LL203: International Commercial Litigation and Arbitration

With the rise of globalisation, businesses that enter foreign markets are exposed to the legal frameworks of the countries they choose to do business in. As a result, the field of international commercial litigation and arbitration has become increasingly complex. Businesses must navigate the intricate legal landscape, understanding the implications of doing business globally and how this impacts when, where and how they can resolve legal disputes.

This course offers a concise introduction to the legal challenges relating to the international dimension of litigating commercial disputes, both before state courts and in arbitration. With London being one of the most important centres for commercial litigation and arbitration in the world, the course focuses on the relevant English and European Union law, invoking experiences from other jurisdictions where useful.

You will gain a theoretical and practical understanding of modern litigation and arbitration, with special attention paid to the means of anticipating problems in contractual stipulations such as jurisdictional clauses, choice-of-law clauses and arbitration clauses. By the end of the course, you will have a thorough understanding of the complex international legal landscape and the implications of doing business around the world.

Prerequisites: An introductory law course.

Level: 200 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees: Please see Fees and payments

Lectures: 36 hours

Classes: 18 hours

Assessment: One examination and one essay

Typical credit: 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course is suitable if you want a concise introduction to the legal challenges relating to the international dimension of litigating commercial disputes, both before state courts and in arbitration. It is especially useful if you are targeting a role in law or within a multinational organisation.

• Understand the jurisdiction of courts in commercial matters within Europe and the UK
• Analyse complex commercial litigation and the enforcement of foreign judgements in commercial matters
• Interpret the nature and sources of international arbitration
• Understand the process of drafting and enforcing arbitration agreements
• Discuss the role of public policy in international arbitration

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.