John L. Gardiner

John L. Gardiner is a Partner and the Global Head of Skadden’s International Litigation and Arbitration Group, based in New York. With decades of experience in complex, multijurisdictional disputes, John represents clients before leading arbitral institutions and in both federal and state courts across the United States. His exceptional advocacy and global expertise have established him among the world’s foremost international litigators.

John earned his LL.B. from University College Dublin in 1984 and was admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in the Republic of Ireland in 1988, the Roll of Solicitors in England and Wales in 1998, and the New York Bar thereafter. His education and multi-jurisdictional admissions uniquely position him to navigate complex cross-border legal frameworks with precision and authority.

John’s extensive arbitration and mediation practice spans energy, telecommunications, insurance, construction, finance, and intellectual property sectors. He has represented both claimants and respondents in high-value proceedings before the ICC, LCIA, ICDR, HKIAC, SIAC, and UNCITRAL, handling disputes exceeding billions of dollars in value. His work also includes acting as arbitrator and mediator in intricate corporate disputes and joint venture conflicts.

Among his notable representations are global corporations, financial institutions, and public entities, including Starr International Company, Devas Multimedia Private Limited, and C.V. Starr. John also advocates in high-profile U.S. court cases involving complex commercial, securities, and merger disputes.

Consistently recognized by Chambers Global, The Best Lawyers in America, and Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Global Litigators, John L. Gardiner exemplifies excellence in international arbitration. He is an active member of the Executive Committee of the New York International Arbitration Center, and other major arbitration councils worldwide. Through his strategic insight and global experience, John continues to set the standard for excellence in international dispute resolution.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
• Member, New York International Arbitration Center, Executive Committee
• Member, Singapore International Arbitration, Users Council
• Member, United States Council for International Business
• Member, International Council for Commercial Arbitration
• Member, Institute for Transnational Arbitration
• Member, New York State Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• University College Dublin
  Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Awards & Badges