Arnold & Porter LLP has one of the largest and most experienced international arbitration groups worldwide. We represent clients in arbitration proceedings and before different arbitral fora throughout the world. We also assist clients with informal and institutional dispute settlement proceedings, and advise them on drafting arbitral clauses in the context of contract negotiations.
Arnold & Porter attorneys regularly serve as advocates, advisors, and arbitrators in disputes between sovereign governments and private investors, including disputes arising out of concession agreements and other state contracts or under the terms of bilateral investment treaties and other international agreements. We also participate actively in commercial arbitrations derived from international transactions. These arbitrations involve a range of industries and economic sectors. Arnold & Porter has substantial experience in arbitrating disputes involving the energy, telecommunications and government concessions areas, among others. In addition, Arnold & Porter assists clients in the enforcement of arbitral awards and in execution proceedings for clients in the United States and abroad.
The practice has been repeatedly singled out for praise. According to The Legal 500 2008, "the 'outstanding' Arnold & Porter is recognized by clients for its experience and knowledge in investor-State arbitrations," including disputes under investment treaties and free trade agreements before the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) and under the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) rules. "The team has an impressive ICSID showing," says Chambers USA 2008, a leading independent publisher of law firm rankings. Chambers USA 2008 continues, "Clients choose the firm for the 'focused and efficient' approach of its members, applauding their 'modesty and lack of self-importance'." The Legal 500 US 2008 and 2009 editions describe the practice as a "very good, highly committed, and very motivated team of lawyers" who "often achieve[] complete victories," adding that "the firm's prestige makes who to use an easy decision." Global Arbitration Review's 2009 "GAR 100 Firms" confirms the group's "record of success." Chambers Global 2010 describes it as "proactive on every little detail... It ends up making you feel like more than just a client-it makes it seem like a personal relationship."
In recent years our lawyers have represented the governments of Chile, Argentina, Venezuela, Ecuador, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Panamá, and El Salvador, as well as the government of Hungary. We have also represented claimant companies in ICSID arbitrations, such as, most recently, cases involving French and Chilean investors.
In addition, the firm's attorneys have served as Chair or members of bar committees on international arbitration; as organizers, moderators, or speakers at international arbitration conferences and seminars; as authors of articles and publications on various arbitration subjects; and as members of Task Forces organized to consider reforms in the arbitral rules or procedures of leading institutions. Our attorneys have also taught courses on international arbitration at leading US law schools.