Landmark cases such as Gulf Oil Corp. v. Gilbert (1947), Spiliada Maritime Corp v. Cansulex Ltd. (1987), Sinochem International Co. v. Malaysia International Shipping Corp. (2007), and M/S Bremen v. Zapata Off-Shore Co. (1972) have shaped the boundaries of forum non conveniens by defining how courts balance private and public interest factors, determine the "most appropriate forum," and exercise discretion in dismissing cases. Lawyers can learn from these judgments the importance of presenting a strong, well-supported case for the convenience of their chosen forum, arguing early on to potentially avoid dismissal, and utilizing forum selection clauses to limit the risk of forum non conveniens challenges. By studying these decisions, lawyers can refine their strategies, ensuring they focus on the most suitable forum for resolving disputes while adhering to judicial principles of fairness and efficiency.
