The transport, logistics and shipping practice group at Garrigues frequently advises P&I clubs, underwriters, shipping companies and shipyards on a wide range of matters, from collision, salvage and cargo claims to environmental liability issues and ship arrests. The team also has strong capabilities in vessel financing, registration and sales, along with insurance and reinsurance work. The practice is headed by Jesús Barbadillo, who specialises in regulatory shipping law matters, litigation and arbitration. Also noted are litigator María Cózar and Manuel Betancor, who is based in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and specialises in transport, logistics and shipping matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Garrigues is a law firm defined by its specialisation and the breadth of that specialisation. Within the same model, you can find top-level specialists in maritime law, tax law, commercial law, or any other branch of law. This service model allows you to address issues from different areas of law in a single meeting and obtain advice and solutions quickly and effectively.’
- ‘They stand out for their combination of technical expertise, tactical agility, and business acumen. What truly sets them apart is their ability to handle complex litigation matters with a comprehensive understanding of the maritime and logistics sector, while remaining mindful of the client's operational and commercial context. The team has a proven track record in areas such as charter parties, bill of lading issues, cargo damage claims, warranty enforcement, and more.'
- 'Their willingness to work closely and in coordination with internal legal, operations, and insurance departments is also noteworthy. In our experience, they compare very favorably with teams from other firms, especially those that maintain a more rigid or detached approach, combining rigour with flexibility and a close relationship with the client.’
- ‘The differentiating factor of this team lies in its practical approach to conflict and its ability to anticipate scenarios with commercial impact. In maritime matters, this approach is essential. Few firms can specialise in this sector, and the Garrigues transport team, led by Jesús Barbadillo, has demonstrated a deep understanding of maritime operations and the realities of the logistics and port sector. We would highlight not only their extensive experience in litigation, but also their technical knowledge of substantive maritime law, their strategic orientation, and, above all, their approachable and transparent manner.’
- ‘This is a highly experienced team with a proactive approach to resolving even the most complex issues. Furthermore, they facilitate client relations and greatly simplify bureaucratic processes.’
- ‘Primarily, technical knowledge of the area in question. Jesús Barbadillo has extensive experience and, in fact, even participated in drafting regulations for the sector.’
- ‘Jesús Barbadillo – despite being a highly respected and renowned lawyer, he has the ability to simplify complex matters. In our case, we have assisted Spanish clients with matters concerning subjects of English law, and it is always a great help to have Jesús's support in conveying our perspectives to the clients.’
- ‘The team is fully committed and consists of different specialists for any kind of detail of the whole case. This brings the best possible result out of the teamwork and in favour of the client. Best base for winning a case!’
- ‘Always accurate and perfectly responsive.’
- ‘Jesús Barbadillo - outstanding personal treatment and involvement, closeness.’
Key clients
- Gestora de Carteras de Inversiones AAA, S.L.
- Vatton Design
- Hermes Logística, S.A.
- AML (Africa Morocco Link)
- Pevasa (Pesquería Vasco-Montañesa, S.A.)
- Samca Group
- Naviera Armas y Compañía Trasmediterránea
- Naviera de Galicia, S.A.
- IMG Group: Sercomisa, Trasmapi and Formentera Cargo
- ASECOB
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Jesús Barbadillo
Other key lawyers
María Cózar; Manuel Betancor; Zulay Rodríguez
