Balancing 'in-depth legal knowledge with practical, commercially focused advice', Stephenson Harwood is a popular choice among lenders, in particular, to draft loan documentation to Greek and international shipowners governed under English law. In this context, the team also benefits from access to lawyers in other key maritime offices, including London, Singapore and Hong Kong, ensuring that is able to provide a one-stop-shop service on cross-border deals. Nigel Bowen-Morris has vast experience at advising banks providing secured loans to Greek shipping companies and is noted for his 'commercially-driven and client-focused' advice. Appreciated for his 'ability to blend sound legal judgement with business acumen', Greek and UK law-qualified partner Chris Vartzis co-heads the team alongside Bowen-Morris, and as part of his wide-ranging practice has developed particular expertise advising borrowers and lenders on matters with a nexus to Turkey. At associate level, the 'approachable and reliable' Stynos Antoniades and 'hardworking and thorough' Christina Voulgaraki excel at advising on acquisition finance facilities of new-building and second-hand vessels and also regularly advise on sale and leaseback transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'They have an innovative mindset which helps the lenders and their clients meet their individual objectives in a transaction.'
- 'They balance in-depth legal knowledge with practical, commercially focused advice.'
- 'The team has a deep understanding of business and commercial realities, providing advice that is not only legally sound but also aligned with the commercial goals of their clients and us as shipping groups. Their ability to balance legal strategy with business priorities is one of their strongest assets.'
- 'They have an excellent knowledge of the market and provide a strong and cost-effective service.'
- 'Nigel Bowen-Morris is friendly, down-to-earth, commercially-driven and client-focused.'
- 'Chris Vartzis' ability to blend sound legal judgment with business acumen sets him apart from competitors.'
Key clients
- National Bank of Greece
Work highlights
Advised National Bank of Greece in connection with a $151m secured term loan agreement deal with Starbulk Carriers Corp., for the purposes of refinancing existing indebtedness and providing Starbulk Carriers Corp. with liquidity for general corporate purposes.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Chris Vartzis
Practice head
Nigel Bowen-Morris; Chris Vartzis
Other key lawyers
Georgios Kalpakidis; Stynos Antoniades; Christina Voulgaraki