Author: Doug Williams

Foreign Seamen and the Jones Act: Rights to U.S. Legal Protections

international seamen rights jones act

The maritime industry is a global enterprise, powered by hardworking men and women from every corner of the world. A common and dangerous misconception, however, is that the powerful legal protections afforded to injured seamen under United States law are reserved exclusively for American citizens. This is not the case. Many foreign maritime workers who…

Written by Doug Williams on March 24, 2026

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Admiralty Rights: Can You Sue the U.S. Government for Maritime Injuries?

admiralty rights can you sue the us government for maritime injuries

An injury at sea is always a serious matter, but when the vessel involved is owned or operated by the United States government, the legal path to compensation becomes significantly more complex. Standard maritime laws like the Jones Act do not apply in the same way. Instead, injured seamen must navigate a different set of…

Written by Doug Williams on March 24, 2026

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What Does a Maritime Lawyer Do?

Maritime lawyer consulting at a port while reviewing shipping operations.

If you are wondering what a maritime lawyer does, the short answer is this (at least in the context of maritime personal injury cases): a maritime lawyer helps injured mariners understand and enforce their rights under maritime law when an accident happens on navigable waters or in maritime work. That can include injured seamen, deckhands,…

Written by Doug Williams on January 5, 2026

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Most Famous Oil Rig Accidents in US History

Offshore oil rig at sunset representing the risks faced by oil rig workers.

Oil rig accidents are some of the most dangerous workplace incidents in the world. Operating miles offshore, crews face constant risks from explosions, blowouts, and equipment failures. Despite advancements in safety technology, history has seen several catastrophic oil rig disasters that have forever changed the industry. These tragic oil rig accidents not only resulted in…

Written by Doug Williams on January 2, 2026

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How to Claim Salvage Rights on a Boat

Damaged boat stranded along the shoreline, partially wrecked and abandoned, representing a maritime salvage rights scenario.

If you’ve been involved in a maritime incident, understanding your rights under maritime law is crucial. Recent sea accidents highlight the importance of knowing how to claim salvage rights and protect your interests. What Is A Salvage Claim? A salvage claim allows for compensation after someone or a group of people rescue another ship in…

Written by Doug Williams on December 11, 2025

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What to Do If You’re Injured on a Cruise Ship: Legal Options Explained

A large cruise ship at sea sailing

The sudden disruption of a vacation by an injury at sea is a frightening and confusing experience. If you or a loved one is hurt onboard a cruise ship, knowing the immediate steps to take and being well-appraised of your legal options is crucial for protecting both your health and any future claims. Below we…

Written by Doug Williams on September 11, 2025

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Best Maritime Lawyers in California

professional maritime lawyer consulting with a client aboard a ship

When facing injuries or legal challenges on the water, it’s essential to have experienced California maritime lawyers on your side. These specialized attorneys understand the unique laws governing maritime work, including the Jones Act and Defense Base Act. Whether you’re dealing with offshore injuries, longshore accidents, or marine insurance disputes, skilled maritime lawyers in California…

Written by Doug Williams on August 8, 2025

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How Long Do I Have to File a Maritime Injury Claim? (Statute of Limitations Guide)

Concerned seaman on deck.

If you’ve suffered a maritime injury while working on the water, whether it happened aboard a commercial fishing vessel in Alaska, a barge in Washington, or a cargo dock in Florida, understanding the deadlines for filing maritime injury claims is crucial. These strict time limits, known in the legal world as “statutes of limitations”, determine…

Written by Doug Williams on July 30, 2025

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Best Maritime Lawyers in Washington

Commercial fishing boat navigating open waters off the coast of Washington. Description: A commercial fishing vessel moves through the open waters off Washington’s coCommercial fishing boat navigating open waters off the coast of Washington. Commercial fishing boat navigating open waters off the coast of Washington.

Maritime law can be overwhelming, especially when you’re coping with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, or the devastating loss of a loved one. For fishermen, barge workers, longshoremen, and others working on or near the water, understanding your legal rights is essential. Washington maritime lawyers can help injured maritime workers pursue the compensation they’re legally…

Written by Doug Williams on July 30, 2025

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Vessel Collision Claims: Understanding Fault and Compensation

Ship Collision at Sea

When two vessels collide at sea, the consequences can be catastrophic, impacting lives, property, and entire maritime operations. In the aftermath of a vessel collision, a competent maritime and admiralty lawyer plays a vital role in helping injured crew members, passengers, or vessel owners pursue compensation for injuries sustained. Evaluating claims that arise from a…

Written by Doug Williams on July 2, 2025

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