Herbert Smith Freehills LLP advises on high-profile, complex, and precedent-setting disputes with the ‘underlying experience and ability to gain the competitive advantage and win cases’. The group’s construction, engineering and real estate expertise ensures it is sought out by numerous corporates and governmental bodies, but the team is also active in TMT, consumer, leisure and retail, and financial and professional services work. One of the ’sharpest, smartest, and most innovative litigators around’, Stuart Paterson co-leads the practice alongside construction specialist Nick Oury, with both individuals wielding an impressive international reach. Of counsel Sean Whitham and senior associate Janine Mallis are also key names to note. Benjamin Hopps left the firm in early 2024.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Stuart Paterson is so down to earth and very approachable. He thinks outside the box.’
‘HSF is a leading law firm in the Middle East region and for good reason. They have built an international practice that understands local regional laws and nuances involved in litigating and investigating. Their team in Dubai is highly responsive, intelligent, diligent and fun to work with.’
‘Stuart Paterson is not only the managing partner for HSF in the Middle East but also one of the sharpest, smartest, and most innovative litigators around. He has built a strong team that addresses clients needs and guides them through troubled waters.'
- 'Janine Mallis is a senior associate at HSF and one of the most diligent lawyers around. She understands local law as well as cross-border jurisdictional nuances. She is always available and her attention to detail is second to none.’
‘HSF’s global reputation as a disputes firm is very much apparent in their Middle East team. They have the underlying experience and ability to gain the competitive advantage and win cases, but always with effectiveness and resolving disputes efficiently.’
‘Nick Oury has become a prominent name in the market in recent years. He is very personable, responsive and reliable.'
‘Stuart Paterson is peerless in the skill with which he brings to both arbitration and DIFC litigation.’
Key clients
- A Ghurair Investment
- ENGIE
- Emaar
- Ernst & Young
- Sumitomo Corporation
- Tihama Power Generation Company Ltd
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Stuart Paterson, Nick Oury