Reputed for its marine and shipping work, Weightmans LLP fields a genuinely multi-modal transport and logistics practice, with particular strength in marine disputes and road transport regulatory work, alongside insurer-backed fleet litigation. The team frequently represents P&I clubs and insurers, shipowners and port operators, and freight and logistics businesses. Leading the team in Liverpool is marine specialist Mike Burns.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- Once we identified that we had a challenge which Weightmans could help with, they instantly jumped into a supportive role. No judgments, no interrogation, and no pushing to get our business. They instantly listened to the situation, asked the right questions, and constructively relayed back to us what the actual issues were. I didn't feel like I was working with some solicitors; I felt like I was working with some colleagues who were genuinely interested in giving me and the business the support we needed.
- Sarah Jennings, Elliot Kenton, and James Harvey were all very helpful. In particular, Sarah was on the end of the phone when required and was also very professional in her approach to receiving and pushing for information from any executive members within the organization. She kept me calm, kept us all in line, and was there to be the supportive professional we needed.
- Mike Burns is quick to highlight the relevant issues and to address how to resolve them in a pragmatic manner. He is very client and solution-focused in his work.
- In Mike Burns, we are fortunate to have someone with strong connections, excellent knowledge and understanding, and a true partnership ethic. He will offer sound, honest advice, good or bad, and guide us to the best outcome.
- Full of knowledge, the team I deal with at Weightmans is always on hand to answer any technical or legal questions I may have at any time. Their advice has been critical on several matters that have had favorable outcomes of late.
- Mike Burns, partner, Shipping/Marine, has a high level of industry knowledge and expertise coupled with technical proficiency. Mike takes the time to understand his clients' business and the key commercial drivers that underpin maritime litigation issues.
Key clients
- Enterprise Rent a Car
- BG Freight Line BV
- Allianz Ireland
- Gard P&I (London)
- Champion Tankers AS, Norway
- Port of Sheerness Limited
Work highlights
Representing BG Freight Line BV in a transaction involving the purchase of the vessels, their re-sale to a new operator, and charter back on long term time charter contracts to BG.
Acted for Champion Tankers (Norwegian products tanker operators) in a charterparty dispute, where the vessel was due to be delivered under a voyage charterparty for the carriage of cargo from China to Australia.
Practice head
Mike Burns