Europe - France
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Dispute resolution: International arbitration

Derains & Gharavi

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Leading arbitration boutique Derains & Gharavi is appointed by state entities such as Iran, India and Romania that are among its key clients, as well as large corporations, especially in the TMT sector, and high-net worth individuals. The practice manages a heavy investment caseload, notably in relation to Iran and Libya where it acts in high-stake disputes pertaining notably to the oil and gas and banking sectors. The team also handles commercial arbitration and exequatur proceedings, dealing with a variety of issues including renewal energy, telecoms and construction. Hamid Gharavi , who handles cases as counsel and arbitrator, is the practice's frontman. Also recognised are world’s renowned arbitrator Yves Derains,  Bertrand Derains,  and Emmanuel Foy . Melanie van Leeuwen and Sophia von Dewall left the firm early 2025.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘High expertise and deep knowledge in international law and ability to use that expertise and knowledge to expand on the facts of the case and come up with strategic and creative ways of resolving disputes. The team as a whole is highly focused on the client’s satisfaction as they are patient and readily available to answer questions, give advice and keep the client informed on its case. ’
  • ‘Dedication, professionally approach and conduct, excellence in services.’
  • ‘Very high-level team capable of resolving the most complex cases. True mastery of different legal systems. Multicultural team.’
  • ‘Great team spirit, great client care.’
  • ‘Dr Gharavi is an outstanding advocate, particularly skilled in process examination. He is also an excellent arbitrator.
  • ‘Hamid Gharavi is always extremely creative and helpful and that makes him an irreplaceable asset to a team. ’
  • ‘Hamid Gharavi. Extremely brilliant and able to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a case in record time. Extremely respected by opposing counsel and arbitrators.’
  • ‘Yves Derains is very experienced, managed the procedure and the hearing admirably, and is collegiate and sensible when preparing the award.’

Key clients

  • Alcatel/Nokia
  • Arab Republic of Egypt
  • Central Bank of Iran
  • IMAL s.r.l.
  • Naftiran Intertrade Co. (NICO) Limited
  • Republic of India
  • Republic of the Sudan
  • Romania
  • RTL Group
  • Saad Buzwair Automotive Co
  • TRASTA Energy Limited
  • United Nations
  • Vinci
  • WeBuild S.p.A.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Yves Derains, Hamid Gharavi, Bertrand Derains, Emmanuel Foy