Our expertise
Shipping & Maritime
English-law support for shipping and maritime contracts and commercial disputes, coordinated with specialist and overseas advisers where needed.
Discuss your enquiryWho we help
Shipowners, charterers, cargo interests, traders, logistics businesses and overseas law firms dealing with shipping-related commercial matters.
How we can help
Shipping and trade agreements
Review of charterparty, carriage, logistics and related commercial agreements within an agreed English-law scope. We consider the allocation of obligations, payment, liability, notices and dispute resolution provisions.
Cargo, freight and contractual disputes
Advice on contractual claims concerning cargo loss or damage, freight, hire, delay and the performance of shipping agreements. We assess the documents, evidence and applicable terms before advising on the claim or defence.
Arbitration and proceedings
Support with English-law maritime disputes in arbitration and proceedings in England and Wales, working with specialist advocates where required. The contract and relevant jurisdiction rules determine the appropriate route.
Cross-border coordination
We work alongside overseas lawyers and the client’s commercial or insurance advisers where a matter involves several jurisdictions. Local advice and specialist remedies are considered separately, with responsibilities agreed at the outset.
Our approach
We identify the contract, vessel or shipment, parties, relevant countries and any immediate deadline. Advice takes account of contractual time bars, notice requirements and practical recovery issues. We confirm the team and scope before accepting the instruction.
Common questions
Can you help if the parties are based outside the UK?
Yes, where there is an agreed English-law role. We assess the governing law and dispute resolution provisions and coordinate local-law input where required.
What documents are likely to be relevant?
Depending on the matter, these may include the charterparty, bill of lading, booking terms, invoices, notices, survey reports and correspondence. We confirm how to provide them after initial checks.
Can I wait until commercial negotiations finish before seeking advice?
Do not assume negotiations preserve a claim. Contractual or legal time limits may continue to run, so highlight any known deadline and seek advice promptly.
Your next step
Discuss your matter
Tell us about your circumstances, the parties involved and any important dates. We will explain the next step and the scope and fees for any work we agree to undertake.
Contact our teamWe act for privately funded clients and do not undertake legal aid work.