Vinson & Elkins Grows International Arbitration Practice with James Barratt in London

Vinson & Elkins said it hired James Barratt as Co-Head of International Disputes – Europe, alongside existing partner Louise Woods.

Barratt brings over 20 years of experience in international commercial arbitration, public international law, investment arbitration alongside English court proceedings, the lawfirm said in a statement.

His practice is focused on disputes in the energy sector, notably those involving natural gas and LNG, but he has conducted substantial arbitrations across various other sectors, including life sciences, private equity, aviation, defense, technology, and telecommunications, it said.

“James is highly esteemed in the global arbitration field and is well-known for effectively addressing clients’ dispute resolution requirements in an increasingly complex regulatory landscape,” said Nick Henchie, managing partner of the Vinson & Elkins London office. “As we continue to expand our London office and to grow our cross-office disputes capabilities, he will be a great fit.”