Winston & Strawn LLP continues to increase its presence in Latin American arbitration markets. The firm demonstrates particular expertise in energy-related disputes, exemplified by its representation of a Canadian mining company in an ICSID arbitration against the Republic of Panama. This matter adds to a substantial portfolio of work involving Panamanian industries, complementing the team's broader experience across other jurisdictions, including Mexico. Michael Stepek (London), chair of the international arbitration practice, focuses on disputes involving the control of entities and FDI. Chicago-based Ricardo Ugarte, fluent in both Spanish and English, has served as lead counsel on numerous international commercial arbitrations and possesses deep expertise in Panama-related matters. New York-based Marcelo Blackburn also brings Spanish-language capabilities, while Matthew Bate in London contributes to the firm's most significant infrastructure, energy, and mining disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They have an excellent team, well-trained and experienced in ICC arbitration. They demonstrate extensive knowledge of litigation and dispute resolution.’
‘Availability and ability to resolve disputes, emphasising commercial aspects, also stand out for the integrity, transparency, and ethics with which the team operates.’
Key clients
- Dominion Minerals
- Avanzalia Panama and Avanzalia Solar
- Banco San Juan Internacional (BSJI)
Work highlights
Advising Dominion Minerals Corp. on its claims brought pursuant to the Treaty between the United States and the Republic of Panama concerning the Treatment and Protection of Investments arising out of Dominion’s investment in a copper and gold concession in Western Panama.
Advising Banco San Juan Internacional, Inc. (BSJI) in connection with a UK judgment enforcement action against Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. et al.
Advising Avanzalia on a large lawsuit arising from the defendant’s efforts to block the client’s ability to connect in solar power plant to a Panamanian substation owned by the defendant.
Practice head
Ricardo Ugarte; Michael Stepek
Other key lawyers
Matthew Bate; Marcelo Blackburn