Shipping & Commodities | UK Bar

7 King's Bench Walk is an outstanding chambers that offers first-rate expertise in shipping and commodities. Members of 7 King's Bench Walk have appeared at all levels of court in many recent, high-profile shipping cases, including Quandra Commodities v XL Insurance, a claim arising from a warehouse fraud in Ukraine. The set is particularly recognised for its capabilities in insurance coverage disputes, fraud-related cases and loss of cargo claims. An interviewee notes: "7 King's Bench Walk has outstanding knowledge and is able to handle complex matters," while another adds: "The set is particularly strong in shipping and commodities, offering a real depth of talent from top to bottom."

A market-leading set, Quadrant Chambers continues to excel, offering a raft of stellar silks and high-calibre juniors who exhibit strong sector expertise in both dry and wet shipping matters as well as significant commodities disputes. Members regularly appear in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court in the highest-profile cases, often with far-reaching implications. Recent instructions include Sharp Corp Ltd v Viterra BV, the first case to rule on the proper construction and effect of the Frain and Feed Trade Association Default Clause. Sources say: "The members of chambers are very strong on the law, responsive, and very able advocates," with another interviewee noting: "Quadrant Chambers is the leading set for shipping disputes, and the barristers are extremely capable."

Twenty Essex is a standout set offering impressive expertise in shipping and commodities. The set is renowned for its exceptional shipping litigation practice and represents clients at all levels of court and in arbitration. The chambers exhibits extensive experience in claims stemming from shipbuilding, charter parties and bills of lading. Members are also adept at handling disputes relating to ship arrests, cargo damage and collisions. Work highlights for the year include Sharp Corp Ltd v Viterra BV, a claim for damages for non-performance of two contracts for the purchase of pulses. Clients enjoy working with the set as a result of its unique combination of expertise in energy, environmental and maritime law. The set is noted by interviewees as being "one of the top chambers for shipping" and a client notes: "Twenty Essex has the ability to pick up complex matters quickly and develop practicable and customer-friendly drafts."

Arron Zitver, Christopher Theobald and Anthony Carroll are practice directors at the set.

36 Stone is commended for its members' expertise across significant commodities and shipping disputes. International trade is a particular area of competence for many counsel, who frequently act in overseas jurisdictions. Tenants have recently handled significant cases, such as appearing in the Supreme Court in Herculito Maritime Ltd & Ors v Gunvor International BV & Ors including the hijacking and holding of the tanker 'POLAR'.

One source remarks that the set is "excellent in shipping and commodities related matters," and that it "showcases a diverse range of knowledge and skills, ensuring comprehensive coverage across various legal areas."

4 Pump Court is an excellent set, home to members who exhibit strong capabilities in both wet and dry shipping disputes. The chambers provides a wealth of expertise in shipbuilding, cargo claims and sanctions, regularly advising on overseas jurisdictions. Members counsel clients in Mainland China and Hong Kong on marine and construction work. The set's work highlights include acting in Shell v Greenpeace, a matter concerned with two emergency injunctions obtained from the Admiralty Court to prevent protestors boarding the White Marlin. Interviewees highlight the set as offering "extensive hands-on experience in the shipping industry," and as having a team of barristers who are "very capable and able to handle complex contentious shipping matters in a clinical way."

Carl Wall and Stewart Gibbs are the senior clerks.

Adept across wet and dry shipping matters, members of Essex Court Chambers are regularly sought out by shipbuilders, ship owners, shipyards and insurers for their expert knowledge. Its tenants have acted in high-profile court cases, including MSC Flaminia, a limitation action in which MSC Shipping Company sought a declaration that it is entitled to limit the total amount of its liability in relation to a casualty in 2012. Interviewees praise the set's "clear advice provided on complex issues" and note the set's "impressive and very deep bench."

Joe Ferrigno is head clerk at the set.