Profile

Steve joined the firm as a trainee in 2007 and was admitted to partnership on 1 January 2018.

Steve read law at the University of Malta graduating with an LL.D. in 2008 and subsequently obtained an LL.M. in Commercial Law in 2009 from the University of Edinburgh where he studied Banking and Finance, Debt and Insolvency Law, Company Law and EC Competition Law. He submitted his dissertation on the “Application of EC Competition Rules to Public Undertakings”.

Steve is a partner and specialises in public procurement, maritime and aviation law. Steve advises entities on major ship and aviation finance transactions. Steve also advises government and private entities on major projects, including public procurement and state aid.

Professional memberships

• Interlaw
• Chamber of Advocates
• European Maritime Law Organisation (EMLO)
• European Communities Trade Mark Association (ECTA)

What others are saying

Associate to watch - Competition/European Law Chambers Europe, 2015

Associate to watch - Competition/European Law Chambers Europe, 2016

Associate to watch - Competition/European Law Chambers Europe, 2017

"A very diligent and adaptable lawyer." - Competition/European Law Chambers Europe, 2017

Associate to watch - Shipping Chambers Europe, 2017

"Flexible, responsive, approachable and hands-on." - Shipping Chambers Europe, 2017

Associate to watch - Shipping Chambers Europe, 2018

"Handling the Maltese aspect of transactions very efficiently, giving clear explanations of local law issues, and providing concise but valuable legal input on the financing documents" - Shipping Chambers Europe, 2018

Ranked lawyer - Shipping Legal500, 2018

Steve Decesare is "very helpful and goes out of his way to get jobs done."  - Shipping Chambers Europe, 2019

Ranked lawyer - Aviation Legal500, 2019

Ranked lawyer - Shipping Legal500, 2019

According to sources, Steve Decesare is "very good, very responsive and will always provide the input for the deadline." He advises clients across the broad spectrum of shipping law, including ship financing, transfer of shipping loans and mortgage matters. He also assists clients with concession claims, damage claims, unpaid bunker claims and salvage claims. - Shipping Chambers Europe, 2020

Next Generation Lawyer - Aviation Legal500, 2020

Steve Decesare garners praise from an interviewee who comments: "He applies his experience in ship financings to provide clear, consistent and practical advice," highlighting that "he manages transactions and relationships with clients very well." He acts for banks and ship owners on financing transactions, as well as assisting with vessel purchases and salvage claims. - Shipping Chambers Europe 2021