LegalGELegalGE
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Port Operations

What agreements are needed for terminal operations?

Terminal operators typically require a concession or lease agreement with the port authority, detailing infrastructure use, investment obligations, and operational standards.

Who is liable for damage to port infrastructure?

If a vessel damages a berth or crane, the shipowner is usually liable. We assist ports in arresting the vessel to secure compensation for repairs and losses.

Do you draft stevedoring contracts?

Yes, we draft comprehensive stevedoring agreements defining liability limits, service rates, and operational terms between the port/terminal and cargo owners or lines.

How are environmental disputes handled?

Port pollution incidents face strict fines. We provide legal defense against environmental claims and assist in compliance with Georgian and international MARPOL regulations.

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2 min

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Legal support for port operations is critical for the smooth functioning of maritime infrastructure. Ports are complex organisms where state regulations, commercial interests, environmental standards, and labor relations intersect. This service covers the legal needs of port authorities, terminal operators, stevedoring companies, and port agents. Specialists ensure the preparation of concession agreements, tariff regulation consulting, drafting of port rules, and dispute resolution with shipowners or cargo owners. In Georgia, where ports (Poti, Batumi, Kulevi) are economic arteries, qualified legal service ensures uninterrupted cargo turnover and risk minimization.

What Does Port Operations Service Cover?

Legal.ge lawyers offer:

  • Terminal Operating Agreements: Contracts between the port and terminal operator for infrastructure management.
  • Stevedoring Services: Legal audit and drafting of loading/unloading contracts.
  • Port Rules & Regulations: Drafting internal bylaws on safety and operations.
  • Environmental Compliance: Issues of pollution prevention in port waters and challenging fines.
  • Infrastructure Projects: Legal support for berth construction and dredging works.

Real-World Scenarios Where You Need This Service

Lawyer involvement in port operations is essential when:

  • Terminal Lease: A logistics company leases a berth and needs to sign a concession agreement.
  • Damaged Infrastructure: A ship collided with a berth during maneuvering. A claim for damages must be filed against the shipowner.
  • Dangerous Goods: Hazardous chemical cargo arrives at the port, requiring special permits and safety measures.
  • Labor Disputes: Docker strikes or disputes over working conditions.

Georgian Legal Framework and Regulations

The field is regulated by the Maritime Code of Georgia, the Law on Maritime Space, and international conventions (e.g., ISPS Code - on port security). The Department of Environmental Supervision and the Maritime Transport Agency impose strict standards, violations of which lead to substantial fines.

Service Process Step-by-Step

The process involves:

  1. Audit: Checking compliance of port or terminal activities with regulations.
  2. Documentation: Developing standard operating agreements and rules.
  3. Negotiation: Agreeing terms with clients (lines, forwarders).
  4. Dispute Management: Operational response to incidents and claims.

Why Choose Legal.ge?

Port operations require not only legal but also technical and logistical knowledge. Legal.ge gives you access to specialists who understand the specifics of port work and can protect your commercial interests in a complex maritime environment.

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Specialists for this service

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