Jonathan is a highly experienced marine and superyacht law specialist, with a broad legal practice that focuses on both the domestic and international yachting sector. His client base comprises banks and private clients in the yacht and superyacht industry. In addition, Jonathan advises marine businesses, crew and other leisure marine operators such as yacht management companies and marina owners.

Jonathan lectures regularly and is an examiner on the MCA Master Yachts course for aspiring superyacht captains. He is a regular speaker at events in the UK and overseas where he provides seminars for the British Marine Federation (BMF), the Maritime Training Academy (MTA) and the International Institute of Marine Surveyors (IIMS) and has written a number of diploma publications for the MTA and for the MCA Master Yachts course.

Prior to becoming a solicitor, Jonathan spent twelve years at sea as a navigating officer with BP Shipping and then as a submarine officer in the Royal Navy.

  • He is always available, he has a great knowledge of the marine industry and is very professional. He has an extensive understanding of domestic and international yachting.

    Chambers High Net Worth 2020

  • As a former navigating officer for the Royal Navy, Hadley-Piggin is steeped in the maritime world and, according to one source, 'his knowledge of marine and yacht law is second to none.' He is known for advising banks, owners and buyers in the superyacht sector. He also lectures around the world on the MCA Master Yachts course for aspiring superyacht captains. Peers say he 'knows his stuff inside out' and is a 'very competent and easy person to work with.'

    Chambers High Net Worth 2016

  • I have worked closely alongside Jonathan on numerous occasions over the last 5 years, including two yacht sales and 2 new yacht purchases. Simply put in every aspect I have found him highly knowledgeable, professional, courteous and organised. Therefore I would have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone.

    Captain
    M/Y Thumper 40m Sunseeker

  • Thank you for your expert care and attention, it is refreshing to work with a solicitor who speaks plain English and can translate this into an effective legal document that I can now use to expand my business further both here in the UK and internationally. The patient manner in which you answered all my questions and then revised the Agreement to reflect my wishes and needs was also greatly appreciated.

    Alex Grabau
    Full Member ABYA Yacht Broker

  • Jonathan Hadley-Piggin of Keystone Law recently assisted us in the purchase of a new build Riva motor yacht. He also assisted the buyer in relation to crewing and flagging. We were impressed with Jonathan’s knowledge of the yachting market – a new venture for us, and his clear constructive advice which was invaluable, especially when dealing with numerous entities during the build and delivery process. We would have no hesitation in using his services again.

    John Maher
    Maroon Capital Limited

  • From day one of the appointment Jonathan drove the deal forward effectively, with outstanding response times to all parties. He is very knowledgeable in marine law which assisted greatly in what transpired to be a non-standard finance arrangement. Jonathan is both professional and approachable and we would highly recommend his services to others.

    Lynsey Smith
    Director, Browne Craine

  • Jonathan is a highly qualified professional, very responsive with a positive attitude to overcome obstacles. Jonathan’s experience and knowledge of the yachting sector provides you with a sense of peace and confidence that you are working with a highly regarded and trusted specialist. I would have no hesitation in recommending Jonathan to anyone.

    James Porter
    Director, Business Development
    LJ Fiduciary