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International Arbitration

We help clients secure successful outcomes in their most significant and complex international arbitrations; disputes that carry material financial exposure, commercial sensitivity, and strategic importance. We focus on what matters: resolving complex disputes in a way that protects value and supports long term objectives.

Consistently ranked in Global Arbitration Review’s GAR 30, CMS is one of the most active global international arbitration firms in the energy, banking and finance, engineering, life sciences, and insurance sectors. Our clients look to us for the right technical and industry expertise across jurisdictions to drive cases forward with clarity and control.

From structuring arbitration clauses to running complex hearings and enforcing awards globally, we support clients at every stage of the process. Our team combines first rate advocacy with deep sector insight and seamless cross border execution. We have a significant track record under all major rules, (LCIA, ICC, HKIAC, SIAC, CIETAC, LMAA, UNCITRAL, AAA), and expertise in investor state dispute settlement processes, focussing on the conduct of arbitration cases before specialist tribunals and advising on investment protection strategies.

Further reading

Awards & Recognitions
01
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    "#1 busiest firm in the GAR30 rankings"
    Global Arbitration Review, 2026
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    "CMS has built a truly distinguished international arbitration practice, combining legal excellence with deep sectoral knowledge and global reach."
    Legal 500, 2026
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    "The team is highly skilled in managing complex, high-value disputes across multiple jurisdictions, with particular strength in energy, infrastructure and investment treaty matters."
    Legal 500, 2026
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    "Their approach is strategic, detail oriented and commercially aware, with a clear focus on achieving effective outcomes for clients. CMS stands out not only for the quality of its advocacy and procedural expertise, but also for its ability to provide clear, pragmatic advice on structuring investments, managing risks and enforcing arbitral awards."
    Legal 500, 2026
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    "It is a pleasure to work with a team of such calibre and international fluency."
    Legal 500, 2026
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    "Their insight, professionalism and strategic thinking have consistently added value."
    Chambers, 2026
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    "They strike the right balance between offering commercially relevant legal advice and giving us the space to exercise our own expertise, which makes them a particularly effective partner."
    Chambers, 2026
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    "They have proven their ability to work across jurisdictions with ease."
    Chambers, 2026
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    "CMS has a very good understanding of the needs of the client."
    Chambers, 2026
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    "CMS is strategic, innovative and great to work with."
    Chambers, 2026

Explore more

CMS Disputes 101 Annual Webinar Series 2026

CMS Disputes 101 Annual Webinar Series 2026

08 Sep 2026 - 01 Dec 2026
English Court of Appeal clarifies the limits of state immunity in the enforcement of investment treaty awards under the New York Convention

English Court of Appeal clarifies the limits of state immunity in the enforcement of investment treaty awards under the New York Convention

31 Jul 2026 10 min read
Challenging an Arbitral Award? The English Commercial Court’s latest reminder on timing

Challenging an Arbitral Award? The English Commercial Court’s latest reminder on timing

02 Jul 2026 9 min read
A Banking Day by any other name (would still end at midnight): Commercial Court clarifies contractual payment deadlines

A Banking Day by any other name (would still end at midnight): Commercial Court clarifies contractual payment deadlines

02 Jul 2026 9 min read
Oil & Gas: Forfeiture, Settlement and Government Consent

Oil & Gas: Forfeiture, Settlement and Government Consent

17 Jun 2026 14 min read
ICC Rules 2026: Key Reforms in Context

ICC Rules 2026: Key Reforms in Context

09 Jun 2026 11 min read
ICC Arbitration Rules 2026 – The Key Changes at a Glance

ICC Arbitration Rules 2026 – The Key Changes at a Glance

29 May 2026 11 min read
CMS strengthens international arbitration practice with partner hire

CMS strengthens international arbitration practice with partner hire

29 May 2026 3 min read

Events

  • 08 Sep 2026 - 01 Dec 2026

    CMS Disputes 101 Annual Webinar Series 2026

Local market knowledge. Global outlook

We provide future-facing legal advice to help your organisation thrive. Combining local market knowledge and a global perspective, and with lawyers in locations worldwide, your organisation benefits from the expertise it needs, even across borders.

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