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Fees
Clear fees, agreed in writing before we start.
A free first review, then a fee structure matched to the matter: linked to results, fixed for defined work, or a retainer for a regular flow of claims.
Our principle
You should know the cost before you commit.
Every engagement starts with a free, confidential review. Only then do we propose a fee, and only once you have agreed it in writing do we begin work.
We aim to align our fee with the value we create for you: money recovered, or liabilities reduced. Where a matter is not worth pursuing, we will tell you so at the review stage, at no cost.
Three ways to work with us
Choose the structure that fits.
Most requested
Success fee
Linked to the result
An agreed percentage of what we recover for you, or of the amount we save when we defend a claim.
- Aligned with your outcome
- Suited to single claims and debts
- Rate fixed in writing in advance
Defined work
Fixed fee
A price agreed up front
For clearly scoped tasks: a demurrage submission, a claim review, a response to a demand, or a settlement agreement.
- Full cost certainty
- Fast turnaround
- Can be combined with a lower success fee
Ongoing support
Retainer
Your outsourced claims desk
A monthly arrangement for shipping companies, traders and exporters with a regular flow of claims or receivables.
- Priority handling, 24/7
- Portfolio reporting
- Predictable monthly cost
Side by side
How the models compare.
General guidance only. The exact terms for your matter are set out in your engagement letter, which always takes precedence.
| Success fee | Fixed fee | Retainer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best suited to | Single debts and claims; defending overstated demands | Defined tasks with a clear scope | Regular claims or receivables |
| How it is calculated | Agreed percentage of the amount recovered or saved | One agreed price for the task | Agreed monthly amount, scope defined |
| Typical matters | Unpaid invoices, demurrage, hire and freight, disputed supplier demands | Demurrage submissions, claim reviews, responses to demands, settlement documents | Charter portfolios, export receivables, recurring supplier disputes |
| Cost certainty | Fee only arises from results (any fixed elements agreed in advance) | Complete | Complete for the agreed scope |
| Third-party costs | Only with your approval | Only with your approval | Only with your approval |
What shapes the fee
Factors we take into account.
We price each matter on its own facts, so that the fee is proportionate to the work and the value at stake.
- Amount at stake and how much of it is genuinely disputed
- Age of the debt and the history of correspondence
- Jurisdiction of the counterparty and the governing law of the contract
- Quality of documents and evidence already available
- Counterparty position, including solvency and assets
- Urgency, such as an approaching time bar or cargo held at port
FAQ
Questions about fees.
If your question is not answered here, ask us. We are happy to explain any part of our terms.
Is the initial review really free?
Yes. The first review of your documents is free, confidential and without obligation. You receive our view on merits, quantum and the best route before you decide anything.
What is a success fee based on?
An agreed percentage of the amount actually recovered for you or, when we defend a claim, of the amount saved against what was demanded. The percentage reflects the size, age and complexity of the matter and is fixed in writing before we start.
Are there any other costs?
Third-party costs, such as solicitors, surveyors, fuel testing laboratories, translators or local agents, are only incurred with your prior approval and are set out separately. We do not add surprise charges.
Which fee model is best for us?
It depends on the matter. A success fee aligns our interests with yours on a single claim; a fixed fee suits defined work such as a demurrage submission or a response to a demand; a retainer suits businesses with a regular flow of claims. We recommend one after the free review.
Can the models be combined?
Yes. A reduced fixed fee for preparation combined with a lower success fee is common for larger or more complex matters.
Do we pay you if nothing is recovered?
Under a pure success-fee engagement, the fee is payable on amounts recovered or saved. Any fixed elements or approved third-party costs are agreed separately in writing in advance, so you know your exposure before we begin.
Free case review
Find out what your matter is worth.
Send us the documents. The first review is free, and you will know the proposed fee before you decide anything.