Department profile
Ashurst Perkins Coie – London, New York, Seattle, Sydney

International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration

UK Guide 2026 : UK-wide


Ashurst Perkins Coie – London, New York, Seattle, Sydney

Rankings

About

Provided by Ashurst Perkins Coie – London, New York, Seattle, Sydney

International arbitration is the default mechanism for resolving international commercial disputes. Ashurst Perkins Coie's international arbitration specialists focus on providing tailored solutions for our clients in choosing appropriate arbitration processes and representing them in arbitration proceedings. Our global team comprises common and civil law lawyers across multiple jurisdictions – we operate as a single integrated global team.

We appear as advocates in cases seated in all the major arbitral seats globally. Our experience encompasses all major international arbitration institutions and rules, we also frequently act on ad hoc arbitrations.

As well as advising and representing commercial parties we also act for state parties and provide strategic and legal advice on public international law issues and investment arbitration matters, including ICSID arbitration.

The team's experience reflects the full breadth of industry sectors in which the firm's clients operate, with a particular focus upon the energy, resources and infrastructure sectors.

Senior members of the group sit as arbitrators which experience enables us to provide our clients with close insight into how arbitral tribunals operate and how to present cases to them most effectively. Our specialists publish regularly on developments in international arbitration. We also provide bespoke client training on arbitration and international law issues. 

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration - UK-wide

Band 4

Band 4


What the Team is Known For

Ashurst Perkins Coie is well known for its considerable expertise in energy and infrastructure disputes. The firm regularly handles high-value and multi-jurisdictional disputes for market leaders in the extractive industries. It is also active advising clients from the LNG and infrastructure sectors. The team is experienced in ad hoc and institutional arbitrations, including those conducted under ICC, UNCITRAL, LCIA and SIAC rules. It is also adept at handling significant breach of contract claims.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • They are smart; they spot the key issues easily and always have a sensible solution to the different challenges.

    International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
  • Ashurst Perkins Coie knows the issues that arise in the industry and business, coupled with real bench strength in international arbitration.

    International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
  • They’re smart, practical and easy to work with, which makes them a great choice for handling tough, high-value arbitration cases.

    International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
  • The Ashurst Perkins Coie arbitration team is client-focused, and the quality of their services is high.

    International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 4Matthew Saunders
    Band 4Matthew Saunders

    Matthew Saunders

    Matthew Saunders is a partner in the global international arbitration practice and is widely recognised for his expertise in the energy sector. He has acted under various arbitral rules and in arbitration seated across Hong Kong, London and Paris.

    • Matthew's skills before arbitration tribunals and in cross-examining witnesses are superior.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • Matthew is very commercial and clear in his delivery of information.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • Matthew is a smart and eloquent lawyer.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
  • Band 4Philip Chong
    Band 4Philip Chong

    Philip Chong

    Philip Chong handles big-ticket, multi-jurisdictional oil and gas disputes. He is well versed in acting under the rules of various arbitral institutions, including the SCC and LCIA.

    • Philip has a wealth of experience.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • Philip has the capacity to analyse very complex facts and get quickly to the root of complex legal and factual issues.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • Philip is analytical, smart and turns every stone. He is kind and a team player.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • Philip is strategically and tactically sound.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
  • Up and ComingEmma Johnson
    Up and ComingEmma Johnson

    Emma Johnson

    Emma Johnson has a burgeoning arbitration practice, demonstrating particular expertise in disputes relating to the energy and renewables sectors. She has notable experience acting under ICC and ICSID rules.
    • Emma is very smart and extremely hard-working.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • She is fastidious in her attention to detail and a pleasure to deal with.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • Emma is very good to work with, and her communication is really strong.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK
    • Emma is an excellent lawyer with deep expertise in commercial arbitration matters in the energy space.

      International Arbitration: Commercial Arbitration respondentUK

Ranked Individuals at Ashurst Perkins Coie – London, New York, Seattle, Sydney (3)

UK-wide

Members

Provided by Ashurst Perkins Coie – London, New York, Seattle, Sydney

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