Band 1 | Freehill Hogan & Mahar LLP
What the team is known for Highly regarded team often called upon for high-stakes maritime disputes, acting for clients including P&I clubs and owners. Frequently appears in matters such as personal injury suits and criminal cases. Has a bench of skilled and experienced practitioners, many of whom have prior backgrounds in the naval and maritime space.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
“No other US shipping firm has their combination of industry-savviness, cost-efficient quality service, and a practical approach to solutions.”
“The best firm I have ever worked with in my life. They are very hands-on and we have been very successful together. They are by far my favorite lawyers.”
Work highlights Defended the owners and insurers of a tug boat and barge against $38 million claims that the barge’s anchor caused damage to an undersea electric cable.
Notable practitioners
The “very hands-on” Peter Gutowski is “very business-minded and knows the law extremely well” notes a source. He has longstanding experience in the field and is an expert on issues such as enforcement of judgments and cargo loss and damage disputes.
Wayne Meehan is “an effective litigator” who is highly regarded for his skillful representations in casualty issues, including explosions and collisions. Meehan’s expertise also spans cargo claims and charter party disputes.
Don Murnane is an experienced attorney who regularly handles casualties involving marine terminals and vessels and also has a specialty in issues concerning chemical product tankers. He is a strong litigator who “gets good results for his clients,”according to commentators.
Bill Juska has “impressive experience in the field of maritime law” asserts a client. He is experienced with cargo loss and damage cases and successfully acted for Cetragpa Asia in an arbitration with Xcoal Energy & Resources concerning the timing of a breach of contract for eight shipments of coal.
Michael Unger is praised for his abilities as a litigator, particularly in marine casualty matters. He also handles marine torts, bill of lading disputes and contamination claims, among other issues.
Gina Venezia is a well-regarded litigator who acts on matters at both trial and appellate levels. She handles a range of contentious work, including mass casualty disputes.
Significant clients West of England P&I Club, Rolls Royce North America, AIG, Hapag-Lloyd, American P&I Club.