Xavier Milne who is an excellent lawyer and enjoyable to work with.’
- ‘A deep bench of sector-specialist lawyers, exceptional responsiveness, and a collaborative approach that blends international reach with local insight. Consistently demonstrates a strategic understanding of complex, cross-border matters, particularly within the power and energy sectors.’
Key clients
- Star Hydro
Work highlights
Advised Star Hydro in three LCIA arbitrations against CPPA-G and GOP concerning tariff issues under a PPA issued under the 2002 Power Policy.
Advising a Power Plant Operator in an ICC arbitration against an international contractor consortium regarding the construction of a biomass power plant.
Advising an energy major on its LCIA arbitration against an international contractor regarding the construction of an offshore gas pipeline.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
James Doe
Other key lawyers
Mike McClure KC; Raeesa Rawal; Xavier Milne; Joel Halliday; Jerome Temme