Praised by clients for its 'exceptionally knowledgeable lawyers, highly anticipative and total engagement in matters', key areas of focus for the international trade practice at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP include trade remedies, sanctions, exports, customs, market access, Brexit, subsidies and trade policies. Based between the London and Brussels offices, practice head Lode Van Den Hende - noted for his ' incredibly detailed knowledge of state aid and trade' - specialises in EU regulatory matters and international trade regulation. Eric White focuses his practice on WTO law and EU rules governing trade with non-EU countries. Susannah Cogman is a key contact for sanctions-related matters, especially in the context of Iranian, Russian, Syrian and Libyan related sanctions. Morris Schonberg is well versed in anti-dumping and anti-subsidy investigations, as well as matters involving WTO, customs and internationals sanctions. Daniel Hudson left the firm in April 2023 to join Seladore Legal.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Eric White is one of the most experienced European jurists. He leverages his deep understanding of the EU founding principles, precedents of their application and regulations to develop winning strategies. While being very economical with words, he is always very precise with their meaning.’
‘Lode Van Den Hende leads an excellent team.'
‘Exceptionally knowledgeable lawyers, highly anticipative and total engagement in matters. The team is tight knit and this makes a lot of difference, especially in case of new and complex matters.’
‘Eric White is thorough, clear, calm and very responsive. We trust him fully!’
‘The team are exceptionally strong in state aid as well as trade and anti-dumping. They are very innovative in their approach in advising clients, particularly in the area of the Foreign Subsidies Regulation, which is a new area and an area where there are no precedents. HSF collaborate extremely well across their different practices and always involve the most relevant lawyers in cases.’
‘The standout individuals that I have worked with are Lode van Den Hende and Morris Schonberg. Lode has incredibly detailed knowledge of state aid and trade and is very sharp in advising clients on very complex matters. Morris is exceptionally dedicated and committed to helping solve issues faced by clients and leaves no stone unturned in his approach.’
Key clients
- AerCap
- Southern African Customs Union
- British American Tobacco
Work highlights
- Acting for AerCap in claims under its aviation insurance policies relating to the loss of aircraft and engines in Russia following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the imposition of international sanctions.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Lode Van Den Hende