We handle arbitration and mediation matters, both in Nigeria and in abroad, whether between commercial adversaries or by investors against states. We also conduct court proceedings relating to arbitration, including court applications to uphold arbitration agreements or to set awards aside. 

 

We have acted as lead counsel, as co-counsel in support of Nigerian and foreign law firms, as arbitrators, as expert witnesses and as registrars to arbitrators. In arbitration and mediation, we adopt the same approach we use in litigation: imagination, thoroughness, speed, flexibility and clarity from the start as to goals and strategy.

 

The following are the roles we play in alternative dispute resolution:

 

·       We help parties in the dispute to communicate, identify areas of agreement, and resolve dispute in a collaborative manner.

 

·       We maintain impartiality and facilitate a process where all parties in the dispute have a chance to present their perspective.

 

·       We assist in drafting arbitration and mediation agreements, ensuring they are enforceable and that they contain essential element for legally binding agreements.

 

·       We represent and participate in pre-mediation (preparing parties and documents), guiding and negotiating during mediation, and also in post-mediation by ensuring that agreements reached during mediation are executed.

 

·       We are often appointed as arbitrator, hearing evidence, making legal representation, and rendering binding decisions in disputes.

 

·       We represent parties in arbitration proceedings, presenting evidence, arguing cases, and ensuring that our clients’ interests are protected.

 

·       We act as conciliators by guiding parties in disputes in finding compromises, directing the negotiation process and generating potential solutions.

 

·       We provide expert appraisal by giving expert opinions on legal areas and providing legal assessments of the potential outcome of a case or the value of assets in dispute.

 

·       We participate in resolving customer disputes, often by mediating between customers and businesses.