In a recent legal development, the Republic of Sierra Leone has filed counterclaims against the U.S. law firm Jenner & Block, alleging fraudulent overbilling practices.
This action is in response to Jenner & Block’s ongoing lawsuit seeking to recover over $8 million in unpaid legal fees for services rendered between 2019 and 2022.
The dispute centers on the firm’s representation of Sierra Leone in a complex legal matter involving iron ore contractor Gerald International Ltd., which posed a potential $1.8 billion liability for the country.
While Sierra Leone had previously paid $3.6 million for the firm’s services, it disputes the additional fees claimed and contends that the billing practices were deceptive.
U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, D.C., has ruled that the lawsuit can proceed, rejecting Sierra Leone’s claims of sovereign immunity and lack of a valid contract.
As the case moves forward, Jenner & Block will be required to substantiate its claims, while Sierra Leone seeks to challenge the firm’s billing practices.
