Admiralty & Maritime Law
When involved in a dispute over the use of a waterway, a break in a contract that gave permission to use a harbor, or any legal trouble taking place on a body of water, the kind of lawyer you should consult is one who specializes in admiralty and maritime law.The Role of Admiralty and Maritime Lawyers
Admiralty and maritime lawyers can help you understand a contract before you sign, as well as offer assistance if you are seeking compensation for injury or unjust merchant practices. Traditionally, the jurisdiction of admiralty law was the ocean, and all bodies of water that ebb and flow with the tide; this domain of influence has been extended to include all waters that are navigable by the public, including navigable lakes, streams, and rivers.
Admiralty and Maritime Cases
Admiralty and maritime law cases are heard in federal district courts. There is a special set of rules that are used to present cases of decision. These cases, however, involve instances where claims will be sought in state courts rather than federal district courts.
Related Terms
When dealing with admiralty and maritime laws, there are certain terms you will run into often. Before diving in, it will be helpful for you to gain familiarity with these terms.
- Admiralty Court -- involves instances when the court exercises jurisdiction over maritime contracts, torts, injuries, or offenses.
- Jones Act -- refers to a 1920 federal statute that allows for workers compensation issues to be tried.
- Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act -- legislation involving workers compensation issues for maritime workers.
- Maritime -- subjects that pertain to navigable waters.
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