Public International Law

Public international law disputes are multi-faceted and complex; the law firm selected to handle such disputes must possess the technical and logistical resources and deep knowledge of international law required to manage, prosecute, and defend such matters.

Covington has for many years been one of the world’s leading law firms in the area of public international law, and our lawyers are well-versed in advising sovereign states, international organizations, and other entities on questions involving customary international law and treaty matters. The firm also has a long record of successful oral advocacy, both in international litigation and arbitration.

Broad Range of Experience

Covington represents clients before numerous international courts and tribunals, including the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), and the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA). In recent years, Covington has won significant decisions from the ICJ, ITLOS, and other leading international tribunals. The firm currently represents Ukraine in several landmark proceedings before the ICJ adverse to the Russian Federation.

Exceptional Practice Depth

Covington’s international disputes practice comprises more than 50 lawyers handling cases before international courts and under international arbitration rules around the globe. Our lawyers are trained in civil and common law traditions and can draw upon government experience as diplomats, lawyers, and treaty negotiators. The firm’s interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to complex legal issues provides us with a unique perspective we use to the advantage of our clients, as we can look at all sides of an issue and execute a cohesive, comprehensive legal strategy. Our ability to provide this type of full-scope review sets us apart from the practices of many other leading firms in this field.