Charles Anderson

Charles has a wide range of experience in complex cross-border dispute resolution before the English High Court and in arbitrations under the LCIA, LMAA, SCC and SCIA rules. His expertise spans charterparty disputes, bill of lading issues, and offshore construction conflicts.

Prior to joining Stephenson Harwood, Charles worked at a specialist commercial disputes-only practice where he advised on cross border commercial and financial disputes as well as sanctions. He also spent time at US firm in London where he gained experience in the offshore construction sector in disputes relating to delay, termination of construction contracts, variation orders, and liability for design defects.

• Charterers v Owners under Time Charter – LMAA Arbitration

  • Acted for Owners in relation to a dispute arising from a crane failure on board a time-chartered container vessel, resulting in significant delay and operational disruption.
  • Charterers brought a claim under the Time Charter for off-hire and damages, alleging that the incident was caused by Owners’ failure to maintain the vessel and its cargo handling gear.
  • Owners denied Charterers’ claim, contending that the incident was caused by improper operation of the crane by Charterers’ stevedores, and counterclaimed for unpaid hire.
  • Issues included interpretation of off-hire provisions, allocation of responsibility for stevedore actions, and the burden of proof in relation to causation and maintenance obligations.
  • Extensive factual and technical evidence required, including expert analysis of crane operation, maintenance records, and causation of the incident.

• Advise relating to vessel breakdown

  • Advised Time Charterers in respect of their rights against Owners following a vessel breakdown.
  • Vessel was carrying a significant quantity of soft fruits from South America destined for the PRC, which, due to the delay, had deteriorated upon arrival.
  • Advised Time Charterers on strategy to deal with potential claims made by Cargo Interests, including advice relating to limitation in South America.
  • Advised Time Charterers in respect of customs issues and options available for dealing with fruit that was damaged/not fit for entry into PRC.
  • Liaised with local counsel in the PRC and South America.

• Advice on Acquisition of LNG Carriers

  Advised a leading global asset manager on its proposed acquisition of a world leading offshore energy infrastructure platform and owner and operator of LNG carriers.