Squire Patton Boggs Mourns the Loss of International Arbitration Partner John Adam
John Adam, renowned International Arbitration Partner at Squire Patton Boggs, Passes Away at 48. John Adam, a highly respected international arbitration partner at Squire Patton Boggs, passed away suddenly at the age of 48. Based in Paris, Adam was renowned for his expertise in handling complex disputes in Latin America, particularly investment disputes under the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) rules. His untimely death leaves a significant void in the legal community.
A Leader in International Arbitration
Squire Patton Boggs is well-known for its strong international dispute resolution practice, regularly entrusted by state entities to manage high-stakes investment disputes. The Paris office, where Adam was based, frequently collaborates with the firm’s U.S. and other international offices to represent Latin American states in major construction, mining, and oil and gas arbitration cases. Additionally, the team handles strategic disputes in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, encompassing industries like construction, real estate, media, and manufacturing.
Squire Patton Boggs’ International Dispute Resolution (IDR) Practice has been expanding rapidly, with over 140 practitioners across 20 countries. Adam joined the firm from Latham & Watkins during a period of significant growth, contributing to the firm’s global arbitration powerhouse status. His addition marked a key moment for the Paris office as it continued to strengthen its international disputes offering.
An Expert in Latin American Arbitration
John Adam was widely regarded as a leading expert in international arbitration, particularly in Latin America. He represented companies, states, and state-owned entities in over 75 complex commercial and investor-state disputes, often focusing on energy, oil and gas, renewables, and construction disputes. His deep knowledge of bilateral and multilateral investment treaties made him a sought-after advisor for clients across multiple industries.
Fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, Adam was dually trained in both common and civil law, a rare skillset that allowed him to navigate disputes across diverse jurisdictions. His ability to advocate in multiple languages further set him apart as a consummate professional in the field.
A Visionary Appointment
Adam’s arrival at Squire Patton Boggs was welcomed by global leaders in the firm’s IDR Practice. Stephen Anway, global co-leader of the practice, praised Adam as a “highly respected arbitration specialist” whose extensive knowledge and connections in key jurisdictions would further strengthen the firm’s global market-leading team. Adam’s focus on Latin American arbitration was particularly synergistic with Squire Patton Boggs’ existing work, adding to the firm’s robust portfolio of investment, energy, and construction arbitration cases.
Adam himself expressed excitement about joining the firm, noting that Squire Patton Boggs’ ambitious vision and strong international arbitration practice aligned perfectly with his own expertise. “I am thrilled to join such a talented team,” Adam said, adding that he looked forward to contributing to the firm’s continued success in handling some of the largest and most complex arbitrations in the world.
A Lasting Legacy
As Squire Patton Boggs continues to expand its IDR Practice, John Adam’s contributions and leadership will not be forgotten. His sudden passing has left a profound impact on the firm and the global legal community. Colleagues and clients alike remember him as a dedicated, brilliant attorney with a deep commitment to justice and international arbitration.
Carole Sportes, IDR partner and head of the firm’s Paris office, expressed deep sadness at the loss of her colleague. “John’s knowledge and expertise were invaluable. He was a highly respected member of our team, and he will be greatly missed,” she said.
With Adam’s passing, the firm and the international legal community mourn the loss of a highly skilled and respected arbitration practitioner who made an indelible mark on the field of international dispute resolution.
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