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.
Desirable
- 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.