Chambers Review
Stephenson Harwood has an impressive asset finance practice with ability across shipping, rail and aviation matters. The firm's notable rail finance practice advises on rolling stock procurement and leasing structures. It handles strong shipping finance work with international banks and ship owners on tax leasing, restructurings and ship sale and purchase. The firm's experience in aviation deals includes financing for commercial aircraft and corporate jets. It is also noted for its counsel on complex plant and machinery financings.
Work Highlights
- Stephenson Harwood advised Northern Trains on its financing of the Class 195 option trains.
- The firm advised Fleetscape Capital on the financing of four dual-fuelled VLCC tankers, ordered by Advantage Tankers.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Stephenson Harwood is very responsive and their service levels are top notch. Despite geographical and time differences, they are very proactive with their responses and always available on calls, and make their presence felt on deals and negotiations."
"They have a deep understanding of the nuances of ship finance transactions and when appropriate, combine this with a commercial and flexible approach to get the deal done."
"The team is very strong commercially and always thinks along with their clients."
"It's a well-experienced team with a hands-on mentality."
"They have performed and delivered in a timely manner and go the extra step to make the deliverable as strong as possible."
"Stephenson Harwood is very responsive and their service levels are top notch. Despite geographical and time differences, they are very proactive with their responses and always available on calls, and make their presence felt on deals and negotiations."
"They have a deep understanding of the nuances of ship finance transactions and when appropriate, combine this with a commercial and flexible approach to get the deal done."
"The team is very strong commercially and always thinks along with their clients."
"It's a well-experienced team with a hands-on mentality."
"They have performed and delivered in a timely manner and go the extra step to make the deliverable as strong as possible."
Notable Practitioners
Ian Mace regularly works with financial institutions and ship owners on large transactions, including the sale and leaseback of oil tankers and vessels. He heads the global ship finance group at the firm.
"He's a seasoned professional with very high skills and ethics."
"He combines a deep understanding of legal matters with a commercial and flexible mindset."
James Collins is developing a strong aviation finance practice. He advises on a range of issues including sale and leasebacks, and syndicated facilities.
"James is a savvy and dependable lawyer and is always available and responsive. He is commercially sound and makes a good impact on deals."
Rebecca Garner acts for airlines on a range of aircraft finance matters. She is particularly adept in sale agreements.
"Rebecca is a very experienced and astute partner. The working relationship is superb and she has an excellent understanding of our requirements."
"She is easy to work with and pragmatic."
Richard Parsons is the global head of aviation at the firm and adept at handling a range of transactions in the space. He often works with banks and operating lessors.
"Richard Parsons is commercially astute and technically excellent. He is thorough and measured and provides reasoned explanations for his recommendations."
Julie Clegg is a partner in the firm's London office and has a notable ship financing practice. She handles various transactions, including loan facility agreements.
"Julie is so practical and also technically excellent."
Ranked Lawyers at
Stephenson Harwood LLP
UK-wide