HFW

HFW stands as a global powerhouse in maritime law, widely acknowledged as a leader in the field. Headquartered in London , the firm boasts a history tracing back to 1883, originating from a family of sailing-ship owners and their maritime insurance associations. This deep-rooted connection to the maritime industry has allowed HFW to cultivate an unparalleled reputation for providing expert legal advice across the entire spectrum of shipping and maritime matters. A key differentiator for HFW is its team of highly specialized lawyers, which includes legally qualified Master Mariners and individuals with marine engineering and naval architecture backgrounds. This unique blend of legal and practical maritime expertise enables the firm to offer clients commercially astute and technically sound advice, particularly when dealing with complex operational and casualty-related issues. HFW's commitment to the industry is further underscored by its 24/7 global emergency response service, ensuring immediate support for clients facing critical incidents.  

HFW's expertise spans a comprehensive range of maritime specializations, including Admiralty & Crisis Management, Marine Insurance, Dry Shipping (covering charterparties, bills of lading, cargo claims, and shipbuilding contracts), and Ship Finance and Transactional work. The firm also possesses significant experience in niche areas such as Yacht law, Offshore Energy law, and Shipping Sanctions. Their consistent top-tier rankings in independent legal directories like Chambers and The Legal 500 serve as a testament to their exceptional level of expertise across these diverse areas. HFW has been involved in numerous notable cases, including acting for salvors in major maritime casualties and advising on substantial joint ventures and financing deals. The firm's involvement in high-profile incidents such as the 'Ever Given' grounding in the Suez Canal and their advisory role on insurance matters related to the Malaysian Airways flight MH370 disappearance highlight their capacity to handle the most complex and sensitive international matters. Clients have consistently praised HFW for their responsiveness, clear advice, and deep understanding of the shipping industry. With a global network of over 20 offices and a dedicated team of over 200 shipping lawyers , HFW offers a truly international service. The firm has received numerous industry accolades, including being named 'World's Best Shipping Law Firm' at the Lloyd's List Global Awards and consistently achieving top-tier rankings from various legal publications.