Duncan Watson KC

Duncan is the managing partner of our new Singapore office. Duncan specialises in international arbitration, and relocated from our Hong Kong office, where he spent many years as a leader of our Asian arbitration practice. Who’s Who Legal (2021) listed him as one of the nine “most highly regarded” young arbitration partners in the Asia Pacific and quoted peers who described as “an exceptional adviser and advocate” and “certainly among the very best of his generation”. Duncan was appointed King’s Counsel (England & Wales) in March 2021 at the age of 37.

Duncan has acted as counsel in international commercial and investment treaty arbitrations under most arbitral institutions and rules, including the SIAC, HKIAC, ICC, UNCITRAL, ICSID, LCIA, ICDR, SCC, CAA, and Swiss Chambers.

Duncan has acted for clients based all over the world. He represents clients in a broad array of industries, including private equity and financial services, energy and resources, manufacturing, infrastructure, and intellectual property.

In 2023, Chambers & Partners noted Duncan “has a keen mind and always attends to details. [He] is a gifted advocate who lets no stone go unturned but never loses his cool”. In 2024 it said that “He is a master in cross-examination … He is absolutely incredible.” In 2022 it said “Duncan is a real master in quantum, excellent in cross-examination, and an expert in damages calculations. He has a lot of case work – a great guy who is a good advocate as well.”

Duncan also sits as arbitrator, including in SIAC, HKIAC and ICC matters. He also regularly publishes and lectures on topical issues in commercial and investment treaty arbitration around the region, including advocacy.