With a robust international litigation group, the interdisciplinary group at Freshfields exhibits particular strengths in managing parallel global proceedings, cross-border enforcement and judgment litigation. The team is a key port of call for both individuals and corporates, showcasing particular experience in FCPA and related-anti-corruption investigations and enforcement proceedings. Gayle Klein retains a prominent litigation reputation across a spectrum of disputes, from complex financial and fraud-related matters to trade secret, non-compete and major contract disputes. Adept in handling transactional and cross-border disputes is Timothy Harkness, who is a major player in cases involving allegations of fraud, breaches of contract and post M&A disputes. With frequent appearances before federal and state courts, as well as in a range of investigations, David Livshiz represents a client roster of multinational corporations, financial institutions, sovereigns, and investment vehicles. Kimberly Zelnick is a regulator powerhouse, well-equipped to act across a range of sectors. Paige von Mehren is another key name within the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team is strategic, thoughtful and exceptionally client focused.’

  • ‘Sweating the details and strategic thinking, proactive approaches vs reactive.'

Key clients

  • Rio Tinto
  • Google
  • MTN Group Ltd.; MTN (Dubai) Ltd.; MTN Afghanistan; Phuthuma Nhleko and Irene Charnley (former executives of MTN Group Ltd.)
  • ConocoPhillips
  • Varex Imaging Corporation
  • Inigo Insurance
  • Next Fifteen Communications Corporation
  • Tensyr Limited
  • Sumitomo Pharma UK Holdings, Ltd.; Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc.; Myovant Sciences Ltd.
  • Various clients in § 1782 applications in cross-border proceedings
  • Tesla Inc

Work highlights

Secured a final historic victory for ConocoPhillips against Venezuela concerning the 2007 expropriation of three major oil investments. Obtained the largest-ever ICSID award of US$8.5 billion-plus (now valued at US$13 billion).
Representing MTN, Africa’s largest mobile-service provider, and two of its subsidiaries in challenging the jurisdiction of a US court in a lawsuit alleging that MTN and numerous other large companies violated the Anti-Terrorism Act by committing intentional torts against US service members and government contractors.
Representing Rio Tinto in US federal climate change class action in Puerto Rico against several oil, gas, and mining defendants.

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.

Paige von Mehren
Paige von Mehren
Practice head

Beth George

Other key lawyers

Timothy Harkness; David Livshiz; Kimberly Zelnick; Paige von Mehren; Gayle Klein