'Very experienced in PIL work', Herbert Smith Freehills LLP‘s sizeable London practice is widely respected for its investor-state arbitration practice. The team is also highly active in relation to Russia's invasion of Ukraine; COVID-19 pandemic-related international law issues; climate change; and sanctions. It additionally advises multinational energy companies on the implications of political instability. 'A proper PIL expert', Andrew Cannon has extensive experience in acting for states, state-owned entities and companies on substantial PIL issues; and elevated to partner in May 2023, Hannah Ambrose's experience covers investment treaty claims, state immunity, and international organisations' immunity. Within the firm's senior associate ranks, Louise Barber focuses on energy and natural resources-related international arbitrations; and Marco de Sousa has particular experience in disputes involving Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘A diverse team at the top of the dispute resolution field.'

  • 'They have a formidable reputation.’

  • ‘Very experienced in PIL work - one of the few firms that walks the walk.’

  • ‘Andrew Cannon is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in international law - he's seen it all at the FCO, and as a practitioner is a proper PIL expert’

  • ‘Excellent profile in this sector, with huge strength in depth.’

  • ‘All excellent lawyers and very committed.’

Key clients

  • Standard Chartered Bank
  • Vedanta
  • BP
  • Woodside
  • Eni
  • Chevron

Work highlights

  • Acted for Nord Stream 2 in arbitration proceedings against the European Union (EU) under the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), alleging breach by the EU of its ECT obligations.
  • Representing two major international energy companies in a complex, high-value and highly-politicised dispute over an oil and gas project in Africa.
  • Representing a state in ICSID investment treaty arbitration proceedings.

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.
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.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Andrew Cannon

Other key lawyers

Hannah Ambrose, Louise Barber, Marco de Sousa