Shipping Disputes: Shaping New Law into Solution-Focused Answers for Your Clients

Chair's Introduction

Shipping disputes: Shaping new law into solution-focused answers for your clients

Chaired by: David Pitlarge of Hill Dickinson

David is a "fantastic" shipping lawyer. He has expertise in both wet and dry shipping matters covering maritime casualties, charter parties and shipbuilding contracts.

Volcafe litigation

Which grey areas and unresolved arguments remain after the Volcafe litigation, in relation to the burden of proof and the defence of inherent vice?

Answered by: Sean O'Sullivan QC

Sean is “an absolute star: thoughtful, assiduous and a case winner.” He acted in a dispute between a Greek shipowner and an LNG trader about seaworthiness obligations.

Risk allocation

Does the "Pacific Voyager" litigation mark the demise of the Monroe v Ryan doctrine, on the allocation of risk before a vessel enters into its chartered service?

Answered by: Steven Berry QC

Steven is a "brilliant trial lawyer and strategist" who is "venerated" for his shipping practice. He is particularly skilled in charter party, marine insurance and bill of lading disputes.

Bunker claims

To what extent are Charterers under a T/C required to provide bunkers in reliance on/ accordance with the engine specification in the C/P?

Answered by: Michael Collett QC

Michael is "absolutely first-rate and very good to deal with on insurance disputes." He acted in the 'Golden Endurance' dispute about where a cargo claim should be decided.

Dishonesty

With the Brillante Virtuoso litigation bubbling away, when does dishonesty forfeit an otherwise valid marine insurance claim?

Answered by: Sara Masters QC

Sara is “a brilliant silk for shipping; very good with complex, technical cases.” She acted in Glencore v MSC, a follow-on case concerning liability for container demurrage.

Bills of Lading

In the spotlight of The Sea Master, when are Finance Banks subject to arbitral jurisdiction under Bills of Lading they no longer hold?

Is there any wriggle room?

Answered by: Chirag Karia QC

Chirag is "one of the most effective shipping barristers at the bar - he produces superb results." He is joint editor of “Butterworths Commercial Court and Arbitration Pleadings.”

Deviating carriers

The Sur and deviating carriers: same-old same-old – or watch this space?

Where is the law moving?

Answered by: Professor Charles Debattista

Charles is “a star junior who would be recommended among any group at any set.” He acted in Thunderbird v Wellgrain, a complex case arising from soybean shipments.

Delay claims

Drawing on the Global Santosh decision, who bears the risk of delay caused by arrest or a loss of markets claim? Is it merely a matter of drafting?

Answered by: Robert Bright QC

Robert is "one of the best silks around - phenomenally intelligent - with an exceptional reputation for his advocacy." He appeared in NatWest Markets plc v Stallion Eight Shipping Co.