This case study examines a complex maritime claim involving cargo contaminated with iron particles, discovered weeks after delivery without formal carrier protest. Initially perceived as irrecoverable due to lack of immediate damage detection and clean loading certificates, the case was revitalised through expert analysis and strategic arbitration.
Upon arrival, the shipment of cargo presented no visible damage and subsequent testing failed to detect any contamination. The insured received and stored the goods, relying on clean official certificates of loading. Weeks later, when a portion of the cargo was delivered to a client equipped with specialised testing facilities, iron particle contamination was discovered. This delayed discovery meant that the insured could not issue timely reservations to the carriers and the potential financial loss was substantial.
An expert team was engaged to investigate the source of the contamination and successfully proved that the cargo had been contaminated within the ship’s holds, which were deemed unsuitable for such cargo. Strategically, arbitration was filed in the French maritime court, leveraging the defendants’ location and mitigating potential limitations of liability in other jurisdictions.
 The expert’s findings formed the cornerstone of the arbitration claim, establishing the carriers’ liability. The French maritime court proceedings allowed for a focused legal strategy, circumventing potential jurisdictional challenges.
 The primary challenge was overcoming the initial perception of a near-impossible recovery, given the lack of immediate damage detection and the clean loading certificates. Proving carrier liability required navigating complex maritime law and technical evidence. Managing the substantial costs associated with arbitration was also critical. Maintaining client confidence throughout the intricate legal process, especially with the opposing side’s lack of cooperation, was paramount.
 A full award, including costs, was secured within 18 months, an exceptionally short timeframe for such a complex maritime case. The successful outcome demonstrated the effectiveness of strategic arbitration, expert analysis, and financial backing in overcoming significant obstacles. This case underscores the ability to find value in seemingly lost situations by leveraging specialized expertise and a robust global legal network.
