Sarah MONNERVILLE SMITH
Sarah Monnerville Smith is a Partner at Eversheds Sutherland in Paris. She has extensive experience representing multinational corporations, Sovereign States, and State‑owned entities in high‑stakes litigation, international arbitration, and global enforcement of arbitral awards.
From 2022 to 2025, Sarah acted as Co‑Chair of the CFA40, the under‑40 group of the French Arbitration Committee. Since 2024, she has been part of the leadership team of Eversheds Sutherland’s Industrial Sector Group.
Sarah has led clients to major successes, including a landmark annulment decision in an investment arbitration involving US$ 525 million in claims which was recognised as one of the “most important decisions” of the year at the 2021 Global Arbitration Review Awards.
She was ranked as a Global Elite Thought Leader Under 45 in Arbitration in the 2026 Lexology Index.
This achievement reflects outstanding feedback from clients and peers:
• "Sarah is star in both litigation and arbitration in Paris. She has an unusual mix of top legal acumen and a wonderful personality that makes her a go-to choice for clients."
• "Sarah brings a sharp legal and practical approach to international arbitration. Her work reflects both technical precision and a strong sense of strategy, making her a standout in the field".
• "Ms Monnerville Smith stands out for her remarkable rigor, responsiveness, and a strong commitment to defending client interest".
• "The go-to lawyer for enforcement of arbitral awards in France and French arbitration matters."
• "Sarah is a true strategist with a deep knowledge of French law. This combination renders her an exceptionally effective advocate in cases involving complex legal issues".
Clients also praise her for practicing “at the highest level of professional excellence, skill, and integrity,” with “exceptional legal, ethical, and communication abilities,” and note that she “impresses with her energy and determination in managing complex matters” (Legal 500, 2023).
Sarah regularly lectures on international dispute resolution and frequently speaks and publishes on related topics.
Committed to Diversity & Inclusion, she is actively involved in the Revel@Her mentoring initiative of Club 21e Siècle, supporting women from diverse cultural and social backgrounds in overcoming the double glass ceiling.
