Mallory Silberman is a prominent figure in the international arbitration field. Silberman shares her journey from a first-year associate to founding her own company, MS Arbitration. She discusses the importance of flexibility in career planning, the value of learning languages, and the evolving landscape of legal training. Topics include her academic background, mentors, the significance of international arbitration, and her passion for training young lawyers. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, such as Mallory's unique role as a flower girl at Kelby's wedding, her teaching experience at Georgetown Law, and the critical need for comprehensive training in law firms.
HIGHLIGHTS:
00:00 Introduction
02:09 Mallory's Career Journey
03:13 Early Influences and Education
05:20 Entering the Legal Profession
14:31 Challenges and Mentorship
18:00 Practical Skills and Training
20:05 Language Skills in International Arbitration
22:05 Debunking the Myths of Partnership
22:23 The Reality of Being a Partner
22:52 The Importance of Asking Questions
24:06 Transition to Academia
26:06 Introduction to International Arbitration
27:30 Investment Arbitration Explained
29:05 Challenges in International Arbitration
33:15 The Apprenticeship Model in Law
37:22 Starting a New Business Venture
40:08 The Flower Girl
42:19 Personal Anecdotes and Reflections
BIOGRAPHY:
Mallory Silberman is a renowned advocate and professor of international arbitration, recognized by Who’s Who Legal as “one of the best advocates” and “among the world’s most experienced young practitioners of investment arbitration.” Over more than a decade in private practice at Arnold & Porter, she served as counsel in nearly 50 disputes across 17 countries, shaping the field of treaty-based arbitration. Today, Professor Silberman shares her expertise by training students and practitioners worldwide in advocacy, project management, cross-examination, and hearing preparation. A prolific author and speaker, she continues to mentor the next generation of advocates while advancing excellence in international arbitration practice.
LINKS:
MS Arbitration: https://www.msarbitration.com
Georgetown Law: https://www.law.georgetown.edu/faculty/mallory-b-silberman/