EPISODE · Apr 22, 2026 · 59 MIN
Duncan Speller, Global Co-Chair of International Disputes at Duane Morris — On International Arbitration, Advocacy and Building a Global Practice
from Lawsy Originals
In this episode, Duncan, Global Co-Chair of the International Disputes Group at Duane Morris, shares his journey from training as a barrister in London to building a global career across leading US law firms.From his early days at the Bar to spending over two decades in private practice, Duncan explains why he transitioned into US firms and how that shaped his exposure to international work, advocacy and client relationships.He discusses the key differences between barristers and solicitors, the evolution of legal practice and why owning the full lifecycle of a dispute can deliver better outcomes for clients.The conversation explores international arbitration in depth — what it is, how it works in practice and why it has become a preferred method of resolving cross-border disputes. Duncan also breaks down how arbitration compares to litigation, including speed, enforceability and flexibility.Duncan shares insights from building teams across multiple firms, including his recent move to Duane Morris and the opportunity to help shape a truly global disputes practice spanning London, the US and Asia.The episode also covers major trends shaping the legal industry, including the rise of AI, legal tech and third-party funding — as well as the opportunities and risks these bring for lawyers at all levels.Finally, Duncan reflects on career highlights, the importance of mentorship and authenticity in advocacy and offers practical advice for junior lawyers looking to succeed in international arbitration and beyond.00:00 Introduction 00:20 Meet Duncan: Career Overview 01:00 Why Become a Barrister 03:00 Moving into US Law Firms 05:00 Barrister vs Solicitor 07:30 Early Career, Mentors & Client Exposure 10:00 Becoming a Partner & Winning Work 12:00 Moving Firms & Building Teams 14:00 Joining Duane Morris & Global Strategy 16:30 What is International Arbitration? 20:00 How Arbitration Works (Rules, Tribunals, Clauses) 25:00 Arbitration vs Litigation 28:00 Life as an Advocate 32:00 Trends: AI & Third-Party Funding 35:00 London & English Law Globally 38:00 AI in Practice & Legal Tech Tools 45:00 Advice for Junior Lawyers 48:00 The Vienna Moot 51:00 Career Highlights 58:00 Final Advice & Reflections
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In this episode, Duncan, Global Co-Chair of the International Disputes Group at Duane Morris, shares his journey from training as a barrister in London to building a global career across leading US law firms. From his early days at the Bar to spending over two decades in private practice, Duncan explains why he transitioned into US firms and how that shaped his exposure to international work, advocacy and client relationships. He discusses the key differences between barristers and solicito...
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Duncan Speller, Global Co-Chair of International Disputes at Duane Morris — On International Arbitration, Advocacy and Building a Global Practice
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