Should English Law Disputes Only Be Decided by English Lawyers?

This lively debate will tackle the provocative question: should English law disputes be determined only by English-qualified lawyers?

Our panel will explore:

• Party autonomy and the fundamentals of arbitration.
• Whether arbitrators need to be qualified in the governing law.
• Lessons from recent case law (including s.69 challenges).
• The cultural clash between litigation and arbitration.

With barristers arguing both sides of the motion and commentary from experienced arbitrators and prominent arbitration lawyers, the event will deliver sharp insights, memorable advocacy, and practical takeaways for practitioners.

Speakers:

• Ali Malek KC, 3VB – Chair
• Georges Affaki, Chartered Arbitrator, and Justice of the Qatar International Court, AFFAKI
• Isabelle Michou, Partner, Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan
• Rajesh Pillai KC, Barrister, 3VB
• Miriam Schmelzer, Barrister, 3VB