International law firm Reed Smith has announced the appointment of Jeb Clulow as partner in its shipping group in London. Jeb joins the firm on 1st November from Barlow Lyde & Gilbert where he was a partner in the firm's marine energy and trade group. He joins together with senior associate, Lyall Hickson.

Jeb specialises in shipping and trade disputes for owners, charterers, traders and their insurers. He has particular experience in dry shipping litigation, complex bill of lading, charterparty, derivatives (freight and commodities), marine casualty and sale contract disputes.

Jeb works with some of the leading P&I clubs including Steamship Mutual, UK Club and Swedish Club.

Representative matters include acting for:
* Owners and their insurers in a claim against charterers for liabilities arising out of a major pollution incident in California
* ISDA form disputes arising out of the collapse of Lehman Bros; major dispute concerning redelivery condition of semi-submersible drilling platform; claim in relation to invalid nomination of vessel under sale contract
* Owners and charterers in respect of cargo claims and related charterparty indemnity claims
* Charterers and their insurers in respect of all issues arising out of a container ship fire off Luanda

Nick Shaw, partner and head of Reed Smith's global shipping group, commented: "Our aim is to be the premier global shipping practice and we are continually looking for new talent to achieve our goal. Jeb and Lyall are dynamic, well liked and respected players in our industry and their arrival will enhance our practice.

"Also, both reflecting the international feel to the group, Jeb qualified originally in South Africa and Lyall in Australia."

Jeb added: "My practice fits extremely well with Reed Smith's shipping group clients. Reed Smith has an excellent reputation with owners, charterers and their P&I Clubs and is routinely instructed in some of the most high profile international shipping disputes. I look forward to joining the team."