Chambers Europe 2008 recently singled the firm’s International Arbitration Practice Group out for exceptional rankings.
Gary Born, the Group’s Chair, was selected as a “star performer” in the areas of both Dispute Resolution: International Arbitration Europe-wide, where he is listed as only one of three star performers in Europe, and in the UK, where he is the sole star performer. Mr. Born was also listed among the “Most in Demand Arbitrators”—a list of only 35 of the top arbitrators throughout Europe.
Mr. Born is accompanied in the rankings by three of his practitioners listed as among the best in the field as well: Steven Finizio and Franz Schwarz. Chambers’ editorial noted:
“‘Only after you’ve seen Gary Born in action will you understand why he has the reputation he does.’ Renowned as both arbitrator and counsel, Born has been involved in over 400 international arbitrations and has ‘an innate ability to cut to the chase and home in on the awkward points and questions that everyone else might have missed.’
The ‘calm and measured’ Steve Finizio has ‘developed into a significant player’ who has ‘a natural, eloquent style of advocacy, which allows him to persuade by force of reason alone.’
New partner and Austrian lawyer Franz Schwarz is ‘possessed of a razor-sharp written style and shows no mercy in exposing the other side’s weaknesses.’ Having already made an impression on the written and speaking circuit, this rising star’s civil law background offers an ‘extra dimension’ to the team.
On top of the individual recognitions, the firm’s International Arbitration Group also ranked in the first tier in the UK for Dispute Resolution: International Arbitration, and in the second tier Europe-wide for this same category. Chambers notes that “London is the centre of operations for an ‘outstanding team’ which comprises an impressive cross-section of nationalities and legal qualifications. A strong culture of international advocacy combined with a ‘quality of associates that is second-to-none’ ensures that this firm is ‘fully deserving of top-tier status .’”
Chambers bases its rankings on market research that helps determine the level of client service, commercial awareness, technical legal ability, professional conduct, commitment, and diligence as well as additional qualities in which clients view as valuable.
Chambers Europe’s research covers all major jurisdictions throughout Europe. The leading international law firms and leading individuals are ranked in the primary areas of law in each country. To learn more please visit chambersandpartners.com.