Pinsent Masons Welcomes Shanelle Irani as Partner in Dubai
Renowned international law firm Pinsent Masons has announced the appointment of Shanelle Irani as a Partner within their International Arbitration team based in Dubai. Irani, a seasoned legal expert, graduated from Government Law College, Mumbai in 2012 and later earned her LLM from Georgetown Law in 2016. Her professional qualifications include admissions to practice in India, New York, and England & Wales, showcasing a diverse legal acumen.
Irani brings to the table a wealth of experience in managing complex commercial disputes across multiple jurisdictions. Her expertise spans key sectors such as energy and natural resources, financial services, defense and security, construction, and life sciences. Irani is notably adept in handling disputes connected to India, leveraging her deep understanding of the region’s legal frameworks.
Throughout her career, Irani has held significant roles at top international law firms and has worked across various jurisdictions, including the Middle East. Her track record includes representing clients in high-stakes disputes valued at over US$1 billion. She has participated in arbitrations held in major global arbitration centers, governed by laws from Europe, Asia, and the United States.
Prior to joining Pinsent Masons, Irani served as Counsel at WilmerHale in London. Her transition to Pinsent Masons marks a strategic move as the firm seeks to enhance its capabilities in international arbitration.
Comments from Leadership
Damian Crosse, the Head of Litigation and Compliance in the Middle East at Pinsent Masons, expressed enthusiasm about Irani’s appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Shanelle to our partnership. The international arbitration market in the Middle East is evolving rapidly, and our clients demand advisors who can expertly navigate high-stakes, cross-border disputes. Shanelle’s exceptional technical skills, coupled with her comprehensive sector knowledge and proven track record, make her an invaluable asset to our team,” Crosse stated.
Irani also shared her thoughts on joining Pinsent Masons during this pivotal time. “The Middle East is transforming into a global hub for dispute resolution, attracting significant investment and top-tier talent. Businesses operating here need advisors who not only possess deep subject matter expertise but also understand the local landscape. I am eager to return to Dubai and enhance Pinsent Masons’ arbitration offerings in the region,” she commented.
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