HFW is a sector-focused law firm with particular strength in aviation and shipping. The firm is well positioned to provide a full spectrum of legal services to clients in the travel sector, covering everything from employment matters to complex dispute resolution. The Travel, Cruise and Leisure team is jointly led by Claire Womersley, William MacLachlan, and Zohar Zik. Womersley is a recognised expert in ‘wet’ litigation, with a strong track record in cases involving collisions, groundings, and salvage. Zik brings deep knowledge of aviation finance, with particular expertise in aircraft leasing and structured transactions. MacLachlan, a senior partner in the transactional shipping team, is recommended for his work on the sale and purchase of vessels, as well as ship design, construction, and management matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Partner Paul Dean's travel team provides highly expert and commercially astute advice to its package tour, cruise ship, and other travel clients. The team, led by Paul Dean and Claire Wormsley, is focused on achieving the very best commercial result for its clients.’
  • ‘Paul Dean and Claire Wormsley are excellent lawyers focused on achieving the very best commercial outcome for their clients.’
  • ‘They offer a dedicated, committed service. Their long-standing partnership with us yields a detailed understanding and passion for our business.’
  • ‘They provide quick responses, show a willingness to travel at short notice, and are dedicated and committed to our business.’
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Lawyers

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Claire Womersley; William MacLachlan; Zohar Zik

Other key lawyers

Paul Dean; Alex Sayegh; Eleanor Duprez; Megan Comer; Zain Kazmi