Dispute resolution

Westerberg & Partners

Westerberg & Partners is a firm of choice for high-profile clients involved in cross-border commercial litigation and international arbitration proceedings as well as in relation to the enforcement of foreign judgments and arbitral awards. Practice head Maria Fogdestam Agius has a strong reputation for advising states and private entities on public international law, treaty-based dispute settlements, and international human rights matters. Proficient in Russian and Latvian, Ginta Ahrel specialises in high-profile commercial and investment arbitration with an East Europe nexus. Jesper Tiberg has represented states as well as major banks and industrial companies, and Therese Isaksson has experience handling international trade, construction, energy, IT, and insurance disputes, while Stefan Bessman has 25 years’ experience in insurance and reinsurance coverage disputes.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The Westerberg team combines a wealth of experience in international arbitration with a broad and deep understanding of Swedish law. It has shaped many of the precedents in Swedish arbitration practice and is rightly considered cutting edge both in Sweden and internationally.’
'Maria Fogdestam Agius stands out for her strategic vision and meticulous attention to detail. She is particularly adept at navigating complex legal landscapes, especially in investment arbitration and international disputes. Maria's ability to dissect complicated legal arguments and her persuasive advocacy have been invaluable, especially during high-stakes hearings like those at the Svea Court of Appeals. Her dedication and thoroughness make her a standout figure in any legal team.'
‘Therese Isaksson is a great team leader, particularly in complex cases that require the coordination of many work streams. Olof Olsson is an extremely sharp senior associate. His ability to understand complex factual and legal problems is remarkable, and his writing is superb.'
'Victoria Ribbnäs is recognised for her exceptional research skills and her ability to provide innovative solutions to complex legal challenges. She stands out for her proactive approach, often anticipating potential issues and addressing them before they escalate. Victoria’s keen intellect, combined with her collaborative spirit, ensures that the team’s strategies are both comprehensive and forward-looking.'
‘Ginta Ahrel is exceptional - very bright, hardworking, responsive, diligent and, importantly, an excellent team player. Jesper Tiberg has solid commercial and legal judgment and deep knowledge of the arbitration and court systems. Therese Isaksson brings a unique combination of analytical prowess and client-focused service. She is highly responsive and exhibits a remarkable ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly.'
‘Maria Fogdestam Agius is an outstanding international lawyer with a global reputation, doing cutting edge work in immunities and international disputes in general. She is a strong leader who has developed a global reputation for the team.’
‘This law firm stands out for its exceptional expertise in dispute resolution, offering high-quality legal assistance in complex cases. Its team of lawyers is extremely competent and has a deep understanding of the details of each case, allowing them to provide well-founded and personalised solutions. Compared to other firms, this practice proves to be a leader in implementing creative and adaptable solutions tailored to its clients' needs.’
‘The best law firm in Sweden for re-insurance matters, great also for insurance. Also as this is a smaller law firm, they do not have the interest-conflict issues that can often devil the ability of the biggest law firms to to take dispute resolution cases.'

Key clients

Republic of Ukraine
AIG Europe Insurance Group
Anatolie Stati, Ascom Group S.A. et al
Hitachi Rail Group
Gjensidige Forsikring ASA
Viorel Micula
Aztiq Partners AB
Mista Sp.z.o.o.
NyxAir OÜ
Norrland VA

Work highlights

Acting for the Republic of Ukraine in two separate proceedings to set aside an arbitral award rendered in 2021, regarding a $6bn claim.
Acting for Anatolie Stati et al against the Republic of Kazakhstan and The National Bank of Kazakhstan before the Swedish courts. In late 2021, the Swedish Supreme Court denied sovereign immunity of Kazakh sovereign wealth fund assets located in Sweden. The National Bank has brought new proceedings hindering the release of the funds.
Acting for Hitachi Rail in arbitration and litigation in a major infrastructure dispute with the City of Stockholm. The value of the dispute exceeds €200m in claims and counterclaims.