Herbert Smith Freehills LLP has announced the appointment of partner Justin D’Agostino as global head of dispute resolution.

Justin (pictured left) is a high-profile disputes partner, having spent his entire legal career with the firm. He has worked in London, Singapore, Bangkok and, most recently, Hong Kong from where he has helped to build the leading international arbitration practice in Asia and is regularly singled out by clients, peers and the legal directories as a leader in his field. 

As global head of practice, Justin will continue to be based in Hong Kong. He will also continue to be involved with clients and in winning work, which will allow him to maintain his contacts and market-leading practice. HSF is a global player and positioning its new global disputes head in Asia is an important step in connecting the practice across the world.

Justin will be supported in the management of the practice by the regional heads: Geoff McClellan (who will continue as global deputy and as regional head of disputes for Australia), Mark Shillito (UK/US) and Peter Godwin (Asia), with whom he will work closely.

Outgoing head of HSF’s global disputes practice and joint CEO-elect Sonya Leydecker said: ‘I am delighted by Justin’s appointment to this important role in the firm. Justin hails from our incredibly strong bench of disputes partners and has an impressive track record of achievement in both legal practice and management. He possesses exceptional energy, drive and commitment and has a clear vision for the disputes practice globally.

‘With Justin at the helm, supported by the strong team of regional heads of practice in Australia, the UK/US and in Asia, as well as our practice area leaders including Tim Parkes in his new role [partner, dispute resolution], our successful global disputes business is perfectly placed for the next stage of development.’ 

Justin D’Agostino commented: ‘It is a huge honour to have been appointed global head of practice. I am both very grateful for and tremendously excited by the opportunities ahead. Herbert Smith Freehills’ global disputes practice occupies an outstanding market position and we continue to set the benchmark for brand, reputation and success in the main places in which we operate.’

Topics