Duncan Gorst specialises in international arbitration with a focus on disputes in manufacturing and engineering supply chains.

Duncan represents clients in international arbitration proceedings under the arbitration rules of, among others, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the German Arbitration Institute (DIS) and the Swiss Arbitration Centre (SAC), as well as ad hoc proceedings under the UNCITRAL Rules and national arbitration legislation. He also advises on drafting and revising arbitration clauses.

His recent experience includes representing clients in the offshore wind, marine engineering, rail, aerospace and defence, and life sciences industries in supply chain disputes involving payment and quality issues.

Duncan was recognised in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Germany™ in 2023 and 2024 for International Arbitration.

Duncan is qualified in both England and Wales (Solicitor Advocate) and New York and has degrees in both English and German law. Duncan speaks and publishes regularly on international arbitration and supply chain topics.

Duncan also has an active pro bono practice advising NGOs on international law issues, in particular human rights protection.

Helping you succeed in tomorrow's world

Conducting an arbitration is a combination of effective project management, strategic advice, and persuasive advocacy. I work with my clients in a structured and efficient way from the outset to build the strongest possible case by both understanding the specific dispute beyond the legal issues and aligning on the best means of resolution. 

Submarine cable manufacturer

Acting for a manufacturer of submarine power cables in a DIS arbitration seated in Germany under German law concerning withheld payments and the quality of manufactured products.

Steel structures fabricator

Acting for a fabricator of steel structures in a Swiss Arbitration Centre arbitration seated in Switzerland under German law concerning withheld payments and the quality of manufactured products.

Manufacturer of automotive components

Acting for a manufacturer of automotive components in an ICC arbitration seated in Germany under Czech law concerning the quality of manufactured products.

Marine technology manufacturer

Acting for a marine engineering company in an ICC arbitration seated in England under English law concerning the quality of provided services.

Medical devices manufacturer

Acting for a manufacturer of medical devices in several ICC arbitrations seated in Switzerland and New York under Swiss and New York law concerning delayed payments for provided services.

Rolling stock leasing company

Acting for a rolling stock leasing company in a DIS arbitration seated in Switzerland under German law concerning delayed payments.

Multinational aerospace and defence company

Acting for an aerospace and defence company in a DIS arbitration concerning the quality of hardware and software components for a border security project.

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