Best Admiralty & Maritime Lawyers in Honolulu

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Cox Wootton Lerner Griffin Hansen & Poulos LLP

Cox Wootton Lerner Griffin Hansen & Poulos LLP

Honolulu, United States

Founded in 1997
24 people in their team
ValueOur San Francisco lawyers are experienced in handling a wide variety of cases, including complex, high-exposure, document-intensive litigation...
English
Carlsmith Ball LLP

Carlsmith Ball LLP

Honolulu, United States

Founded in 1857
46 people in their team
At Carlsmith Ball, our history is driven by change. From the founding of our first office in Hilo in 1857, to welcoming the state’s first woman...
English

About Admiralty & Maritime Law in Honolulu, United States

Admiralty and Maritime Law, often referred to as the "Law of the Sea," governs legal issues arising from all types of nautical matters and activities. In Honolulu, the system applies the United States federal law alongside the international principles of maritime law. Matters covered include shipping or transportation of goods by sea, maritime commerce, sailors’ rights, maritime navigation, salvages, and the carriage of goods and passengers.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

i) Disputes involving vessels: Whether it’s about damages incurred from an accident, insurance claims, or disagreements regarding voyage contracts, an experienced Maritime attorney ensures full protection of your interests.

ii) Injuries on seafaring vessels: Victims or family members affected by incidents such as slip and fall, equipment failure, or violations of safety regulations can seek compensation with the assistance of a lawyer.

iii) Commercial shipping negotiations and disputes: Lawyers can guide you through the intricate maritime regulations and cargoes disputes.

iv) Environmental damage: Lawyers can help with legal actions related to oil spills or other maritime activities harmful to the environment.

Local Laws Overview

Local laws in Honolulu relevant to Admiralty & Maritime adhere to federal laws like The Jones Act, which covers worker's compensation for sailors, and The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, which applies to dockworkers and harbor workers. Local laws also cover environmental protections such as the Clean Water Act, which regulates pollutants into the U.S. waters, and the Oil Pollution Act which covers damages resulting from oil spills.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I file a maritime claim in Honolulu?

Maritime claims are generally filed in the federal court. It's advisable to hire a maritime attorney to guide you through the process as maritime law can be complex.

2. Can I sue for damages if I get injured on a cruise ship?

Yes, under Maritime Law, passengers can recover damages for injuries sustained on a cruise ship, provided it's proven that the cruise line was negligent.

3. Can I also apply for compensation if I'm a harbor worker?

Yes, the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act provides for compensation to harbor workers and other maritime employees.

4. What to do if my vessel was damaged in international waters but docked in Honolulu?

You can file a claim in the U.S. federal court under admiralty jurisdiction. Lawyers specializing in Maritime Law can guide you through this process.

5. Can a foreign entity have access to the U.S maritime laws?

Generally, International Maritime Law allows a foreign entity the recourse to U.S. courts for maritime claims, subject to some limitations.

Additional Resources

Organizations like The Maritime Law Association of the United States and The Federal Bar Association provide helpful resources. Further, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have substantial information related to maritime regulations and environment protection.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance, contact a lawyer specializing in Admiralty & Maritime Law. Choose someone with a good understanding of both the local and federal laws as they pertain to maritime issues for effective legal representation. Remember, prompt legal action can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.