Maritime

　

Cargo claims and defense

We handle a large number of claims for damages of cargo lost or damaged during sea, air or land transport. We often work with our clients from the stage of an accident with a view toward a final settlement. In addition, we hold regular study meetings with cargo insurance companies and conduct daily research on the best way to handle accidents according to the actual circumstances of the case. When a collision, grounding, fire, sinking or capsizing of a large ship occurs, there are many cargo interests and the handling of the case becomes extremely complex.

Marine accidents such as collisions, groundings, fires, sinkings and capsizings of vessels

These cases involve complex legal relationships between numerous stakeholders across national borders. The end result obtained can vary greatly depending on the initial response, such as the preservation of claims and evidence and the acquisition of favorable jurisdiction. We are able to respond quickly and appropriately from the initial response to the resolution of the case, based not only on our knowledge of the Conventions and national and international law, but also on our extensive experience and track record in handling marine accidents, and through our network of law firms in other countries.

Disputes over charterparties

The resolution of external disputes over charterparties is another area in which our firm specializes. As national and international law is involved, when disputes arise, we handle them in cooperation with lawyers in various countries, from settlement negotiations to resolution by arbitration. We also use our experience in resolving such disputes to advise on language that is less likely to give rise to disputes and more advantageous to the client when concluding charterparties. In addition, based on our many years of experience in the maritime field, we also advise on the adjustment of the charterparty to suit the client's type of business.

Vessel arrest

Arrest of a vessel is a powerful tool when claiming maritime-related claims. On the other hand, it can be very painful for shipowners whose vessels are arrested by court order. Both positions require an extremely swift response. We have, of course, handled many arrest cases in Japan, but vessel arrests can take place anywhere in the world, not just in Japan. We work with lawyers from all over the world in both arrest proceedings on the creditor's side and release proceedings on the shipowner's side.

Salvage, wreck removal, oil pollution and waste disposal

In the event of a marine accident, issues arise such as the salvage of vessels, cargo and other goods, oil spill control measures to prevent and mitigate environmental damage, and in the event of a total loss of goods, the removal of the ship's hull and disposal of the cargo. We offer extensive knowledge, experience and performance in these matters, including initial response, negotiation of contracts for salvage and wreck removal, practical advice, negotiation of settlements when disputes arise, and resolution through arbitration.

Cruise Ship Accidents

An accident on a cruise ship/ferry can result in problems involving lives, bodies and property of a large number of passengers. Our firm has extensive experience in dealing with such situations.

Marine Accidents Inquiry

Marine Accident cases often involve a Marine Accident Inquiry, which is a one-stop service. A marine accident tribunal is held to take disciplinary action against holders of marine licenses who are at fault for marine accidents. We offer extensive experience in assisting in marine accidents inquiry. We work with marine counselors who are former master mariners to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.

Conditions of carriage

We offer extensive experience in drafting and revising various types of conditions of carriage, including clauses on the back of a bill of lading. We use our extensive experience in dealing with various forms of accidents to provide advice on the interpretation of clauses of carriage and, through our workshops, provide information and advice on the latest trends and the results of research into treaties, national and international legislation and court decisions.

Ship sale and purchase

In addition to advising on the conclusion of ship purchase and sale contracts, we also handle the resolution of disputes arising from the sale and purchase of ships, as well as international arbitration cases. Knowledge and experience of ship chartering contracts and the like are also essential for the sale and purchase of ships, and we strive to provide thorough advice from a broad perspective that considers all kinds of legal relationships.

Shipbuilding contract

Our firm handles a number of issues surrounding shipbuilding contracts. As well as the shipbuilding contracts themselves, we also provide advice on related financing and security agreements. In addition, we handle not only disputes relating to manufacturing defects in new shipbuilding, but also negotiate and arbitrate disputes arising from ship inspections and repair work.