HFW‘s shipping practice stands out as a leading player in the maritime sector, renowned for its comprehensive expertise across wet and dry, green shipping, and cybersecurity. Under the leadership of global head Paul Dean, the team excels in handling high-profile casualties, cargo claims, as well as transactional work. Noteworthy practitioners include Andrew Chamberlain, a wet shipping expert, and Jean Koh, who specialises in dry shipping work and has extensive expertise in matters relating to the Asian market. Crisis management experts Claire Womersley and Richard Neylon, alongside maritime casualty specialist Michael Ritter, are pivotal in addressing major incidents. Core contacts for maritime disputes are Paolo Ghirardani and Jim Cashman, while Alex Kemp excels in container ship casualties and war risk claims. Marine insurance matters fall under the advisory portfolio of Jenny Salmon, and Rory Butler is active across both dry and admiralty work. Elinor Dautlich left the firm January 2024.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Strength in-depth is second to none in the Shipping market. Some truly exceptional legal advisors with strong commercial and strategic acumen.’
‘I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Paul Dean - he offers wise and commercial advice in times of need and is keenly aware of the importance of good client service. A class act.’
Key clients
- The Republic of South Africa
- Hellenic Mutual War Risks Association (Bermuda) Ltd./Travelers Syndicate Management Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised The Republic of South Africa in regards to 2,364 bars of silver salvaged from the wreck of the "SS TILAWA".
- Advised Hellenic Mutual War Risks on the outbreak of the Russa-Ukraine war, advising on exposure to risk, along with assisting in the management of exposure during the conflict and advising on a number of constructive total loss claims.