The new BVI International Arbitration will have a roster of more than 200 arbitration and dispute resolution practitioners who can conduct arbitrations in English, Spanish, Russian, Chinese and a variety of other languages. It will administer arbitrations under its own rules as well as self-administered ‘ad-hoc’ arbitrations. Financial administration services, logistical and technical support for meetings and hearings, management of travel arrangements and general secretarial and linguistic support will all also be on offer at the BVI facility. Former Linklaters partner and practice manager Francois Lassalle has been tapped as its inaugural chief executive.

Grounded in English law

English law will form the foundation of proceedings at the BVI centre – a move that City of London Law Society chair Edward Sparrow believes will be a boost for City-based arbitration lawyers: ‘Many international arbitration centres, including the BVI, have systems based on English law, which is one of our most successful exports. Accordingly, parties turn to legal professionals trained in English law from City of London firms for expert advice and representation in international arbitration.’

Sources: Law Gazette; Law360; Daily Business Review