John Seow started his career as a marine engineer, sailing with the then national carrier, Neptune Orient Lines, onboard their freedom-class vessels.  He also spent some years as an engineer on shore in the Oil & Gas Industry before deciding to pursue a career in law.  John was called to the English Bar as a barrister by the Middle Temple in 1995 (non-practising).

John’s engineering background provides him with a distinct competence when dealing with briefs that are highly technical in nature.

John’s areas of specialisation include shipping and international trade law. His experience in shipping matters includes wet work such as collision and salvage, ship repair and construction, engine related claims, marine insurance matters and carriage/charterparty disputes. He also has extensive experience in offshore mining/production facilities and its related services such as the expertise, equipment and operational support necessary for the industry and advising/litigating disputes when things do not go as planned.  His background in engineering provides him with a unique competence to take on briefs of a highly technical nature.  As such, he has a particular interest and expertise in wet shipping work.

John also has a vibrant practice with extensive experience in advisory and advocacy work in commercial litigation and arbitration. In particular, he has advised and appeared as counsel in sale of goods disputes covering commodities such as oil, coal, iron ore and grains as well as trade finance matters.

John regularly represents international oil and commodities traders, shipyards, Japanese MNCs, shipowners, charterers and P&I Clubs as well as some of the world’s leading and preeminent oil and gas and oilfield support service companies.

In addition to his work as counsel, John has been appointed as arbitrator across a range of institutional and ad hoc cases.