In 2006 Interleges (www.interleges.com), the international association of independent small and medium-sized law firms, founded The Stephen Rayner Award in memory of its co-founder Stephen A. Rayner of London, who died prematurely in 2005. Interleges intends that this award will become an established annual event in the fields of international commercial law and international dispute resolution, and that it shall serve to further the rule of law. The prize will be awarded to the author of the best essay, and is open to undergraduate law students and graduated law trainees from all jurisdictions.*

 The Award

 Interleges believes that International commercial arbitration is fundamental to the development of international trade. State jurisdiction can be supplemental to international commercial arbitration, but it can also represent a formidable obstacle to arbitration.

 The subject matter:

 LIS PENDENS in international commercial arbitration: freedom of parties v. monopoly of State courts in dispute resolution

 Word limit: 5,000 words

 Prize: US$ 4,000.00

 Plus an invitation to attend the final dinner of the Interleges Annual General Meeting, to be held in Mexico on 5th May 2007. All expenses paid. Staying at the luxury, five-star Hotel Casa Magna, Puerto Vallarta (www.casamagnapuertovallarta.com)

 Deadline:  2nd March 2007

 *Please see following Entry Specifications and Brief Guidance Notes for Applicants.

 Please click here for further information on the award, including Entry Specifications and Guidelines for applicants, or click here for a round-up of last year’s award, including the winners and their essays.