Patton, Moreno & Asvat garners praise from clients for its ‘first-class knowledge and service’ in the field of shipping law. The team is consistently active in advising major financial institutions and shipping companies on financing the acquisition of vessels and the registration of ship mortgages, as well as corporate transactions involving ship owners or guaranteed by naval mortgages. The firm’s presence in London (where Enrique Sibauste is the key contact for maritime services) means it is particularly well equipped to assist international clients. María Teresa Díaz, who draws upon more than 30 years’ experience in ship finance and registrations, jointly heads the practice with Belisario Porras, who is described as ‘an industry leader in shipping in Panama’. Other names to note include Nadya Price and associate Joaquín de Obarrio, a specialist in maritime litigation.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘First-class knowledge and service from shipping industry experts.’
‘Belisario Porras is an industry leader in shipping in Panama. He is always available and provides expert advice in a very timely manner.’
Key clients
- Watson, Farley & Williams
- Holman Fenwick Willan
Work highlights
- Acted as Panamanian legal adviser to JP Morgan Securities and US Bank Trust Company, National Association in connection with a public offering of $2bn 10.375% senior unsecured notes due 2028 by cruise company Carnival Holdings.
- Acted as Panamanian legal adviser to Goldman Sachs & Co, as the underwriter, in connection with a public offering of an aggregate of 102,139,621 shares of Carnival Corporation.