White & Case S.C. boasts a highly reputable international arbitration practice with recent success for key clients in regulated sectors, including securing a $380m ICSID arbitration award for telecoms powerhouse Telefónica against the Republic of Colombia. As well as a strong track record in investor-state disputes, the group is equally adept at tackling commercial arbitration, often involving multijurisdictional challenges and cross-office collaboration. Rafael Llano is acting practice head and a leading partner in the contentious field, with seasoned experience representing foreign investors in arbitrations against the Mexican state, as well as acting as lead negotiator in varying transnational mediations. Carlos Véjar is the key name in handling private commercial arbitration proceedings. However, the August 2025 departure of up-and-coming partner Marièle Coulet-Diaz who handled commercial and investment treaty disputes in the construction, infrastructure and energy sectors, is a loss. Clients also highlight young associate Sabina Hidalgo Peralta.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The team has a very strategic approach to international arbitration. Its knowledge of the case, the depth of the briefs and pleadings are outstanding.'
- 'Rafael Llano and Sabina Hidalgo Peralta are two outstanding lawyers in international arbitration. I was struck by their knowledge of a highly technical dispute. Their attention to detail, case theory and presentation to the arbitral tribunal were outstanding.'
Key clients
- AXA
- CDPQ
- Consolidated Water
- Grupo Energía Bogotá (GEB)
- Telefónica
- Kappes
- Rutas de Lima
- Zurich
- Iberdrola
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.
Practice head
Rafael Llano
Other key lawyers
Marièle Coulet-Diaz; Carlos Véjar; Sabina Hidalgo Peralta