Looking back at the Year of the Rat: The top 5 Construction Cases from Around the World

Andrew Goddard QC.  Andrew specialises in international arbitration, particularly in the context of commercial disputes concerning major infrastructure and energy contracts, and IT projects. Andrew is “a creative thinker” and “very analytical” (Chambers and Partners), he is strategic in his approach to the prosecution and resolution of disputes.  "He's one of the best silks at the construction Bar," clients comment to Chambers and Partners Asia-Pacific; "he's extraordinarily intelligent, he really rolls his sleeves up to get into the detail, and the degree to which he has specialised knowledge of construction disputes is a real strength."  Andrew seeks to enhance the arbitral process by increased party collaboration, where sensible to do so, and early identification of the real issues, thereby improving efficiency and, crucially, his client’s outcomes. He has acted as counsel in numerous disputes arbitrated under the auspices of HKIAC, ICC, LCIA, LMAA and, in respect of Investor-State disputes, ICSID. Andrew also regularly acts as arbitrator in infrastructure-related disputes.

Samar Abbas Kazmi.  Samar specialises in commercial, construction and technology disputes. He  has particular expertise in technically complex matters concerning large developments and infrastructure projects, energy and cross-border litigation. As an advocate, he has experience of handling disputes arising from joint ventures, long-term commercial relationships and infrastructure projects. Spotlighted in Chambers Asia-Pacific (International Arbitration – The Bar) he is described as “a formidable junior, a must-watch-out-for and soon-to-be star in this region” an assessment echoed by several interviewees, who also pay tribute to his work ethic and "incredibly strong work product." The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific notes that Samar is “effective, efficient, and well-prepared, like a well-oiled machine.”

Lauren Adams.  Lauren specialises in construction, engineering, energy, information technology and professional negligence. Her practice involves advising on large complex projects, such as transport infrastructure, building developments (housing, retail and commercial), and energy and renewable resources (solar parks, FPSOs refurbishments). Lauren’s practice concerns arbitrations conducted under the HKIAC, ICC, LCIA and DIAC rules, and she provides non-contentious advice on prospective construction contracts.  Recommended in The Legal 500 clients praise her “great attention to detail” and for “excellent working with expert witnesses in highly technical disciplines”, commenting “Lauren is the best junior I have ever worked with. She combines the insight of a wise head on young shoulders with incredible productivity.”