Akin fields ‘one of the most experienced complex commercial dispute resolution teams in the region’ with the ability to provide ’innovative litigation strategies’. The team is frequently called upon to represent clients in complex, multifaceted cases in both the AGDM and DIFC, while also demonstrating an active international arbitration practice. Team lead Graham Lovett ‘gets the bigger picture and significant aspects of complex disputes’ and is particularly well-regarded for his work regarding shareholder, banking and finance, and fraud issues. The ’exceptional’ Ryan Whelan is a ‘go-to person for complex disputes’, often acting on enforcement, sanctions and infrastructure-related cases. Michael Stewart has experience handling multi-jurisdictional arbitrations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Ryan Whelan is an exceptional lawyer. He is able to understand complex technical issues easily, simplify and add value to clients.’
‘Clients particularly appreciate Graham and Ryan's "hands on" approach and case management. Because of their considerable experience in construction disputes they are able to quickly grasp the implication of technical issues as they arise and respond accordingly.’
‘Ryan Whelan has star quality. Our company had a difficult dispute which had not been going particularly well. Ryan turned the matter around and delivered the first success on the matter in 2 years. He is the go-to person for disputes, and a trusted advisor to the business. He is absolutely relentless in pursuing the client's interest.'
‘The Akin dispute resolution practice in Dubai distinguishes itself from the competition through a blend of having one of the most experienced complex commercial dispute resolution teams in the region, innovative litigation strategies with an unparalleled focus on the broader outcomes for clients and the finer details of matters, and a willingness to go the extra mile for clients.’
‘Graham Lovett is one of the most experienced and respected litigators in the industry. He gets the bigger picture and the significant aspects of complex disputes, and communicates that to clients very well.'
‘With Graham and Ryan, Akin is a powerhouse of litigation experience and knowledge, and a critical strategic partner. Some of the projects which Ryan, in particular, has been involved with in the past has been a driving factor in our desire to work with the firm.'
‘Ryan Wheelan is a rare gem in the legal industry. Ryan is impressively sharp, commercial and strategic, and extremely passionate about what he does (whether for the firm or on socially important legal projects). Ryan is incredibly modest and his stellar reputation, deep understanding of the law firmly places him on the platform alongside the big hitters in the region.'
‘ Graham Lovett is probably the most experienced DIFC disputes and Dubai arbitration lawyer in the business. Real strategic nous. A very canny operator, with a clear vision as to how to play his opponent's last move. Michael Stewart is a rising star in the same field. Super bright in his assessment of any case and the best points for argument.’
Key clients
- DIFC Authority
- DIFC Investments
- Iraq Telecom Limited
- Investcorp
Work highlights
- Acted for DIFC Authority/DIFC Investments on a very large claim for US$500 million brought by Hexagon, the DIFC Authority’s JV partner, who alleged that the DIFC was in breach of an obligation under the JV Agreement to develop a site in the DIFC.
- Acting as project counsel in connection with a US$1.4 billion+ development and representing the employer in subsequent arbitration proceedings following termination of the main contractor.
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Graham Lovett