“We embarked on a global expansion of our international arbitration practice two years ago, determined to make strategic hires in key markets. With his experience, talent and drive, J.P. is a fantastic addition to our practice, which has just been named to the GAR 30 list of the world’s leading arbitration law firms,” said José Astigarraga, the leader of Reed Smith’s International Arbitration practice.
Astigarraga notes that as part of the expansion, the firm has added key arbitration lawyers in Paris, Dubai, Singapore, Miami and other leading arbitral venues, and is continuing to look for the right talent.
“The buildup of our international arbitration practice across our global footprint is an important part of the firm’s overall strategy to further strengthen its position as a global disputes leader, in both litigation and arbitration. As part of that strategy, we have now consolidated the commercial disputes practice in the US and Europe, Middle East and Asian offices, which will assist us in better serving the cross-border disputes needs our clients are facing,” said Peter Hardy, co-chair of the Global Commercial Disputes Group.
Duffy has broad experience across several strategic industries including life sciences, aerospace and defense, franchising, energy and technology. Given Reed Smith’s industry focus, Duffy’s experience in life science arbitrations will better position the firm to serve its clients in an important, strategic manner. “Life sciences is one the firm’s five key industry group focuses. Our clients are heavy users of international arbitration, and with JP’s knowledge and reputation in this sector, this is proverbial win-win,” said Melissa Geist, co-chair of the Reed Smith Life Science Health Industry Group.
“Reed Smith’s leading life sciences practice, which is a particular focus of my practice, and its strong offices not only in the U.S., but London, Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong, syncs up perfectly with my practice’s geographic footprint,” said Duffy.
Duffy has represented clients in international arbitrations under the ICC, AAA/ICDR, LCIA, HKIAC, SIAC, DIAC, JAMS, GAFTA, ISCID and UNCITRAL rules in the U.S., Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America, as well as arbitration-related litigation before U.S. state and federal courts. He is dual-qualified in New York and England & Wales and previously practiced as a foreign legal consultant in Dubai. He is currently editing an upcoming treatise on International Arbitration and India. Duffy earned his J.D., cum laude, from St. John’s University School of Law and his B.A. from Colgate University.
Cindy Minniti, managing partner of the New York office, added, however, “With the addition of J.P., we are advancing our strategic focus to build our office in New York with a global reach. Duffy’s arrival follows the recent addition in New York of leading practitioners with cross border practices so we are delighted by how our efforts are playing out.”
Reed Smith’s International Arbitration practice advises clients across a wide range of industry sectors in more than 100 countries around the world, including Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America and Latin America. Serving as advisers, advocates and arbitrators in key arbitral centers worldwide, our attorneys represent both claimants and respondents and are experienced with the procedures of all major international arbitration institutions.
About Reed Smith
Reed Smith is a dynamic international law firm, dedicated to helping clients move their businesses forward. Its long-standing relationships, international outlook, and collaborative structure make it a go-to partner for speedy resolution of complex disputes, transactions, and regulatory matters.
For further information, please visit reedsmith.com.
