Shipping

Birketts LLP

Birketts LLP’s shipping team, recognised for its expertise in contentious shipping matters, represents charterers, shipowners, and commodities companies in both wet and dry disputes. The team, based across Ipswich, Bristol, and London, has a strong presence in international markets, with instructions stemming from the US, Latin America, and Africa, amongst others. Henry Adams, whose expertise encompasses marine insurance and dry shipping, leads the team jointly with Alex Davey, who also heads up the firm’s litigation department. Alex Penberthy and Clarissa Dumolo joined from legacy firm Ince & Co in September 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘A specific team within Birketts, provides value for money and a very efficient and prompt service, superior to its competitors.’
‘Well-rounded and experienced team who are available round the clock to provide advice when needed.’
‘Alex Penberthy and Daniel Crockford stand out in my view for their exceptional customer service, prompt response and quality of service and advice.’
‘Tom Hodges - easy to work with and keen to go the extra mile to provide the best legal support. Not afraid to get into the detail and tackly thorny legal issues.’
‘Excellent specialist knowledge, friendly and approachable, good value for money.’
‘Alex Penberthy is my go-to lawyer in England & Wales. Reports very clear and comprehensive. Trustworthy with matters of any size.’

Key clients

U-Ming Marine Transport Singapore Pte Ltd
Atlantis International Service NV
Filhet-Allard Maritime
Tradhol Internacional
Diot-SIACI
Total Energies Trading and Shipping SA
HDI Global SE
Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty SE
Kolmar Group AG
Barbuss Global
Sunderland Marine
Arc Legal Group
Navigators & General
International General Insurance (IGI)
Royal & Sun Alliance (RSA)
Zurich
Millstream Underwriting Limited & Nexus Europe SAS UK Branch
Gallagher UK
Nautical Insurance Services
Tokio Marine
Osprey Shipping Ltd
Noble Marine

Work highlights

Advising and guiding U-Ming Transport Marine Transport Pte Ltd, in respect of a cargo being detained in Latvia due to allegations it belonged to a sanctioned individual.
Successfully represented Atlantis International in a High Court action concerning the applicable York-Antwerp Rules in CONGENBILL 1994.
Representing Hull & Machinery insurers in an ongoing High Court claim concerning carriage of a dangerous cargo which is alleged to have resulted in the sinking of the vessel.