D.K. Ameley & Associates

Founded in 2004 by Daniel K. Ameley (an alumnus of the International Maritime Law Institute), D.K. Ameley & Associates was created to fill a niche in Ghana’s legal market for dedicated maritime law services​. Though relatively young as an entity, the firm brings “over three decades of experience in maritime and corporate law” through its founders’ prior practice​.

Operating from Tema – Ghana’s main port city – the firm is strategically positioned to serve the maritime industry. D.K. Ameley & Associates primarily represents shipping lines, charterers, freight forwarders, and marine insurers in both contentious and non-contentious admiralty matters​. The firm’s litigation team has handled numerous cases involving cargo loss and damage, collisions at sea, and enforcement of maritime liens. It is adept at ship arrest procedures in Ghana, often acting swiftly to secure clients’ claims against foreign vessels calling at Tema or Takoradi port. On the advisory side, D.K. Ameley assists with ship registration under the Ghanaian flag, import/export regulations, and compliance with international conventions (such as MARPOL and SOLAS) as incorporated into Ghanaian law. The firm has also advised port operators and logistics companies on contracts and liability regimes, given Ghana’s role as an emergent shipping hub in West Africa. Despite its specialist focus, D.K. Ameley & Associates offers a range of legal services – it couples maritime law with corporate and commercial practice, recognizing that shipping clients often need advice on business structures, financing, and transactions. The firm’s commitment to client service is emphasized by its mission to deliver “quick, efficient and excellent legal services” tailored to client needs​.

Over the years, D.K. Ameley & Associates has contributed to capacity-building in Ghana’s maritime law arena, with its team involved in industry workshops and maritime arbitration initiatives. Today, the firm stands out as one of Ghana’s leading admiralty law chambers, known for deep sector knowledge and a track record of successful outcomes in maritime disputes.