Stephenson Harwood

Commercial litigation

Richard is a marine insurance specialist, regularly acting for London market insurance clients on coverage issues, advising on wordings and helping to resolve disputes sensibly.

Richard acts for insurers over a wide range of classes of business, with a focus in particular on Hull and Machinery insurers, war and liability disputes. He also advises on salvage, general average and recovery angles, providing legal and practical input.

Despite being a seasoned litigator, Richard aims to bring a sensible and commercial approach to disputes to achieve early resolution.

He has enjoyed a focus on yacht insurance disputes, advising on multiple coverage issues ranging from design issues, paint damage, engine damage and total losses.  A recent highlight includes the Galatea, where he acted for Hull and Machinery insurers, successfully defending a €13 million total loss (by fire) of a 36m Riva yacht.

Richard is a core member of the firm's yacht and superyacht team and regularly advises on contentious matters in the sector, with a particular focus on insurance disputes.