Admiralty and Maritime Dispute Resolution in 2025
TRW Law Firm is a distinguished leader in Admiralty and Maritime Dispute Resolution in Bangladesh. With a proven track record spanning over a decade, the firm has represented local and international clients across the full spectrum of maritime claims, including bunker disputes, ship collisions, cargo damage, mortgage claims, freight disputes, and seafarer wage claims. TRW Law Firm has consistently delivered exceptional results, gaining the trust of shipowners, charterers, freight forwarders, banks, insurance companies, and international P&I Clubs.
Our expertise extends to urgent and complex maritime litigation in the Admiralty Court of Bangladesh, where swift action is critical. Whether pursuing ship arrest applications, negotiating vessel releases, or resolving high-stakes cargo disputes, our dedicated maritime lawyers act promptly and decisively. Clients praise TRW Law Firm for its professionalism, efficiency, and ability to bridge jurisdictions to resolve cross-border maritime claims effectively.
Key Areas of Admiralty and Maritime Practice
1. Ship Arrest and Release
Ship arrest is one of the most effective legal remedies available in maritime disputes, particularly for recovering outstanding dues or claims. TRW Law Firm specializes in both the arrest and prompt release of vessels in Bangladeshi waters. Our team has successfully represented numerous clients in obtaining court orders to detain vessels for claims ranging from unpaid freight and bunker charges to cargo damage and crew wages.
Notable Example: We recently acted on behalf of a leading global P&I Club to secure the release of the vessel MV Sea Venture following its detention at Chattogram port. The matter involved complex cargo claims and statutory challenges raised by port authorities.
2. Cargo Damage and Shortfall Claims
Cargo disputes are common in maritime trade, often involving loss, damage, or shortfall during carriage. Our team represents shipowners, freight forwarders, and cargo owners in claims arising under bills of lading, charter party agreements, and international conventions.
Illustration: TRW Law Firm successfully resolved a case involving a shipment of bulk grain damaged during transit. We represented the shipper and secured compensation for damages exceeding USD 500,000 through effective negotiation and court proceedings.
3. Bunker Supply Disputes
Disputes over bunker quality, quantity, and payment are frequent in the maritime industry. TRW Law Firm has represented bunker suppliers, vessel owners, and charterers in claims involving breach of contract, maritime liens, and vessel arrest.
Case Study: Acting for Global Marine Fuels Ltd., a UK-based bunker supplier, we secured full payment of outstanding dues and interest for bunker supplied to the vessel MT Ocean Star. The vessel was arrested in Bangladeshi waters and released following settlement of claims.
4. Mortgage and Financing Claims
Ship mortgages and financing disputes often involve complex legal and procedural challenges. TRW Law Firm represents financial institutions, banks, and vessel owners in enforcing mortgage rights and resolving financing-related claims.
Example: Our team successfully represented National Bank Ltd. in recovering its mortgage claim against the vessel MV Horizon Express. The Admiralty Court upheld the bank’s lien and ordered the vessel’s sale to satisfy the claim.
5. Crew Wage and Seafarer Claims
TRW Law Firm actively advocates for crew members and seafarers in wage recovery claims. We understand the urgency of such matters and act promptly to secure payments owed to seamen under maritime labor contracts.
Case Highlight: Representing a group of Bangladeshi seafarers, we obtained a court order to recover unpaid wages totaling USD 120,000 against the vessel MV Blue Wave, detained at Mongla Port.
6. Collision and Allision Cases
Ship collisions, allisions, and related damages require specialized legal expertise. TRW Law Firm handles collision matters involving multiple parties, complex liability issues, and substantial claims for vessel and cargo damage.
Notable Settlement: We successfully negotiated an out-of-court settlement in a high-profile collision dispute between MV Galaxy Pride and MV Marine Vision. The matter involved intricate jurisdictional and liability issues.
7. Charter Party Disputes
Charter party disputes often arise over freight, demurrage, detention, and cargo delivery. TRW Law Firm provides expert representation in resolving disputes through litigation, arbitration, and mediation.
Illustrative Case: Our team advised a Greek shipowner in a demurrage claim against a Bangladeshi charterer involving the delayed discharge of cargo at Mongla Port. The dispute was resolved favorably through arbitration under the London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA) rules.
8. Salvage and General Average
Salvage operations and general average claims require a thorough understanding of maritime law and international conventions. TRW Law Firm has successfully represented clients in recovering salvage dues and settling general average claims.
Example: Acting for a Malaysian insurance company, we advised on a general average claim involving the vessel MT Sea Merchant following an incident at Chattogram anchorage.
Maritime Legal Framework in Bangladesh
The Admiralty Court in Bangladesh, situated in the High Court Division of the Supreme Court, has exclusive jurisdiction over maritime disputes under the Admiralty Court Act, 2000. The key remedies available include:
- Ship Arrest and Release
- Action in Rem for Maritime Liens
- Claims for Cargo Damage, Freight, and Demurrage
- Enforcement of Mortgage Rights
- Settlement of Crew Wage Claims
- Collision and Salvage Claims
Bangladesh’s strategic location along the Bay of Bengal and its two major ports – Chattogram and Mongla – make it a significant hub for maritime trade. As trade volumes increase, the demand for efficient legal solutions in maritime disputes has grown exponentially.
TRW Law Firm’s Process and Approach
- Initial Assessment: We conduct a detailed assessment of the claim, ensuring a clear understanding of the legal and factual issues involved.
- Urgent Action: For time-sensitive matters, such as vessel arrests, we act swiftly to secure court orders and protect our clients’ interests.
- Negotiation and Settlement: Where possible, we negotiate settlements to resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Litigation and Arbitration: Our team is well-versed in pursuing claims through court litigation and international arbitration forums such as the LMAA and SCMA.
- Enforcement: We assist in enforcing judgments and arbitral awards, ensuring our clients achieve tangible results.
Why Choose TRW Law Firm?
- Proven Expertise: Decades of experience in handling complex maritime disputes with a high success rate.
- Strategic Approach: A combination of swift legal action, negotiation, and litigation to achieve the best outcomes.
- Global Reach: Strong working relationships with international law firms, P&I Clubs, and insurers.
- Client-Centric Service: Personalized attention and tailored solutions for each client.
- Efficiency: Prompt and effective legal support in time-sensitive maritime matters.
Summary Table: TRW Law Firm’s Admiralty and Maritime Expertise
| Practice Area | Key Services | Recent Success |
|---|---|---|
| Ship Arrest and Release | Vessel detention and release orders | Secured release of MV Sea Venture at Chattogram |
| Cargo Damage and Shortfall | Cargo claims, shortfall, and damage recovery | Compensation of USD 500,000 for bulk grain damage |
| Bunker Supply Disputes | Recovery of bunker dues and supply disputes | Settled claims for bunker supplier Global Marine |
| Mortgage and Financing Claims | Enforcing mortgage rights and vessel finance | Recovered mortgage dues for National Bank Ltd. |
| Crew Wage Claims | Wage recovery for seafarers and crew members | USD 120,000 recovered for MV Blue Wave crew |
| Collision and Allision Claims | Liability disputes and damage claims | Out-of-court settlement in MV Galaxy Pride case |
| Charter Party Disputes | Freight, demurrage, and detention claims | Demurrage claim resolved under LMAA arbitration |
| Salvage and General Average | Recovery of salvage dues and general average | Advised on general average for MT Sea Merchant |
Conclusion
TRW Law Firm stands as a beacon of excellence in Admiralty and Maritime Dispute Resolution in Bangladesh. Our deep understanding of maritime law, combined with a strategic and client-centric approach, ensures the successful resolution of complex disputes for our local and international clients. Whether navigating ship arrests, resolving cargo claims, or addressing financing disputes, TRW Law Firm delivers unparalleled legal expertise and results.