Withers expands US arbitration practice with New York partner Floriane Lavaud

International law firm Withers welcomes Floriane Lavaud as a Senior Equity Partner in its New York office. Floriane joins the firm from Debevoise & Plimpton.

With nearly 20 years of experience, Floriane’s practice focuses on international arbitration and public international law, as well as cross-border litigation, with a particular focus on the Middle East. She has represented sovereign states, state-owned entities, and multinational corporations in connection with several high-profile matters in a variety of jurisdictions, including before the International Court of Justice. She also advises sovereign wealth funds, private equity funds and hedge funds, including in relation to investments in the Middle East.

Peter Wood, CEO of Withers' Dispute Resolution division comments: "Building a strong, capable disputes team in the US has been an important part of the firm's strategy, and Floriane's arrival tops several years of consistent growth and investment in the strength of the group. Floriane's experience in international arbitration and public international law will complement and expand upon our existing competencies."

Hussein Haeri KC, co-head of the firm's international arbitration and head of the public international law practice, adds: "Floriane has a first-rate reputation in international arbitration and public international law, and I very much look forward to working with her on growing our practice around the world, including in the Middle East."

Floriane adds: "It is a privilege to join Withers' international arbitration and public international law practice, which has grown to an immensely talented and robust team around the world. I look forward to working with my new colleagues to contribute to the success of the firm."

In recognition for her dispute resolution experience, Chambers Global has commended Floriane's “strong knowledge of public international law, in addition to being very practical and strategic in responding to her clients’ needs.” Floriane is also recommended by Chambers USA, where she has been described as “an incredible lawyer” who has “precision, dynamism and passion for her work that inspires the trust and appreciation of her clients.” She is also recognized as a “Thought Leader” by Who’s Who’s Legal, as well as a “Rising Star” by The Legal 500 US and by the Euro Money Legal Media Group.

Floriane is admitted to the New York and Paris Bars, in addition to being a solicitor in England & Wales. Floriane serves in a number of leadership positions, including as a Board Member and Co-Chair of the International Arbitration Committee of the American branch of the International Law Association and as a Board Member of ArbitralWomen, an international organization that promotes women and diversity in international arbitration.