CML Port Side EOT Student Alumni Dinner, “Maritime law as a passion, as a practice and as a business”

CML was pleased to have one of its Advisory Board members, Mr Daryll Ng, a partner at Virtus Law and Managing Partner of the Stephenson Harwood Singapore office, giving a speech on ‘Maritime law as a passion, as a practice and as a business’ at the end-of-term event.

Mr Ng shared his career journey in maritime law, starting at Hardcastle and Partners, progressing to larger firms like Allen & Gledhill, and ultimately founding his own firm, Virtus Law. He described the evolution from being a law student to a managing partner, emphasising the transition from technical legal work to understanding law as a business. Mr Ng highlighted the challenges of balancing firm culture, financial management, and international collaborations. He discussed the importance of adaptability, learning business operations, and maintaining strong relationships in the legal profession. Maritime law, he noted, is inherently international, requiring lawyers to think beyond local jurisdictions and work across time zones. He advised the students to remain open to career shifts and embrace opportunities beyond traditional legal practice. The speech also covered practical experience such as handling ship arrests, arbitration, and managing clients’ non-maritime legal needs. The presentation concluded with a question-and-answer session.

CML Port Side is an initiative to provide opportunities for students and young alumni members to engage with the local maritime law community and, by doing so, increase the visibility of the career opportunities that this industry has to offer.