Withers is recognized for its multijurisdictional arbitrations, particularly related to the MENA region and Latin America, as well as enforcement proceedings brought in the US. The team is particularly skilled at handling investment treaty disputes, acting for both investors and States. ICSID and UNCITRAL arbitration rules are both areas of expertise, as well as disputes arising out of investments by Asian parties in Africa. Having joined the firm in April 2024 from Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, Floriane Lavaud leads the team, with experience working on high-profile commercial and treaty arbitration, particularly those related to the Middle East. Also in New York, Christopher LaVigne focuses on representing digital asset companies, while Stephen Younger represents financial institutions and hedge funds in complex arbitration matters. Jovana Crncevic represents clients in a number of international arbitration matters, and frequently acts on the enforcement of arbitration awards.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Key clients
- Qatar Airways
- Gramercy Funds Management LLC and Gramercy Peru Holdings LLC
- Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd.
- Frazer Solar GmbH
Work highlights
Represented Qatar Airways, the flag carrier of the State of Qatar, in relation to four international investment arbitrations against the United Arab Emirates (“UAE”), the Kingdoms of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and the Arab Republic of Egypt (together, the “Four States”).
Represented Gramercy Funds Management LLC, and Gramercy Peru Holdings LLC (together, “Gramercy”) against Peru in UNCITRAL proceedings seeking compensation under a free trade agreement between the U.S. and Peru.
Acted for Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd. (“Zhongshan”) in the enforcement of an arbitral award against the Federal Republic of Nigeria (“Nigeria”) in various jurisdictions.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Floriane Lavaud
Other key lawyers
Christopher LaVigne; Stephen Younger; Jovana Crncevic