

K&L Gates
Client SatisfactionK&L Gates combines extensive local knowledge and disputes expertise to represent clients in complex construction and commercial litigation and arbitration. Team head Jonathan Sutcliffe is a ‘truly outstanding lawyer’ who is recognised for his strength in arbitration and experience in multiple international centres. Nazanin Aleyaseen ‘excels in cross-border disputes’, and Jennifer Paterson is active in a range of cases including commercial contracts and employment issues.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The dispute resolution practice at K&L Gates UAE stands out for its expertise in arbitration and international litigation, offering clients a robust and diverse team with significant experience in handling complex cross-border disputes. What makes this practice unique is their deep understanding of local regulations combined with a global perspective, which allows it to seamlessly navigate both domestic and international arbitration frameworks.’
‘The individuals I work with at K&L Gates UAE stand out for their deep expertise, client-focused approach, and ability to handle complex disputes with ease. Nazanin Aleyaseen excels in cross-border disputes, blending strategic thinking with creative solutions. Her leadership and collaborative style foster innovative results. Jennifer Paterson is a skilled international litigator, known for her calm, analytical approach and strong client relationships.
‘ The team is very responsive and have the ability to allocate resources at short notice.'
‘Jonathan Sutcliffe and Matt Smith are knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.’
‘They have provided good solid strategies which have proven to be correct.’
‘Jennifer Paterson is an excellent lawyer who combines strategic excellence with diligence, attention to detail and hard work.’
‘The practice is very strong on arbitration and litigation. The partners give personal attention to the matter, rather than handing everything off to associates. They have long-standing presence in the UAE and are therefore very experienced in the nuances of arbitration and dispute resolution in the UAE and the region.’
‘Jonathan Sutcliffe is a truly outstanding lawyer, who is very responsive to our needs. He always makes us feel like we are his most important client, even when he is also busy with other clients. He is very knowledgeable, with excellent legal analysis and strategy. He has been in Dubai for more than 15 years, and so knows the nuances of arbitration and dispute resolution in the UAE very well. He has achieved great results for us, both in high value arbitrations and in settling at an early stage.’
Key clients
- Fatima Fertilisers Limited
- The Fatima Group
- BPGIC Holdings Limited
- Willis Towers Watson
Lawyers

Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Jonathan Sutcliffe, Nazanin Aleyaseen