Our Forensic Methodology

Beyond Observation. Towards Evidence.

Forensic Methodology

In maritime casualty investigation, the difference between observation and conclusion can mean millions in disputed claims. At KORSO MARITIME, our forensic methodology bridges that gap through scientific rigor, evidence-based analysis, and defensible conclusions.

Every assignment follows a structured six-step approach designed to establish causation, quantify loss, and determine responsibility with accuracy that withstands legal scrutiny.

1 Pre-Investigation Preparation & Documentary Review

Every investigation begins before we arrive on site. We establish the complete contractual and technical framework through meticulous documentary analysis:

  • Contractual Analysis: Bills of Lading, invoices, and Charter Parties to identify risk allocation and potential liabilities
  • Operational Data Review: Deck & Engine Logs, Sea Passages, and Statements of Facts (SOF) to reconstruct the event timeline
  • Technical Compliance: Examination of class certificates, statutory documentation, and applicable standards (IACS, ISO, LOLER 1998)

2 On-Site Investigation & Physical Evidence Collection

Field investigations emphasize direct observation, traceability, and evidentiary integrity for litigation readiness:

  • Comprehensive Visual Inspections: Detailed assessment of vessels, containers, port equipment, and cargo
  • Systematic Documentation: High-standard photographic records suitable for recovery actions and court proceedings
  • Standardized Protocols: Technical checklists ensuring consistency and repeatability across all investigations

3 Scientific Interpretation & Incident Reconstruction

Where descriptive reporting ends, forensic synthesis begins. We reconstruct the causal chain of events by integrating physical evidence with scientific principles:

  • Incident Reconstruction: Synthesizing physical findings and operational data to determine the precise sequence of events and identify root cause
  • Technical Interpretation: Critical analysis of NDT results or external laboratory reports (conducted under our sampling protocols) to confirm or reject causal hypotheses
  • Chain of Causation: Establishing clear, defensible links between actions, failures, and consequences

4 Technical Modelling & Scenario Validation

We don't just apply formulas — we reconstruct reality through adaptable scientific modelling.

Any physical event — whether impact, corrosion, contamination, structural failure, or system malfunction — obeys fundamental laws of physics, chemistry, and materials science. Our expertise lies in selecting and applying the appropriate scientific principles to build a causal model that fits the unique evidence of each case.

We are methodology-agnostic: we use the right tool for the right problem. We model what needs to be modelled:

  • Mechanical phenomena — impact forces, stress analysis, deformation, fatigue failure
  • Fluid behavior — leakage rates, pressure loss, stability, free surface effects
  • Chemical & electrochemical processes — corrosion mechanisms, contamination spread, material degradation
  • Thermal & energy transfer — overheating, thermal expansion, heat conduction, fire dynamics
  • Electrical & control systems — short circuits, signal integrity, insulation breakdown
  • Operational reconstruction — event sequencing, timeline analysis, human response intervals

This adaptability ensures our conclusions are not constrained by predetermined checklists, but are built on a solid scientific foundation tailored to the unique circumstances of each investigation.

5 Witness Accounts & Cross-Verification

Human factors are addressed through structured interviews, with statements rigorously cross-referenced against physical evidence:

  • Key Personnel Interviews: Masters, Chief Engineers, terminal representatives, and operational staff
  • Cross-Correlation Analysis: Comparing statements with physical damage patterns to identify discrepancies and inconsistencies
  • Credibility Assessment: Limiting reliance on unverified assertions through evidence-based validation

6 Forensic Synthesis & Actionable Conclusions

Each assignment concludes with a structured synthesis designed to support informed decision-making and defensible positions:

  • Loss Quantification: Material and financial losses based on verifiable data and industry standards
  • Objective Assessment: Confirming failures or dismissing unfounded allegations based on conclusive evidence
  • Risk Mitigation Strategies: Recommendations for repair methods and operational adjustments aligned with maritime best practice
  • Litigation Support: Defensible conclusions suitable for arbitration, mediation, or court proceedings

Methodological Principles

Impartiality | Scientific Rigor
Evidence-Based Conclusions | Traceability

READY FOR STRUCTURED FORENSIC INVESTIGATION?

Discover how our six-step methodology delivers scientifically defensible conclusions for complex maritime casualties.

CONTACT OUR FORENSIC TEAM