Shipping (International Firms): Greece

Martin Hall is praised for his expertise in proceedings related to marine casualties. He also has much experience of charter party and bill of lading disputes, and often advises on pollution liability.

Department head Jeremy Watson impresses sources with his hands-on and diligent approach. "He understands what we look for and is organised and commercial. We like the way he carries out negotiations and the way he drafts documents," says a client.

Patrick Hawkins heads the Greek office and has a stellar reputation as a shipping litigator. An impressed client says: "He is probably the best in the Greek market."

Andrew Dyer represents clients in litigation and arbitration proceedings related to cargo, salvage, charter party and MOA issues. "It's easy to communicate and deal with him," praises a source.

Dimitri Vassos is regarded as a strong figure in shipping litigation. Sources praise his international understanding and experience.

The "talented and experienced" Gareth Williams is praised for his "strong legal mind and high-quality advice." He is well regarded in the market for his commercial and litigation expertise.

Ship finance partner Alexia Kleonakos enters the rankings after receiving warm client endorsement for her efficiency, personable service and impressive work. "She makes our life so much easier," said one interviewee.

Managing partner Jonathan Elvey is highly respected for his experience, mediation skills and client-focused approach.

George Iatridis heads the firm's Greek law team, and is noted for his contentious and non-contentious shipping and insurance advice.

Antonis Lagadianos handles many disputes, and on the non-contentious side advises on shipbuilding, ship finance and sale and purchase matters.

Ship finance head Robin Parry advises Greek and international lenders. He also acts for shipowners and managers on a range of topics.

Nick Shepherd is "a genuine heavyweight in maritime law, with excellent dispute resolution abilities," according to one interviewee, who adds: "He is also very easy to deal with."

Ship finance expert Yianni Cheilas is praised for his "practical and commercial" work. One client enthuses: "I feel privileged to enjoy such high-level service."

The "prompt and incisive" Marie Kelly heads the dispute resolution team and has an outstanding reputation in shipping litigation. "She gets to grips with the key issues immediately and is an impressive and flexible strategist," says an impressed client. Another source adds: "She is the obvious choice when a shipbuilding dispute is in the making."

Dimitri Sofianopoulos "is the person to have on your side when negotiating a highly complex deal," report clients. He is highly regarded for his expertise in both ship finance and shipping litigation. Another source says: "He has good intuition and people skills."

John Liberopoulos is described as an "up-and-coming commercially minded shipping litigator." Sources commend his knowledge of charter party disputes in particular.

Managing partner John Reece is a leading figure in shipping litigation. Recent work has included a marine insurance case, arrests of vessels and a cargo claim.

George Panagopoulos assisted Newlead Holdings with obtaining five worldwide freezing orders against TMT, securing a total of more than USD15 million. He advises on commercial and shipping litigation.

Managing partner Nigel Bowen-Morris is a market leader in ship finance.

Alexandros Damianidis is also noted for his considerable experience and expertise in ship finance. Clients appreciate his timely advice and business understanding.

Senior associate Chris Vartzis is winning a following with his highly commercial advice. 

Department head Douglas Bateson is a well-known name in Greek shipping litigation, particularly for his advice to P&I clubs. He recently represented Thomas Miller, Willis and the owners of the MV ‘PLATINUM’ in proceedings regarding limitation of liability following a collision with another vessel.

The "exceptional" George Paleokrassas heads the department and has "a commercial approach that facilitates agreements," according to clients.

Marsila Karpida continues to be praised for her quick understanding of clients' concerns, and for her timely and efficient responses.