Maritime

“There is no danger the Titanic will sink. The boat is unsinkable and nothing but inconvenience will be suffered by the passengers.”
Phillip Franklin, White Star Line Vice-President

Maritime transport can be a risky business. Even the very best technology, planning and seamanship will not always overcome the power of the sea, the weather and plain human error. That’s where we come in.

History famously shows that the Titanic was no match for an iceberg looming out of the darkness. Less well known is the level of protection the ship’s owners enjoyed against the ensuing legal consequences.

The lesson to be learned is obvious. Risk is a fact of life. Legal risk management should be too.

The outstanding Maritime team at Middletons can help you chart a course to manage the risks of marine endeavours.

In fact, our proud history of providing legal services and commercial advice can be traced through predecessor firms to the late 19th Century. We continue to view the sector as a key
practice area.

A wealth of knowledge and experience and a commitment to ongoing professional development is integral to our position as a premier transport and trade practice in the PacificRim.

Our knowledge in all aspects of maritime law and commercial shipping sees us counsel long-standing liner and bulk ship operators and associated interests including P&I insurers, hull insurers, brokers and port agents. In addition, we act for financial institutions, terminal operators, port authorities, resources companies and bulk commodities traders.

In an era of better ship design, accurate charts and satellite navigation the waters have never been safer. Likewise, on the wharves a culture of safety has replaced the sometimes reckless work practices of the past. Even so, maritime risk and insurance have long gone hand-in-hand and we have built an unparalleled knowledge working for owners, managers and insurers in advising on liability, claim management and litigation.

The international character of our practice has enabled us to develop long-standing relationships with offshore insurers, foreign vessel owners, leading overseas law firms and prominent industry representatives in all major international transport centres. This worldwide network is an essential resource in an industry in which immediate access to expert advice in a multitude of jurisdictions may be critical.

With offices in both Melbourne and Sydney, we also offer a full suite of integrated legal resources in transport and trade, commercial litigation, and taxation and revenue.

When it comes to big law firms, you will find we talk your language but challenge your thinking. That’s how we break the mould. We strive to provide you with the most pragmatic, cost-effective and commercially savvy advice possible.

Ensure that legal risks don’t sink your interests. Enlist the help of our team in steering clear of
the icebergs.

For further information:
Stephen Thompson | Partner
T: +61 2 9513 2369
E: