Combining strengths in arbitration and award enforcement, DLA Piper LLP (US) leverages a deep US-based bench operating within a fully integrated global arbitration platform, to handle a range of commercial and investment arbitrations across the energy, natural resources and life sciences sectors. Jointly heading the group is Kate Brown de Vejar, who boasts a well-established client base of private corporations, sovereign states and state-owned entities, placing notable emphasis on high-value proceedings under leading institutional and ad hoc rules, including ICC and treaty-based frameworks such as NAFTA. Alongside Brown de Veja, is co-head Michael Ostrove, a reputed figure in the arbitration space, who has a strong track record in public international law disputes and French and English language proceedings. Kiera Gans exhibits skills as both arbitrator and counsel in complex international commercial and investor-state disputes. James Berger and Charlene Sun are well positioned to handle the enforcement of arbitral awards and foreign judgments. All team members are based in New York.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘They exhibit high professionalism, collaboration, cooperation, reliability, correct and timely responses to the issue raised, great human respect for its clients.’
- ‘In an era of digital noise, those who can navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, maintain calm under pressure, and establish authentic trust are the primary differentiations. I am impressed by Michael Ostrove for engaging in processes, discussing them, and demonstrating high intelligence and knowledge regarding all issues raised.’
- ‘The team is highly dedicated and consistently demonstrates strong work ethic and responsiveness. Their ability to manage complex, cross‑border matters and coordinate effectively across offices is a clear strength. Clients would appreciate the team’s practical approach, clear communication, and willingness to go the extra mile during time‑sensitive phases of a case. Compared to other firms, the practice stands out for its collaborative culture and the accessibility of senior lawyers throughout the engagement.'
- 'The firm has also shown openness to innovation, particularly in the way it integrates technology into case management and encourages cross‑functional collaboration among partners, associates, and of counsel.'
- ‘The individuals I have worked with stand out for their professionalism, diligence, and ability to remain calm and solution‑oriented under pressure. They distinguish themselves from competitors through their responsiveness, cultural awareness, and willingness to explain complex issues in a clear and practical manner. In particular, the stand‑out partners and associates demonstrate: strong strategic judgment consistent availability thoughtful coordination with internal and external stakeholders genuine commitment to achieving the client’s objectives Their combination of technical expertise and collaborative attitude has been especially valuable.’
- ‘Maintains a level of excellence above the peer group. Focuses on the quality of the work product.’
- ‘Elena Rizzo is responsive to requests and thorough in follow-up. She helps frames the issues for positive outcomes. Kate Brown de Vejar builds an excellent team, maintains motivation, provides feedback to improve the work product, and prevents non-value-added work.’
- ‘The DLA Piper International Arbitration team is uniquely positioned to support clients in complex cross-border disputes, reflecting the truly international nature of its practice. The team brings together leading international arbitration specialists and lawyers with strong local and cultural insight into clients’ home jurisdictions, enabling close collaboration and clear communication throughout the arbitration process. The team’s diverse composition—across jurisdictions, professional backgrounds, and perspectives—enhances its ability to address the varied expectations and legal needs of international clients. Lawyers work proactively and collaboratively, maintaining a holistic view of each matter while delivering practical and strategic advice. Compared to other firms, the practice stands out for its seamless global collaboration, inclusive team culture, and client-focused approach, which together ensure consistent, high-quality representation tailored to the specific needs of each client.’
- ‘Kiera Gans is highly regarded for her strategic leadership and ability to identify key issues from multiple perspectives, including points that may not be immediately apparent. Her timely and thoughtful insights have been central to effective internal decision-making and have built strong trust in her leadership of complex matters. Donghyun Kim has been particularly valued for his professionalism, responsiveness, and practical approach. He has played a key role in facilitating efficient internal decision-making by providing timely research and clear, jurisdiction-sensitive advice aligned with the legal framework familiar to our headquarters’ management. The strong coordination across the wider team, including capable and well-integrated associates, has further enhanced the effectiveness of both partners’ leadership and contributed to the overall quality and efficiency of the service.’
Key clients
- Avenue Therapeutics, Inc.
- Cube Infrastructure Managers
- Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
- Goldgroup Resources
- J&F Investimentos
- Mercuria Energy Group Ltd.
- Ministry of National Economy, Hungary
- Qatar Pharma
- Rusoro Mining Limited
- UpHealth Holdings, Inc.
Work highlights
Representing AVZ, an Australian company, in a US$8 billion+ ICSID arbitration against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and a series of related ICC arbitrations relating to the Manono Lithium and Tin Project.
Representing Sistema de Transporte Colectivo de la Ciudad de Mexico (STC), Mexico City’s public transport system authority, in a complex ICC arbitration arising from a US$2 billion project to refurbish Mexico City’s Metro Line 1.
Represented J&F Investimentos, the owners of Eldorado in three, parallel arbitrations arising from one of the largest corporate disputes in Brazilian history.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Kate Brown de Vejar; Michael Ostrove
Other key lawyers
Kiera Gans; James Berger; Charlene Sun; Donghyun Kim; Elena Rizzo