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October 3, 2025


Aviation / Maritime / Niche Specialty Lawyers

Best Maritime Lawyers in the US: How to Choose Legal Experts for Shipping and Offshore Cases

Maritime law—also known as admiralty law—is one of the oldest and most complex areas of legal practice. It governs issues related to shipping, navigation, offshore work, and international trade. Given the high stakes involved in maritime disputes—ranging from cargo claims to offshore injuries—working with the best maritime attorneys is crucial.

The top maritime law firms in the US specialize in protecting the rights of seafarers, shipping companies, offshore workers, and insurers. This article explores the role of maritime lawyers, the types of cases they handle, and how to choose the right legal experts for your shipping or offshore case.

Why Maritime Lawyers Are Essential

Unlike standard personal injury or commercial disputes, maritime cases are governed by unique federal and international laws. For example, offshore injury claims often fall under the Jones Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).

Maritime lawyers provide expertise in:

  • Shipping and Cargo Disputes – Handling claims over damaged or lost goods.
  • Offshore Injury Claims – Representing workers injured on oil rigs, vessels, or docks.
  • Maritime Contracts – Drafting and enforcing charter agreements, insurance policies, and bills of lading.
  • Environmental and Regulatory Compliance – Advising shipping companies on pollution laws and safety regulations.
  • International Maritime Law – Navigating treaties and conventions that govern global shipping and trade.

With their specialized knowledge, the best maritime attorneys ensure that clients’ rights are upheld in complex and often multinational disputes.

Common Types of Maritime Cases

The scope of maritime law is broad. The top maritime law firms in the US typically handle cases involving:

  1. Jones Act Claims – Protecting seafarers injured due to employer negligence.
  2. Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Cases – Compensation for dockworkers and harbor employees.
  3. Cruise Ship Injuries – Passenger or crew claims for accidents aboard ships.
  4. Cargo and Shipping Disputes – Legal action for loss or damage to goods in transit.
  5. Offshore Oil Rig Accidents – Representing workers hurt in hazardous offshore environments.
  6. Marine Insurance Claims – Disputes involving vessel or cargo insurance coverage.
  7. Environmental Violations – Addressing oil spills, pollution claims, and regulatory enforcement.

These cases often involve federal courts, making it vital to hire maritime lawyers with proven experience.

Best Maritime Law Firms in the US

Several firms are recognized nationwide for their maritime expertise:

  • Maritime Law Firm – Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. – Known for representing cruise ship passengers and crew in injury cases.
  • Friedman, James & Buchsbaum LLP – Specializes in admiralty law, cargo disputes, and seafarer injury cases.
  • Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP – Focused on offshore accidents, Jones Act claims, and maritime worker rights.
  • Arnold & Itkin LLP – High-profile firm with a strong track record in offshore oil rig accident litigation.
  • Brais Law Firm – Handles cases involving yacht, cargo, and cruise ship injury claims.
  • Holland & Knight LLP – A full-service firm with one of the most respected maritime and shipping law practices in the US.

These top maritime law firms in the US combine technical knowledge of shipping with courtroom expertise, offering comprehensive support for both individuals and corporations.

How Maritime Attorneys Protect Clients’ Rights

1. Representing Injured Workers

Maritime lawyers fight for fair compensation under the Jones Act or LHWCA, ensuring medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care are covered.

2. Handling Complex Litigation

From multi-jurisdictional cargo disputes to international treaty enforcement, attorneys manage cases that often cross state and national boundaries.

3. Negotiating Settlements

The best maritime attorneys use negotiation skills to secure settlements without lengthy court battles.

4. Ensuring Compliance

They help shipping companies comply with federal regulations, avoiding costly penalties and lawsuits.

5. Advocating in Environmental Cases

Lawyers defend clients against environmental claims or pursue damages in cases of pollution and ecological harm.

Choosing the Right Maritime Lawyer

Selecting the right attorney for your shipping or offshore case requires careful consideration. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Specialization in Admiralty Law – Maritime law is highly specialized, so general practitioners may not have the necessary expertise.
  2. Track Record – Review previous cases handled by the attorney or firm.
  3. Industry Knowledge – Lawyers with experience in shipping, offshore drilling, or cruise lines can provide tailored advice.
  4. Resources and Network – Top firms have access to investigators, maritime experts, and international networks.
  5. Client Testimonials – Peer reviews and client feedback can indicate a firm’s reputation.

Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting too long to seek legal help (statutes of limitation may vary).
  • Accepting a settlement offer without legal consultation.
  • Choosing a lawyer without maritime specialization.
  • Overlooking international experience in global shipping disputes.

FAQs

Q1: What is the Jones Act, and why is it important?
The Jones Act is a federal law that allows seafarers injured due to employer negligence to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Q2: Do maritime lawyers only represent seafarers?
No. Maritime attorneys also represent shipping companies, insurers, cargo owners, and passengers involved in cruise ship claims.

Q3: How much do maritime attorneys charge?
Many work on contingency fees for injury cases, meaning they only get paid if you win compensation. For corporate disputes, firms may charge hourly rates or flat fees.

Q4: Can a maritime lawyer handle international shipping disputes?
Yes. Many maritime attorneys are experienced in handling cross-border cases governed by treaties such as the Hague-Visby Rules or international arbitration agreements.

Q5: Are offshore oil rig workers covered under maritime law?
Yes. Offshore workers are often protected under the Jones Act or LHWCA, depending on their employment classification.

Conclusion

Maritime law is complex, and its cases often involve federal and international regulations. The best maritime attorneys combine specialized legal knowledge with deep industry expertise to protect the rights of seafarers, shipping companies, and offshore workers.

By working with the top maritime law firms in the US, clients can confidently pursue claims, resolve disputes, and ensure compliance in the highly regulated world of shipping and offshore work. Whether you’re an injured crew member, a cargo owner, or a corporation, hiring experienced maritime lawyers is the best way to secure justice and safeguard your future.

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