Sophie J. Freelove

Senior Associate

International Dispute Resolution & Arbitration

Sophie J. Freelove

Overview

Sophie is a senior associate in the International Dispute Resolution & Arbitration practice group. Her practice focuses on advising clients on a range of international arbitration matters, including both commercial and investment arbitration, with a particular focus on the energy and construction sectors.

The following is a list of representative matters in which Sophie has assisted.

Experience Highlights

  • Acting for a Chinese-owned exploration and production company in an ICC arbitration relating to a non-operated interest in West Africa

  • Acting for a Mauritian investor in bilateral investment treaty claims against India, in relation to the cancellation of telecoms licences

  • Acting on an ICC arbitration in connection with the design and construction of major maritime project in Central America

  • Representing a major Saudi Arabian contractor in ICC proceedings in relation to the construction of a gas-fired combined heat and power plant

  • Advising a European energy contractor in relation to possible disputes under an EPC contract for the construction of an energy project in South-East Asia

  • Representing a European oil and gas contractor in an ICC claim over  the cancellation of a major offshore pipeline project 

  • Representing a State-owned oil and gas company in an ICC arbitration in connection with alleged breaches and termination of a production sharing agreement 

  • Acted for a Lithuanian company, UAB E energija, in ICSID Annulment proceedings against the Republic of Latvia. The dispute related to the cancellation of a concession for a centralised heating facility in Latvia

  • Advising a global contractor in an ICC arbitration regarding a major infrastructure project in Saudi Arabia

  • Acting for an international petroleum company in relation to the breach of a shareholders’ agreement and the unlawful transfer of assets 

  • Represented a Middle-East based company in an LCIA arbitration concerning the termination of a pilot project for the development of a heavy oil field 

Capabilities

Credentials

Education

  • University of Durham, BA French and Philosophy (with honors), 2012
  • BPP, Graduate Diploma in Law, 2013
  • University of Law (MSc), Law, Business and Management, 2016

Admissions

  • England & Wales, 2018
Insights

Client Alerts

2026 Energy Disputes Outlook: Key Energy Arbitration and Litigation Trends from Vinson & Elkins

Overview Vinson & Elkins’ International Dispute Resolution & Arbitration team examines 10 trends involving liquefied natural gas (LNG), climate change, renewable …

January 14, 2026 • Vinson & Elkins’ International Dispute Resolution & Arbitration team examines 10 trends involving  liquefied natural gas (LNG), climate change, renewable energy projects, grid modernisation, power purchase agreements, and more.

January 14, 2026 • 2-minute read

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Client Alerts

The Stabroek JOA Arbitration: Is It Time to Revisit JOA Change in Control Provisions?

Chevron Corporation’s (“Chevron”) high-profile $53 billion merger with Hess Corporation (“Hess”) has now closed, having recently garnered significant attention, both for its scale and the related arbitration that could have derailed it.

August 1, 2025 • V&E International Dispute Resolution Update

August 1, 2025 • 4-minute read

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Client Alerts

Energy Disputes: Navigating Key Trends and Challenges

The global energy sector continues to be shaped by geopolitical shifts, regulatory changes, and the ongoing energy transition. As industries and governments navigate decarbonisation, energy security, and evolving investment landscapes, disputes are becoming more frequent and complex.

February 18, 2025

February 18, 2025 • 1-minute read

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Client Alerts

What Are States’ Legal Obligations In Relation To Climate Change?

The International Court of Justice has been asked to issue an advisory opinion on this question, and is currently hearing submissions from States, NGOs and international organisations.

December 11, 2024

December 11, 2024 • 3-minute read

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Client Alerts

A(nother) Turning Point for Intra-EU ECT Disputes?

Two ICSID tribunals have recently upheld Spain’s intra-European Union (EU) jurisdictional objections in two arbitrations pursuant to the Energy Charter Treaty (“ECT”).

October 29, 2024 • V&E International Dispute Resolution Update

October 29, 2024 • 2-minute read

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News & Achievements