A destination practice for shipping work, HFW offers comprehensive coverage of the industry and is also well positioned to advise on complementary areas such as energy and commodities. Ian Cranston fronts the litigation team and is sought after for his extensive experience across the full range of contentious shipping matters, including commercial disputes, yacht casualties, insurance litigation, and sale and purchase-related issues. Office head Andrew Charlier co-heads the global yacht group and specialises in transactions, including yacht sales and acquisitions, and financings. The group also includes shipping litigator Richard Mabane, who relocated from the London office in April 2023, and talented senior associate George Kaye.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team is very client focused, maintains a commercial approach, and is fast and effective.’

  • ‘We highlight Ian Cranston, senior partner, who is very effective, serious and well-prepared.’

  • ‘Lawyers are very commercial and responsive, while not losing sight of the legal importance of issues. Willing to work to budget and business requirements. Ian Cranston and George Kaye are both excellent for all of these reasons.’

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Andrew Charlier

Other key lawyers

Ian Cranston, George Kaye, Richard Mabane