Best Admiralty & Maritime Lawyers in United States

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Coppersmith Brockelman PLC
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
English
At Coppersmith Brockelman, we believe that law firms have too many rules.  Here are ours:  Work at the highest level of our profession.  Think creatively and find practical solutions.  Do the right thing.  Maintain our sense of humor.  Build community - with clients,...
Friday Eldredge & Clark LLP
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 1871
500 people in their team
English
FRIDAY, ELDREDGE & CLARK, LLP  is a full-service law firm representing businesses, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, government entities and individual clients in Arkansas and across the United States. The firm is the largest in Arkansas with 90 attorneys and 100 support...
Theodora Oringher
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Since its founding, Theodora Oringher has developed into a legal powerhouse boutique. We are regularly called upon by clients as their go-to firm for sophisticated, high-stakes litigation. We also provide sound and wise counsel to businesses on transactions and operations issues. Our client roster...
Conner & Winters, LLP
Fayetteville, United States

Founded in 1933
200 people in their team
English
Conner & Winters was founded in 1933 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Benjamin C. Conner and John M. Winters, Jr. The young firm was dealt a temporary setback when, on the day following formation of the partnership, President Franklin D. Roosevelt closed every bank in the nation by executive order,...
BG Law
Woodland, United States

Founded in 1987
200 people in their team
English
At BG Law we listenWe are more than attorneys - we are dealmakers. We leverage our business backgrounds and creative insight into the most sensible advice and counsel for clients. Many of our attorneys are former bankers, accountants, business owners and professionals, who call upon years of...
Littler
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1942
5,000 people in their team
English
Helping Your Business ThriveAt Littler, our unparalleled commitment to labor and employment law helps our clients navigate a complex business world with nuanced legal issues - building better solutions for their toughest challenges.How do we do it? By harnessing our deep experience and expansive...
The Glick Law Firm
New York City, United States

English
The Glick Law Firm serves Michigan clients across estate planning and asset protection, corporate law and business matters, civil and commercial litigation, construction law, probate court representation, real estate and landlord-tenant matters, family law, and arbitration and alternative dispute...
DLM LAW LLC
Kansas City, United States

Founded in 2005
6 people in their team
English
DLM LAW LLC is a Kansas City based law firm that concentrates on high stakes business disputes for inventors, entrepreneurs and small to mid-size businesses. Since 2005 the firm has represented clients in matters ranging from breach of contract and IP disputes to patent infringement and legal...
Ashburn & Mason P.C.
Anchorage, United States

Founded in 1969
11 people in their team
English
We are a full-service law firm committed to providing thoughtful, aggressive, cost-effective representation. We can guide you through transactions, provide legally-informed problem-solving, and represent you in lawsuits, mediation, administrative proceedings, and appeals. Our firm is well-known to...
San Diego, United States

Founded in 2002
20 people in their team
English
The Law Offices of Jacob J. Sapochnick is a San Diego based law firm specializing exclusively in immigration and citizenship law. The firm combines high level expertise with a cost effective service model and serves a multilingual client base in Spanish, Swedish, Mandarin, Danish, Hebrew, French...
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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.