Noerr hires Space Disputes Specialist Laura Yvonne Zielinski in Frankfurt

Zielinski joins from Holland & Knight, where she was senior counsel, and is one of a small number of European arbitration practitioners focusing on disputes arising from satellite operations, launch services and related regulatory frameworks. She is also a co-founder of the Space Arbitration Association, an industry group aimed at fostering dialogue between arbitration practitioners and space sector stakeholders.

The hire reflects Noerr’s strategy to expand its disputes practice in technically complex and geopolitically sensitive sectors, including aerospace, defence and emerging space-based infrastructure.

Growing demand for space disputes expertise

The commercialisation of space and the entry of private operators have increased the volume and complexity of contractual and regulatory issues facing the sector. Practitioners in the field expect a corresponding rise in arbitration relating to satellite manufacturing, launch failures, spectrum allocation and insurance coverage.

Zielinski has written extensively on the topic, arguing that the combination of rising private investment, intensifying competition between states and an evolving regulatory landscape is likely to drive a steady increase in space-related disputes in the coming years.

Fragmented rules and geopolitical risk

Space activities continue to be governed by a patchwork of international treaties, non-binding guidelines and national legislation, leaving significant legal uncertainty around issues such as orbital congestion, space debris liability and the legal status of future lunar activities. These gaps are compounded by the strategic importance of satellite constellations and other space assets, which many states now consider critical to national security.

This mix of commercial growth, regulatory fragmentation and geopolitical tension is expected to make arbitration an increasingly important forum for resolving space-sector disputes.

Strategic addition to Noerr’s arbitration bench

The arrival of Laura Yvonne Zielinski adds to Noerr capacity to handle disputes at the intersection of public international law, regulatory regimes and highly technical industries.

The move underlines a broader trend among international firms seeking to position themselves for an anticipated uptick in disputes arising from the expansion of the global space economy.

Sophie Stevenard