The maritime group at K&L Gates remains a strong choice for clients regarding policy and regulatory matters. In particular, the group excels in advising on US oil spill cases and APPS investigations. Other areas of expertise include vessel flagging, international trade, commercial disputes, and bilateral investment treaties. Advising on vessel documentation and citizenship, Michael Scanlon in Washington DC is well-versed in acting before federal agencies, the U.S. Congress, and federal courts. Also in DC, Mark Ruge specializes in federal government matters, representing clients on policy matters before Congress and federal agencies. Scanion and Ruge lead the team alongside London-based Clare Kempkens. For environmental compliance matters and Department of Justice investigations, George Kontakis in New York is a key contact. Frequently engaged in matters involving cargo vessel operators, Elle Stuart in DC, also has experience advising on emergency preparedness and response. Houston’s Hilary Soileau is a notable name in energy project matters. New York-based Tanner Honea joined from Freehill Hogan & Mahar LLP in November 2025. Jeffrey King retired in October 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The K&L Gates team has a deep understanding of the maritime industry and an exceptional, collaborative approach. They work seamlessly with clients to address both contentious and complex regulatory matters in a practical and results-driven way.
- The individuals I work with understand fisheries-related regulatory matters and provide excellent regulatory counseling. The lawyers have an exceptional grasp of the law, and they provide clear, practical advice in high-stakes matters.
Key clients
- Mediterranean Shipping Company SA
- Marathon Blue Water Holdings LLC
- American Maritime Partnership
- Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Ltd
- American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier Group
- Transportation Institute
- Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd. (“MOL”)
- Matson, Inc.
- Institute of International Container Lessors
- Lake Carriers’ Association
- American Seafoods
- American Bureau of Shipping
- Consortium of State Maritime Academies
- Woodside Energy (LA) Opco, LLC
Work highlights
Represented Mediterranean Shipping Company SA, one of the largest global shipping companies, before the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission regarding issues under the U.S. Shipping Act.
Negotiated amendments related to Maritime Administration Title XI Loan Guarantee financing documents with the Maritime Administration and handled the closing of the modification for client Marathon Blue Water Holdings LLC.
Represented the American Maritime Partnership in a variety of matters, including advocating for the cabotage laws of the United States, as well as legislative and administrative measures to strengthen the enforcement of those laws.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
George Kontakis
Tanner Honea
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Elle Stuart
Practice head
Clare Kempkens; Michael Scanlon; Mark Ruge
Other key lawyers
George Kontakis; Elle Stuart; Hilary Soileau; Tanner Honea