Ersoy Bilgehan Lawyers & Consultants is best known for its work on shipping matters, but the firm, which is ‘distinguished by its strategic approach and deep legal expertise’, also handles a broad range of contentious matters in the transport and energy sectors. Clients praise senior partners Ergün Ersoy and Zihni Bilgehan, experienced litigator Emre Ersoy, who shows ’unwavering dedication to clients’, and the ‘professional, patient, logical, and conscientious’ M. Raci Alper, who specialises in shipping and insurance matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘We had a unique problem, with a claim, in an unfamiliar jurisdiction. We contacted Ersoy Bilgehan, following a recommendation from a trusted partner - and we are really happy that we did. EB was exceptional in getting up to speed with our issue, in breaking down the hurdles faced, and in their communication throughout the whole process and to all involved. We achieved a really pleasing result, mainly down to the helpful work of the firm.’

  • ‘M. Raci Alper has been our point of contact and has been exceptional. His approach was professional, patient, logical, and conscientious.’

  • ‘Ersoy Bilgehan Lawyers & Consultants' dispute resolution practice is distinguished by its strategic approach and deep legal expertise. The team excels in managing complex cases, offering tailored solutions that prioritize clients' interests. Their commitment to clear communication and collaboration ensures clients are always informed and supported throughout the process. Emre Ersoy, a standout figure in the team, brings sharp analytical skills and practical insights that give clients a significant advantage. The firm also adopts innovative legal technologies and flexible billing practices, setting them apart from other firms in the field.’

  • ‘Emre Ersoy stands out for his exceptional expertise, strategic mindset, and unwavering dedication to clients. His proactive problem-solving and keen understanding of banking and finance regulations make him an invaluable advisor. Emre's ability to navigate complex challenges with clarity and precision sets him apart, while his accessibility and commitment to client success are truly unmatched.’

  • ‘Ersoy Bilgehan offers market-leading legal advice in all aspects of marine and international trade work. Their deep industry knowledge, combined with first-class knowledge and experience of local law and procedure makes them my number one choice every time.’

  • ‘The team is very experienced. They intervene in the process immediately. They constantly inform and keep you informed of the situation.’

  • ‘The team is highly educated and good approach towards the matter. They have a good commercial approach. Straight to the point.’

  • ‘Zihni Bilgehan is a leading name in Turkish dispute resolution. He is guaranteed to provide you with a speedy and effective solution to any problem. Raci Alper provides top-tier advice with commercial and pragmatic application.’

Key clients

  • Gebrüder Weiss GMBH
  • Er Madencilik A.S.
  • Sheraton Hotels and Resorts
  • Dedeman Hotels and Resorts
  • Triumph Offshore Private Limited (Swan Energy)
  • Eren Holding A.S.
  • TT Club
  • Borusan Holding A.S.
  • Omsan Lojistik A.S.
  • Fina Holding A.S.
  • Vitol SA
  • Allianz Versicherung AG
  • Hiscox MGA Ltd.
  • Aston FFI Suisse
  • DVB Bank SE
  • Ulusoy Holding A.S.
  • Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation
  • GESBEY Enerji Türbini ve Kule Üretim San. Tic. A.Ş.
  • Synergas SRL
  • K LINE Pte Ltd
  • BB Energy Trading Limited
  • Apollo Underwriting
  • Arkas Holding
  • Wartsila Finland Oy
  • DNV Group
  • SIAT - Società Italiana Assicurazioni e Riassicurazioni
  • Eksportfinansiering Norge
  • London Syndicate Underwriters as Reinsurers of Eregli Demir Celik Fabrikalari A.S.
  • Orient Overseas Container Line
  • Willis Towers Watson
  • Eimskipafélag Íslands hf
  • Evergreen Marine (Taiwan) Ltd
  • Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Group
  • NorthStandard
  • The Shipowners’ Mutual Protection and Indemnity Association
  • Wk Webster & Co. Ltd
  • Holman Fenwick Willan LLP
  • Clyde & Co.
  • West Of England (P&I) Club
  • Steamship Mutual (P&I) Club
  • The Swedish Club
  • Uk Mutual (P&I) Club
  • Gard P&I Club
  • Genel Denizcilik Nakliyati A.S.
  • Ekol Lojistik A.S.
  • Japan P&I Club
  • TMS Bulkers Ltd
  • Arcadia Hellas
  • Kalimbassieris Maritime
  • Cosco Shipping
  • Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
  • AP Moller Maersk
  • Turk P&I Insurance As
  • Vitruvian Fund Sicav P.L.C
  • Thomas Miller Specialty
  • Doun Kisen Co Ltd.
  • The Britannia Steam Ship Insurance Association Limited
  • If P&C Insurance Ltd
  • CMA CGM
  • Hapag Lloyd AG
  • Oldendorff Carriers
  • Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co. Ltd.
  • Mars Logistics S.A.R.L.
  • Sidra Maritime Ltd

Work highlights

  • Assisting the insurers of the charterers of the vessel YM WITNESS, which was involved in an allision with three shore cranes at Evyap Port. The total claim amount is anticipated to exceed USD 500,000,000.00.
  • Representing the shipowners, bareboat charterers, the club, H&M insurers of M/V Benitamou in relation to a major collision incident at Canakkale Strait between BC Vanessa and Benitamou.
  • Assisting the charterers of a container vessel that ran aground with a USD 200 million claim.

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.
Ergün Ersoy
Hall of fameErsoy Bilgehan Lawyers & Consultants

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Ergün Ersoy, Zihni Bilgehan, M. Raci Alper, Emre Ersoy