International legal practice with a Ukrainian foundation

Freight, Hire and Off-Hire Disputes

Advice and representation in freight, hire and off-hire disputes across shipping operations

Freight, hire and off-hire disputes are among the most common payment-related disputes in shipping. They usually arise out of charterparty performance and may concern whether sums have become due, whether deductions are justified, whether a vessel remained on-hire or off-hire, and how contractual payment obligations should be interpreted in the factual context of the voyage or employment.

These matters often require close analysis of the charter terms, notices, performance records, statements of facts, vessel logs, correspondence and the actual sequence of operational events. In many cases, the dispute is shaped not only by the wording of the contract, but also by the commercial background of the fixture and the practical realities of vessel employment.

Our lawyers assist clients in disputes concerning freight, hire, off-hire and related payment issues under voyage charters, time charters and other shipping arrangements. We advise on the merits of claims and defences, assist in negotiations and pre-arbitration correspondence, and help clients assess whether the matter can be resolved commercially without formal proceedings. Where necessary, we also represent clients in arbitration, litigation and related processes, combining legal analysis with a practical understanding of shipping operations and charterparty performance.

Our Approach

Deep knowledge of law and the industry

Rabomizo works with the norms of international maritime law and national maritime codes of various jurisdictions, grounded in a deep understanding of shipping operations and the commercial realities of the industry.

Experience in dispute resolution in international jurisdictions

We have represented clients in London, Greece, Turkey, Ukraine, Switzerland, Oman and other jurisdictions.

Rapid response in crisis situations

We promptly engage in communication with the parties involved, prepare well-grounded responses and develop a defence and negotiation strategy at any stage of the process.

Understanding of shipping operations

Our solutions take into account not only legal aspects but also the practical side of a shipowner’s or operator’s business. Clients do not need to spend time explaining – we understand the complexity of maritime processes and provide full support.

About us

Rabomizo law firm advises businesses engaged in transport and international trade, operating where assets, goods and services are crossing borders and changing the legal regimes. We support our clients in structuring solid business agreements, managing the risks and making decisions within complex multi-jurisdictional frameworks.

If the claims, delays, sanctions, restrictions, or disputes arise, we develop and implement a legal strategy, representing clients across the jurisdictions and legal systems. Our work combines sector knowledge with a clear understanding of the international regulatory environment.

We do not propose standardised solutions. We analyse the risks, assess the legal and commercial exposure, and provide clear, commercially grounded advice in cross-border matters.

Rapid response

Full transparency in collaboration

Minimisation of financial and reputational risks

Clear and predictable legal strategy

Our team

Leading Experts

nadiya-isikova2

Nadiya Isikova

Partner, Advocate, Solicitor
Denys Rabomizo

Denys Rabomizo

Partner, Advocate
Valentyna

Valentyna Babak

Managing Director, Advocate
Berezovskiy3

Vasyl Berezovskyi

Counsel & Master Mariner
Dr. Nataliia Hendel (600x800)

Dr. Nataliia Hendel

Counsel
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Freight, Hire and Off-Hire Disputes

How can we help

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