Thomas More Chambers

Matthew’s practice encompasses a range of specialist legal areas, from maritime contractual and employment issues to commercial litigation. Additionally, he offers maritime operational compliance advice, covering areas such as ISM, ISPS, MLC, and more.

Accustomed to working at the highest standards of professionalism and excellence for the world’s most exacting individuals, Matthew is adept at advising and representing clients in court or arbitration proceedings, as well as acting as an arbitrator.

Matthew accepts appointments as either arbitrator or mediator, having been previously appointed to assist with high-value disputes in both roles, particularly relating to his Maritime background and specialist knowledge.

Matthew’s main practice areas are:

Maritime:

• Salvage rights and collision disputes.
• Charter party disputes
• Refit and new-build disputes
• Transactional disputes
• Dispute resolution, including arbitration.

Commercial and Consumer Contract:

• Consumer and commercial contracts (including shipyard and yacht management)
• Refit contracts
• Sales of Goods and Consumer Rights
• Claims under the Consumer Credit Act

Landlord, Tenant and ASB:

• Possession/eviction proceedings
• TOLATA claims
• Disrepair claims
• Closure orders
• ASB Injunctions

Employment Law:

• Constructive or unfair dismissal
• Crewing issues relating to jurisdiction
• Allegations of bullying or harassment
• Health & Safety concerns
• Discrimination
• Whistleblowing
• Redundancy

Notable Work & Cases:

Non-contentious work:

Matthew has drafted comprehensive contractual agreements specifically addressing the practical and legal complexities unique to the maritime sector. Drafting clear and enforceable arrangements between owners, managers, and third parties, with full regard to international regulatory frameworks, including ISM, ISPS, and data protection obligations under the UK/EU GDPR.
This work reflects Matthew’s broader expertise in commercial and regulatory matters within the maritime industries, and ensuring clients are equipped with robust and industry-appropriate legal documentation.

Contentious work:

• Shipyard v Yacht Owner – Was appointed as an arbitrator by a respondent in a high-value dispute concerning a yacht refit, seated in a non-UK common law jurisdiction. The matter involved complex technical issues relating to the standard of workmanship and compliance with the MYBA standard form contract terms. The arbitration proceeded to a full hearing, resulting in a determination of split liability. The respondent benefited from Matthew’s extensive expertise in shipbuilding and shipyard operations.
• SE v Large Yacht Management – Advised a crew member in relation to a claim for wrongful and unfair dismissal under English law. The matter was resolved by settlement prior to a scheduled Tribunal hearing.
• Advised the owner of a large yacht on their legal rights and obligations under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and the applicable Seafarer’s Employment Agreement (SEA), following an incident involving serious injury to a senior crew member. The owner implemented the advice in its entirety.
• Captain v Yacht Yard – Acted for a captain in relation to a personal injury claim arising from a serious injury caused by a defective deck hatch whilst cruising in the Bahamas. The vessel was still under warranty by the builder. The matter, governed by English law, was resolved by settlement.
• A v UK Banks [2021–2023] – Successfully represented multiple private individuals in separate cases in small claims and fast track proceedings against major UK banks. Claims were brought under section 140 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974, relating to the recovery of sums arising from undisclosed commissions on Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) policies.