If you work at the Port of Long Beach, you know the pace of work has been up and down over the past few years. This year it has been down. In a recent interview, the port's chief operating officer said freight shipping at the port is currently down 27% from the...
Maritime Law
Maritime injury claims and death at sea actions
Working at sea can be a very rewarding career for California residents; however, it is one that comes with many risks. The dangers are so extensive, that a worker’s life could be lost. As such, it is important for maritime employees and their loved ones to understand...
What is the Federal Maritime Commission?
If you are involved in international ocean transportation, you may have heard of the Federal Maritime Commission, or FMC. Federal Maritime Commission The FMC is an independent federal agency that regulates the U.S. international ocean transportation system for the...
Tips for drafting your maritime contracts
Well-drafted contracts can go a long way to preventing problems and disputes over the course of running your business. Working to make sure your contracts are thorough and contain clear language can save you time and trouble in the future. This is especially true when...
What to do after a maritime accident
If you work at sea, you know that your job comes with a higher risk of an accident or injury than many other jobs. In the aftermath of a maritime accident, you may feel overwhelmed, confused and have many questions about your legal rights. Before exploring your legal...
Navigating union and labor disputes in the maritime industry
Operating a maritime business can be complicated. With supply chain problems, weather-related challenges, worldwide obstacles and other issues, it can be difficult to handle everything efficiently. One concern that has been ongoing is union and labor disputes....
Understanding claims under the Jones Act and LHWCA
There are two main regulations that address maritime issues in the United States. They are the Jones Act and the Longshoremen’s and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). Maritime workers may file claims under both. Regulations The Jones Act requires that all goods...
Maritime tragedy triggers legislative change
On December 23, 2022, the Small Passenger Vessel Act (SPVA) was signed into law carving out small vessels from the protection of the Limitation of Liability Act of 1851 and thereby exposing them to liability for any and all losses resulting from a maritime accident....
Handling maritime business ownership transfers
When a business owner first starts their maritime business, they often have plans to grow the business over time. However, if the business is not as successful as they hoped it would be, an owner may choose to walk away from the business they built and transfer the...
What is the Death on the High Seas Act?
Many California residents enjoy a lucrative and exciting career in the maritime industry. However, maritime work carries a higher risk of injury and death than many other industries, and because of that, there are laws to protect workers and their families. One of...