HFW, Shipping | Chambers Global Profile

About

Provided by HFW

We are widely recognised as the best maritime law firm in the world and constantly strive to be at the forefront of the shipping sector. We have evolved with our clients, keeping the world moving from the beginning of the supply chain to the end.

We operate in the world’s key shipping hubs, enabling us to provide a streamlined, global service when our clients need us most, whether helping them to negotiate deals, solve disputes or comply with the increasingly complex regulations affecting them. We’re fast to act, first on the scene, frontline problem solvers. And, having honed a truly collaborative approach to client service, our contribution goes beyond the norm for a law firm.

Our firm is one of the only in the Asia Pacific region to be able to offer clients in the shipping sector a full-service offering- we have strong capabilities in: admiralty and crisis management, complex matters, ship finance, offshore oil and gas and ship construction.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Shipping: Finance - Asia-Pacific Region

Band 2

What the Team is Known For

HFW has a superb shipping law disputes practice with outstanding capabilities across China, Singapore and Australia, alongside a notable offering within the South Korean market. It is particularly astute in handling casualty response across its offices, as well as charter party, bill of lading, environmental and offshore vessel disputes. Frequently, the firm is instructed by leading maritime clients, including ship owners and P&I clubs, on insurance claims. It is well placed to assist with major shipping incidents involving cargo damage, marine casualties and personal injury claims.

Notable practitioners

Key points of contact for the firm are Gavin Vallely in Melbourne, Christopher Chan in Hong Kong and Chris Metcalf in Singapore.

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Work Highlights

Provided by HFW

HFW acted for The Shipowners' Mutual Protection and Indemnity Association in a personal injury claim brought by a passenger injured on board a cruise in the Port of Melbourne before the Supreme Court of Victoria.
HFW represented SANCHI before Hong Kong and Shanghai courts against CF CRYSTAL following a collision resulting in the entire loss of cargo and crew.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

"HFW were not only able to weigh in on the legal angle but also added commercial pointers as well. The team were able to assess the bargaining power of the opposing party and press on from there."