Litigation - Shipping Lawyer in City of London

Leading Global Law Firm is looking to hire a bright Associate:

• Assist with a variety of dry shipping disputes, including charterparty claims, cargo claims, bills of lading issues, demurrage, hire disputes, and ship management agreements.
• Support on wet shipping matters, including collisions, groundings, salvage, pollution, and general average.
• Draft pleadings, witness statements, instructions to counsel, and arbitration submissions.
• Conduct factual and legal research, analyse evidence, and prepare case summaries or advice notes for internal and client use.
• Manage disclosure/review exercises and assist with document production.
• Attend court/arbitration hearings, conferences with counsel, and client meetings as required.

Client Relationship & Matter Management:

• Build strong working relationships with shipowners, charterers, insurers, P&I Clubs, and other maritime stakeholders.
• Prepare clear, accurate client communications, including reporting updates and advice on case strategy.
• Support senior lawyers in managing workstreams, deadlines, and matter administration.

Business Development & Knowledge:

• Contribute to client alerts, industry updates, and thought leadership on developments in shipping law.
• Assist in preparing pitches and materials for client meetings and sector events.
• Maintain and develop specialist knowledge of maritime law, arbitration procedures (LMAA, LCIA, ICC, etc.), and relevant international conventions (e.g., Hague-Visby, Salvage Convention).

Requirements:

• Skills, Experience & Qualifications
• Essential:

• Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales.
• Demonstrated interest or prior experience in maritime or commercial litigation (through seats, internships, or paralegal work).
• Strong analytical, drafting, and research skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with the ability to translate complex issues clearly.
• High level of attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, international practice.

• Experience with LMAA arbitrations or High Court (Commercial Court/Admiralty Court) procedures.
• Knowledge of shipping contracts, charterparties, bills of lading, marine insurance, and/or maritime conventions.
• Proficiency in reviewing technical or operational shipping reports (e.g., from surveyors or P&I Clubs).
• Foreign language capability beneficial but not required.

Personal Attributes:

• Proactive, motivated, and eager to build expertise in shipping litigation.
• Strong team player who contributes positively to a collaborative culture.
• Client-focused mindset with a commercial approach to problem-solving.
• Resilience and adaptability when working on urgent or time-critical matters.