Best Admiralty & Maritime Lawyers in Jamaica

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Janene Laing Law
Kingston, Jamaica

English
Janene Laing Law is a Jamaica-based law practice led by Principal Attorney Janene Laing, offering specialized services in corporate and commercial matters, offshore arrangements, security documentation and civil litigation. The firm draws on more than 10 years of legal experience and a background...
Kingston, Jamaica

English
Juris Partners, located in Kingston, Jamaica, offers specialized legal services in areas such as corporate and commercial law, real estate, information technology, intellectual property, family law, estate planning, and civil litigation. The firm's attorneys possess over 20 years of combined...
Balcostics Research
Mandeville, Jamaica

English
Balcostics Research operates in Jamaica as a hybrid law and research practice that integrates legal services with market and data capabilities. The team focuses on matters that benefit from rigorous evidence gathering and structured analysis, serving businesses, institutions, and individuals. Core...
Kingston, Jamaica

Founded in 1990
25 people in their team
English
Hart Muirhead Fatta is a Jamaica based law firm providing a wide range of services to corporate and individual clients. The firm concentrates on corporate, business, commercial and banking law, and maintains a robust litigation practice to support clients in Jamaica and abroad.Hart Muirhead Fatta...
Kingston, Jamaica

1 person in their team
English
The Tax Law Office of Dayle Blair is a boutique practice concentrating on U.S. international tax, U.S. immigration and cross-border business matters. Led by Dayle Blair, who is admitted as an attorney in Jamaica and in the United States and holds credentials as a certified public accountant, IRS...

Founded in 1970
English
Faculty of Law, The University of the West Indies in Jamaica stands as a premier academic department dedicated to legal education and research in the Caribbean. With a robust curriculum and a distinguished faculty, the institution has established itself as a leader in the academic study of law,...
Kingston, Jamaica

Founded in 2012
English
Lewis, Smith, Williams & Company (LSW & Co.) is a full service civil and commercial law firm established by its founding partners Kathryn A. Lewis, Michelle N. Smith and Venice Williams-Gordon. The firm provides a comprehensive range of legal services to local, regional and international...
Kingston, Jamaica

English
ShieldsLaw is a client-centric Jamaican law practice with offices in Kingston and Mandeville that specializes in land, estate and commercial services. The firm relies on a multidisciplinary team of at least two attorneys-at-law with local and international experience to handle a full range of...
Kingston, Jamaica

Founded in 1979
4 people in their team
English
Daly, Thwaites & Co. is a Jamaican law firm established in 1979 with a long-standing reputation for civil law and human rights advocacy founded by Ronald G. Thwaites and Dennis Daly. The firm has developed a multi-decade record of practice in conveyancing, civil litigation and criminal matters...

Founded in 2021
English
Upper Chambers Law Suites Unlimited is a Jamaica based law firm comprising independent attorneys at law who practice as a partnership. The Company was first registered in 2021 in Jamaica and operates from Suite 24, Catherine Hall Iconic Plaza, Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, with a Kingston office to...
AS SEEN ON

About Admiralty & Maritime Law in Jamaica

Admiralty & Maritime Law in Jamaica is a specialized field of law that governs maritime issues and offenses. This area of law deals with a wide array of matters related to ships, shipping, marine navigation, waters, and the resources of the sea. Jamaica, as an island nation with a rich maritime tradition, has developed a framework that supports international maritime activities, ensuring that they are conducted safely and legally. This legal specialization is critical due to Jamaica’s strategic location in the Caribbean Sea, vibrant shipping industry, and reliance on marine transport and resources.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in which one might require the services of a lawyer specializing in Admiralty & Maritime Law in Jamaica. These include:

  • Disputes related to shipping contracts and shipbuilding agreements.
  • Maritime accidents and incidents, including personal injury claims and cargo damage.
  • Issues of ship registration, leasing, and financing.
  • Pollution claims and violations of environmental regulations.
  • Advice on compliance with international maritime laws such as SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and MARPOL (Marine Pollution).
  • Disputes related to crew contracts and working conditions at sea.
  • Customs and import/export law violations.

Local Laws Overview

Jamaica's Admiralty & Maritime laws are influenced by both local legislation and international treaties. Key aspects include:

  • The Shipping Act: Governs the registration of ships, licensing of seafarers, and safety regulations on Jamaican waters.
  • The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC): Ensures the rights and welfare of seafarers, addressing issues such as working conditions and pay.
  • The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Maritime Treaty: This regional treaty impacts trade and maritime cooperation among its members.
  • Environmental Laws: Jamaica implements laws that regulate marine pollution and enforce penalties for violators to preserve marine ecological health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Admiralty & Maritime Law?

Admiralty & Maritime Law encompasses legal matters related to shipping, navigation, marine resources, ship financing, commerce, and accidents on the sea.

What should I do after a maritime accident?

Seek medical help if necessary, report the incident to appropriate authorities, and contact a maritime lawyer to understand your rights and obligations.

Are there specific laws regulating fishing activities?

Yes, fishing activities are regulated under local fisheries laws and international agreements to prevent overfishing and protect marine biodiversity.

How does the registration of a ship work in Jamaica?

Ship registration in Jamaica involves compliance with The Shipping Act, which requires ships to meet certain safety and operational standards.

What if my cargo is damaged during shipping?

You may have a claim against the shipping company or insurer, depending on the shipping contract's terms and conditions.

Does Jamaica have laws against marine pollution?

Yes, Jamaica enforces strict anti-pollution laws under various local acts and international conventions, such as MARPOL.

What are the legal requirements for working on a ship registered in Jamaica?

These include obtaining the necessary seafarer certifications, meeting health and safety standards, and adhering to terms outlined in the Maritime Labour Convention.

How do I resolve a dispute over a shipping contract?

It's advisable to seek mediation or arbitration with the help of an experienced maritime attorney to resolve the dispute efficiently.

Can foreign ships operate in Jamaican waters?

Yes, but they must comply with international maritime regulations and local laws as stipulated by The Shipping Act.

What organization regulates maritime issues in Jamaica?

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) is responsible for overseeing maritime activities and ensuring safety and compliance with relevant laws.

Additional Resources

For further guidance and information about Admiralty & Maritime Law in Jamaica, consider exploring the following resources:

  • Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) - Provides oversight and regulation of maritime activities.
  • Jamaica Bar Association - Has a section dedicated to marine law practitioners.
  • Caribbean Maritime Institute - Offers educational programs and resources on maritime affairs.
  • International Maritime Organization (IMO) - Provides international maritime guidelines and conventions.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance related to Admiralty & Maritime Law in Jamaica, here are some steps to consider:

  • Identify the specific legal issue or question you need help with.
  • Research and select a qualified attorney specializing in maritime law.
  • Prepare all relevant documents and information to discuss with your attorney.
  • Schedule a consultation to understand your rights and potential legal strategies.
  • Work closely with your lawyer to address the matter efficiently and professionally.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Jamaica through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Admiralty & Maritime, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Jamaica — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.