With 'huge strength in depth in international arbitration', Herbert Smith Freehills LLP‘s London-based team has an enviable excellent track record in achieving arbitral awards, particularly in relation to energy disputes and investor-state conflicts. Global arbitration head Paula Hodges KC is 'a leader in the London market' for energy, telecoms and technology disputes; and Craig Tevendale heads the international arbitration group in London. Also integral to the firm's offering, Andrew Cannon leads the India disputes group; Chris Parker KC 'commands the respect and attention of the room'; James Doe is UK construction disputes practice head; and David Nitek specialises in the resolution of infrastructure, construction and engineering claims. Counsel Marco de Sousa and senior associate Louise Barber are also key team members. During 2023, former senior associates Hannah Ambrose and Charlie Morgan were both made partners, while of counsel Anuradha Agnihotri was recruited from Indian firm Trilegal, where she was partner.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'Extremely deep and capable team at every level, from the most senior silk to the trainee.'
'Strong ability to grasp complex facts and ambiguous areas of law, while still providing practical, useful and strategic advice. Clear communicators, and juniors who are extremely capable and instil confidence in the client.'
‘The strength of the team is how well it works together.’
‘Very strong team with huge strength in depth in international arbitration.’
‘Paula Hodges KC is outstanding and a leader in the London market.'
'Craig Tevendale is a highly persuasive advocate.’
'Chris Parker KC is a very calm advocate and a pleasant and effective opponent, who commands the respect and attention of the room.’
'Andrew Cannon is clear, very well respected, and very efficient.’

Key clients

Star Power Hydro
Chevron
BP
Eni
SCF II
Sinopec
Mylan
Standard Chartered Bank
Vedanta
Woodside

Work highlights

Representing two major international energy companies in a dispute concerning a mega-value oil and gas project in Africa.
Representing the sellers in an LNG price review arbitration against an Asian buyer.
Acting for Star Hydro in two LCIA arbitrations, including a dispute with a government-owned company that owns and manages Pakistan's electricity transmission network.

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.

Paula Hodges

Hall of fameHerbert Smith Freehills LLP

Paula is the head of the global arbitration practice and has over 25 years' experience advising clients in international disputes, particularly in the energy, telecommunications and technology sectors.

Rising stars

Louise Barber

Tozers Solicitors LLP

Louise is an Of Counsel in Herbert Smith Freehills' International Arbitration, Public International Law and ESG Disputes practice in London.

Leading individuals

Andrew Cannon

Hall of fameHerbert Smith Freehills LLP

Andrew is the Global Co-Head of our International Arbitration practice, and of our Public International Law practice. He is head of our India Disputes group and co-head of our Nordic group. He is also Deputy Chair of the firm's Global Pro Bono and Responsible Business Council.