The key to dealing effectively with any maritime casualty or admiralty issue is a quick and efficient response. You need access to clear advice and measured support as the matter develops which is why we ensure that our casualty lawyers, including legally qualified Master Mariners and ex-seafarers, are on hand to provide you with such reassurance 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The global and ever-evolving nature of the industry means that you may find yourself dealing with unfamiliar issues in unfamiliar jurisdictions. We, at Reed Smith, can quickly partner with your on-the-ground team to provide a unified response to any casualty or admiralty issue – large or small - and help you manage the fall-out.
Environmental Response
Environmental issues always add an extra element to any casualty. Aside from the potential widespread consequences and involvement of external bodies, such as ITOPF, environmental issues can also be a PR crisis. Our casualty and admiralty lawyers are supported by our environmental team in advising on pollution and SCOPIC cases, bearing in mind the various conventions and directives on the prevention of pollution, including MARPOL, HNS, and conventions and directives addressing the issues of dumping, waste and wreckage.
Ship Arrest
Our Dry and Wet Shipping teams are very experienced in dealing with all aspects of vessel arrest in ports around the world. With an unparalleled network of foreign offices and, where necessary, correspondent lawyers in other locations around the globe, we can manage claims swiftly and efficiently for you. We also regularly deal with associated ship arrests in South Africa (and elsewhere) both in seeking security and defending claims there. The team even has access to a number of IT and vessel monitoring services to assist in checking vessel’s locations and analyzing ownership structures.
Shipping Emergency Response
Our global spread across our offices means that our lawyers are on 24/7 standby for casualty and crisis response. You can rely on our casualty and admiralty lawyers to guide you through the crucial first hours and days of any emergency response and beyond. We can assist you in putting together the right team to ensure the best response.
Terminal Damage and Unsafe Ports
Where damage is caused to a terminal or a port is considered unsafe, the impact can go beyond just damage to one vessel. Our lawyers can assist on investigating incidents and advise owners, salvors and P&I Clubs on recovery actions.
Wreck Removal
Wreck removal can be a complex and expensive undertaking, particularly when dealing with offshore casualties. Our lawyers have extensive experience in assisting with wreck removal across the globe and are familiar with the relevant codes of practice and conventions. We are one of the few firms with strong relationships with owners, operators and P&I Clubs, as well as salvors.
Yachts
Emergency response for yachts and private vessels can involve very different considerations to those given to commercial vessels. Our lawyers have advised on a large number of yacht casualties and understand the more personal nature of these events. We can help you understand the complexities of jurisdictional requirements and advise on legal requirements, such as the collection of evidence and reporting.
