We were kept very busy last week by Hurricane Ida, a Category 4 Atlantic hurricane that became the second-most damaging and intense hurricane to strike the U.S. state of Louisiana on record (after Katrina). It resulted in the closure of the Mississippi River and various terminals, including Covent Marine Terminal (CMT) one of the largest terminals on the U.S. Gulf Coast, and the only bulk terminal in the region that provides direct rail access for ocean going shipments.
We represent a number of shipping companies and bulk commodity traders who had Vessels and cargos either stuck along the River or lost at CMT due to the hurricane. Some Vessels went aground. This has resulted in various claims involving demurrage, cargo loss, cancellation and force majeure – some of which we expect will become the subject of LMAA and LCIA Arbitrations, in due course.
Thankfully, the river and terminals have re-opened and marine traffic is getting back to normal but Ida has wreaked havoc in the area and, sadly, caused much loss of life, property damage as well as upsetting shipping and trade.
'Arbitration Advisers of the Year' 2021
Global Business Magazine
“[Iyer] has the experience to instantly recognise the problems being encountered and the professional expertise to always provide sound, concise and, most importantly, clear legal advice”
From the 'International Law Office, Client Choice Guide' while Andew Iyer was practising as a solicitor“Sharp, to the point and efficient. [Iyer] responds with electrifying speed and is always contactable”
From 'The Legal 500' while Andew Iyer was practising as a solicitor“an extraordinarily fine lawyer with the full portfolio of skills, from negotiating contracts to claims, disputes and arbitrations - he’s the whole package!”
From 'Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession' while Andrew Iyer was practising as a solicitor“[Iyer is] one of the most experienced energy lawyers that I have come across. His energy practice has a unique offshore flavour which suits our requirements”
From the 'International Law Office, Client Choice Guide' while Andrew Iyer was practising as a solicitor“Iyer has a deep understanding of international markets and an impressive track record in arbitration and commercial disputes”
From 'Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession' while Andrew Iyer was practising as a solicitorEnergy & Natural Resources Law Expert of the Year in England 2020
Leaders in Law Global Awards'Leading Arbitration Specialist UK' 2022
AI Global Excellence Awards“[Iyer is] an extraordinarily fine lawyer with the full portfolio of skills, from negotiating contracts to claims, disputes and arbitrations - he’s the whole package!”
From 'Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession' while Andrew Iyer was practising as a solicitorShipping & Trade Firm of the Year in England 2020
Global Law Experts Annual Awards“[Iyer] is very cost effective, efficient and proactive - he takes the initiative in speeding up recalcitrant opponent lawyers to the negotiating table”
From the 'International Law Office, Client Choice Guide' while Andew Iyer was practising as a solicitor“Andrew Iyer continues to glean high praise from clients”
From 'The Legal 500' while Andrew Iyer was practising as a solicitor'Shipping & Trade Firm of the Year in England' 2023
Corporate Intl Magazine Global Awards'Energy & Natural Resources Firm of the Year in England' 2023
Corporate Intl Magazine Global AwardsWinner of the International Law Office 'Client Choice Award for Energy & Natural Resources UK'
While Andrew Iyer was practising as a solicitor
