Top 10 Influential Greek Lawyers Driving International Shipping Finance Sector

Shipping finance, a unique combination of maritime expertise and financial acumen, is a vital cog in the machinery that propels global commerce. It entails the intricate financing of ship acquisitions through loans, as well as transactions relating to debt restructuring, lease agreements, financial instruments issuance, and more. Notably, Greece has long been a hub of maritime activity, boasting some of the most accomplished lawyers in the shipping finance realm. This article turns the spotlight on these distinguished professionals from leading international firms.

The Greek shipping industry’s pivot to a more modern, sustainable, and efficient future is being shaped by rapid innovations in financial models and a rising tide of legal complexity. This has brought the prowess and proficiency of Greek lawyers in shipping finance into sharp focus, as their contribution becomes critical in navigating the sector’s evolving landscapes.

From advising major shipping groups and lenders on debt restructurings and refinancing, to assisting with ship acquisition finance mandates, shipping: finance lawyers in Greece play crucial roles. Here are some of the key figures in the Greek shipping finance landscape, telling a story of exceptional talent, deep insights, and invaluable contribution to a vital global industry.

Dimitri Sofianopoulos

Representing Norton Rose Fulbright, Dimitri Sofianopoulos offers counsel on complex and high-value transactional matters from Greece and Monaco. His wealth of experience and profound legal insights make him a reliable advisor in a fast-paced and rapidly evolving industry.

Nigel Bowen-Morris

Operating out of Piraeus, Nigel Bowen-Morris is a member of Stephenson Harwood LLP. Known for his robust global shipping practice, Bowen-Morris is frequently called upon to handle significant financing matters.

George Paleokrassas

George Paleokrassas, a key player in Watson Farley & Williams (New York) LLP, provides invaluable counsel to major shipping groups and lenders. His key focus areas include debt restructurings, refinancings, loans, sale and leaseback transactions, and acquisitions.

Vanessa Tzoannos

At Hill Dickinson, Vanessa Tzoannos excels in shipping sector transactions. Being dual-qualified in Greece and the Marshall Islands, she routinely assists banks and ship owners with loan agreements.

Yianni Cheilas

A trusted advisor in Norton Rose Fulbright, Yianni Cheilas demonstrates particular mastery in ship financing transactions. With qualifications from Greece, the US, and England and Wales, he is often the preferred choice for national and international banks and corporates.

Jasel Chauhan

Head of the international finance department in Hill Dickinson, Jasel Chauhan is adept at assisting lenders and ship owners with vessel acquisition finance mandates, sale and purchase of ship assets, leaseback proceedings, debt refinancing deals and loan transactions.

Vassiliki Georgopoulos

Vassiliki Georgopoulos, representing Watson Farley & Williams, is renowned for her experience in shipping finance. She handles a wide array of transactions including bond issuances, sale and leaseback transactions, and loan agreements.

Evi Platsidaki

Evi Platsidaki, attached to Norton Rose Fulbright, is a rising star who offers sound advice to international lenders on new loan facilities and refinancing mandates.

Alexandros Damianidis

At Watson Farley & Williams, Alexandros Damianidis is excellently positioned to give counsel on commercial shipping matters. His portfolio includes advising on vessel acquisition financing, debt refinancing, and provision of corporate loans to shipping companies.

Alexia Hatzimichalis

Alexia Hatzimichalis, a member of Watson Farley & Williams, consistently impresses with her knack for handling shipbuilding contracts and sustainable financing agreements. She also brings valuable experience in sale and leaseback transactions.

The work of these lawyers forms the backbone of the Greek shipping finance industry, transforming how funds are raised, invested, monitored, and allocated within this vital sector. They are the silent heroes who guide, negotiate, and facilitate the complex processes that keep the wheels of international commerce spinning.