Best Admiralty & Maritime Lawyers in United States

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Burlingame, United States

English
Akcok Law Office is a California-based practice focused on immigration, personal injury, corporate law and civil litigation. The firm combines U.S. immigration expertise with litigation experience in California to support individuals and businesses through complex statutory, administrative and...
Engelman Berger, PC
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Engelman Berger is comprised of experienced lawyers who are well recognized for their expertise and commitment to resolve commercial disputes and assist clients in preventing legal problems through proper planning. The firms’ clients are national and local lenders, borrowers, lessors, tenants,...
Dilendorf Law Firm PLLC
New York City, United States

5 people in their team
English
Dilendorf Law Firm is a New York City based practice led by Max Dilendorf that specializes in digital assets, crypto litigation, and cross-border structuring for high net worth individuals and innovative businesses. The firm handles stolen-crypto recovery and enforcement via arbitration with AAA,...
The Cobos Law Firm
Houston, United States

Founded in 2019
English
The Cobos Law Firm is a Houston-based personal injury practice led by Andrew Cobos, a former Army officer whose disciplined approach informs every case. The firm concentrates on securing substantial recoveries for clients in vehicle accidents and other negligence matters across Texas, using...
Nici Law Firm
Naples, United States

English
Nici Law Firm specializes in estate planning, probate, and trust administration for families across Naples, Florida. Led by James R. Nici, a board certified specialist in Wills, Trusts and Estates with a Master of Laws in Taxation, the firm delivers tailored strategies designed to protect assets,...
Bend Law Group, PC
San Francisco, United States

Founded in 2010
9 people in their team
English
Bend Law Group, PC serves California entrepreneurs and growth companies with practical legal guidance across corporate formation, governance, funding and complex litigation in state and federal courts. The firm focuses on helping startups turn ideas into scalable ventures, offering services from...
Stradling
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 1975
200 people in their team
English
For nearly 50 years, top companies and municipalities have counted on Stradling to have the right team and skills to meet their toughest challenges 24/7, 365 days a year.Stradling is a leading business law firm with 115 lawyers providing experienced counsel in critical transactions and disputes...

English
The Ignacio G. Martinez Law Firm ABOGADO DE ACCIDENTES is a Brownsville, Texas based practice led by attorney Ignacio G. Martinez. The firm focuses on personal injury, immigration and cross-border legal matters, and is licensed to practice in both Texas and Mexico as well as in the federal system...

Founded in 1997
24 people in their team
English
ValueOur San Francisco lawyers are experienced in handling a wide variety of cases, including complex, high-exposure, document-intensive litigation and transactions. It is in just such high-exposure, complex cases that we often are able to deliver legal expense savings to clients, since we have...

Founded in 1977
5,000 people in their team
English
About UsAt Ogletree Deakins, we provide coverage through 59 offices in 31 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and in Canada, Mexico, and Europe. We represent employers of all sizes and across many industries, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.At Ogletree...
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About Admiralty & Maritime Law in United States

Admiralty and Maritime Law, often used interchangeably, pertains to the legal framework governing activities on navigable waters. In the United States, this specialized area of law covers a diverse range of issues, including shipping, navigation, waters, insurance, canals, and maritime employment. It is rooted in both domestic legislation and international conventions, primarily focusing on protecting maritime commerce and property. The U.S. federal courts hold exclusive jurisdiction over most maritime cases, with some exceptions allowing state-level involvement.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in which individuals or businesses might require legal assistance in the realm of Admiralty and Maritime Law:

  • Personal Injury: Cases involving injuries to seamen, longshoremen, or passengers, such as those under the Jones Act.
  • Cargo Disputes: Issues related to the transportation and delivery of goods, including lost or damaged cargo.
  • Charter Party Agreements: Legal challenges related to contracts for chartering vessels.
  • Maritime Liens: Matters concerning financial claims against vessels.
  • Environmental Concerns: Legal cases involving oil spills, pollution, and related environmental regulations.
  • Salvage and Treasure Recovery: Rights and compensation related to salvaging ships and recovering underwater property.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of U.S. Admiralty and Maritime Law include:

  • The Jones Act: Provides protections for seamen injured in the course of employment, allowing them to sue their employers for negligence.
  • Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA): Offers compensation to certain maritime workers not covered by the Jones Act.
  • General Maritime Law: Includes doctrines like Maintenance and Cure, which obligate employers to care for injured seamen until they reach maximum medical improvement.
  • The Limitation of Liability Act: Allows shipowners to limit their liability concerning maritime accidents to the value of the vessel post-incident.
  • The Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (COGSA): Regulates the rights and responsibilities of shippers and carriers concerning ocean cargo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes a maritime claim?

Maritime claims generally involve incidents or contracts related to navigation and commerce on navigable waters. This includes personal injury to maritime workers, shipping contracts, and pollution issues.

Are all maritime cases handled by federal courts?

While federal courts typically have jurisdiction over maritime matters, some cases can be heard at the state level depending on the specific legal issue involved.

Who is eligible to file a claim under the Jones Act?

Seamen who spend a significant portion of their employment on a vessel in navigable waters and are injured due to employer negligence can file claims under the Jones Act.

What is 'Maintenance and Cure' under Maritime Law?

'Maintenance and Cure' is a legal doctrine obligating shipowners to provide for a seaman's basic living expenses and medical care until recovery or reaching maximum improvement.

What does the Limitation of Liability Act cover?

This act allows shipowners to limit their liability for maritime accidents to the post-incident value of the vessel and cargo.

Are passengers covered under Maritime Law?

Yes, passengers on ships can be covered under Maritime Law, especially in personal injury cases where the shipowner may be liable for negligence or unseaworthy conditions.

What rights do longshoremen and harbor workers have?

Under the LHWCA, these workers are entitled to compensation for injuries sustained on navigable waters or adjoining areas like docks and terminals.

Can I pursue a claim for environmental damage at sea?

Yes, maritime law covers environmental protections, and affected parties can pursue claims for damages under federal laws like the Oil Pollution Act.

What is the significance of a Maritime Lien?

A Maritime Lien is a claim against a vessel for debts related to the vessel, such as repairs or crew wages, and it can be exercised through the arrest of the vessel.

How is cargo damage handled under maritime law?

COGSA governs the carrier’s responsibilities and the shipper’s rights regarding damaged or lost cargo, often necessitating legal proceedings for resolution.

Additional Resources

Consider contacting the following resources for more information or legal assistance:

  • U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD): Offers resources and information related to maritime activity in the U.S.
  • American Maritime Congress (AMC): Provides advocacy and education about U.S. maritime and shipping industries.
  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Offers regulatory information and resources on marine and coastal activities.
  • Law Libraries and Legal Clinics: Many law schools and legal aid organizations offer free or low-cost consultations.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in Admiralty & Maritime, consider the following steps:

  • Identify Your Issue: Clearly define your legal issue to ensure you consult the appropriate legal expertise.
  • Consult a Maritime Lawyer: Look for attorneys specializing in admiralty and maritime law for preliminary guidance.
  • Research Legal Options: Familiarize yourself with your rights and potential remedies under maritime law.
  • Gather Documentation: Prepare any relevant documents such as contracts, witness statements, and evidence of damages or injuries.
  • Consider the Timelines: Be aware of any legal timelines or deadlines specific to maritime claims to ensure your case is filed timely.

Seeking specialized legal advice is crucial to navigate the complexities of Admiralty & Maritime Law effectively and protect your rights accordingly.

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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.

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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.