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    Maritime law (admiralty law, or admiralty) refers to the body of laws, treaties, and conventions that regulate navigation and shipping matters. These laws help govern maritime disputes, questions, offenses, and any other private maritime business or nautical issues that may emerge.

    Because admiralty governs maritime and nautical disputes and injuries, these laws differ from those that apply to accidents occurring on land. This makes it essential to speak to a Houston Maritime Injury Lawyer so they can help you understand admiralty-related legal concepts.

    In addition, if you’re seeking damages for a maritime injury, a Houston Maritime Injury Lawyer can help you navigate the process, win the compensation you deserve, and receive relevant benefits from an employer.

    By going through this guide, you will better understand:

    • The history, origin, and coverage of maritime law
    • The different types of maritime injuries
    • Roles and responsibilities of maritime injury lawyers
    • What you will get from hiring a Houston Maritime Injury Lawyer

    Overview of Maritime Law

    We can trace back Maritime law to Ancient Egypt when the need for standardized rules for governing fair trade and maritime safety arose.

    At the time, maritime trade was already in full swing, and ships could travel from port to port. However, there was no single court system that could manage maritime disputes. Hence, the mandate fell on local courts and tribunals, which often show bias.

    The solution was the introduction of a formal law that ensured the adequate compensation of shipowners, captains, and sailors if they became injured or lost at sea.

    Between 900 and 300 B.C., The Rhodian Sea Laws, some of the first written records of formal codes, were introduced. These codes enabled the overseeing of seafaring trade in the Mediterranean Sea and also influenced Roman Law. Over time, maritime laws would develop and eventually enter Europe and the United States in the 11th and 17th centuries, respectively.

    Definition of a Seaman

    Based on maritime law, a seaman refers to a ship’s captain or crew member. American maritime laws, such as the Jones Act, protect the rights of seamen and allow them to seek compensation for any injuries they sustain when traveling by sea between two ports within the country and onboard an American-owned vessel.

    You must meet the following criteria that will allow you to seek damages:

    • The majority of the crew aboard the ship must be U.S. citizens
    • The ship must be afloat, in operation, and capable of navigation
    • The vessel must be operating within navigable waters

    Coverage of Maritime Law

    As we have already stated, maritime laws differ from those governing land-based activities.

    Therefore, determining whether a seaman should receive compensation for injuries obtained at sea or in a lake requires an initial determination of the nature of the ship, the crew members, and whether the vessel had been operating within navigable waters.

    The following are some instances when maritime law can apply:

    • Recreational boating accidents
    • Commercial accidents that lead to vessel/cargo damage or injury to a seaman or seamen
    • Piracy and criminal activity
    • Fishing boat or jet ski accidents
    • Ship or cargo insurance claims

    Circumstances will also determine whether a case goes to federal or state court. For instance, the case will be heard in federal or state court if it’s an injury issue.

    In contrast, property disputes must be heard in federal court.

    Types of Maritime Injuries

    Here are some claims and remedies you can receive for injuries sustained at sea or in navigable waters.

    Jones Act Claims

    The Jones Act allows seamen to sue employers for injuries sustained in the course of their employment. This Act is a vital recourse since seamen cannot file for workers’ compensation benefits, as with land-based workers.

    Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act

    The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) will help you get compensation, vocational rehabilitation services, and medical care if on-the-job injuries have rendered you disabled.

    However, you must have sustained these injuries in navigable U.S. waters or in an area customarily used for cargo loading/unloading and vessel building/repair.

    Maintenance and Cure Benefits

    These feature remedies for seamen injured while working in a ship/vessel. They have the following categories:

    • Maintenance benefits: These are weekly checks paid to injured or sick workers.
    • Cure benefits: These are reasonable medical expenses paid by an employer throughout a seaman’s recovery process.

    Roles and Responsibilities of a Maritime Injury Lawyer

    A Maritime injury lawyer has the following tasks:

    • Representing injured seamen. The attorney will typically gain insights into your case and help you gain legal compensation for any injuries you might have incurred.
    • Assisting with claims. The attorney will understand the intricacies of your case and explain to you any legal measures that you can take to claim damages.

    Ensuring fair compensation. The attorney will also help you claim what you deserve by ensuring that all the injuries/damages are accounted for and that the employer pays benefits as required.

    Request A Free Case Consultation Today!

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      Benefits of Hiring a Houston Maritime Injury Lawyer

      A Houston Maritime Injury Lawyer can help you with your case because these professionals have experience with maritime law. Maritime injury lawyers also have an expansive knowledge of the legal processes. They can also negotiate with insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve. By speaking to an experienced attorney, you also stand a better chance of navigating the case process and attaining vocational rehabilitation services and medical care. You can always consult a maritime injury lawyer to ask about recreational boating accidents, commercial accidents that cause damage to cargo or injury, losses from piracy and criminal activity, fishing boat or jet ski accidents, and for ship or cargo insurance claim purposes. Contact Morrow & Sheppard LLP today for any maritime questions or disputes that you might have, or call us at 800-489-2216 to schedule a consultation.

      Practice Areas We Handle

      Our experienced Houston personal injury attorneys want to understand your unique situation so we can provide legal guidance that will help you obtain a favorable result. We have experience handling a wide variety of personal injury cases. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation, contact us today! You don’t pay us unless we win your case.

      We Get Results

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      Maritime Lawsuit
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      Traumatic Brain Injury – Oilfield Injury
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      Oil & Gas Burn Injury

      What Our Clients Are Saying

      Chris West is an excellent addition to the Morrow & Sheppard team. His skill set, dedication, and overall reliability he brings to the firm and clients are uncanny. You will not be disappointed.
      Candace M.
      Candace M.
      00:33 07 Sep 22
      I highly recommend the Morrow & Sheppard to anyone. They are an incredible group that did an outstanding job to make sure I got the highest settlement for my case. Attorney Daniel and his staff are all outstanding professionals with some serious case law knowledge and skill. His group went the... extra mile for me and because of that, my life has forever changed. Thank you Attorney Daniel and everyone that’s a part of his firm that worked so hard. I really appreciate you!read more
      Melis R.
      Melis R.
      20:36 25 Aug 22
      I am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Daniel Sheppard and Chris on my case. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Daniel would keep me up to date with the status of my case and Chris would also ensure all my paper work was submitted... in a timely manner. I am Very Happy with the Outcome! Thank you Daniel and Chris. I highly recommend their services and would not hesitate to use them again.read more
      D P.
      D P.
      15:43 07 Jul 22
      Very strong and courageous law firm I recommend to anyone who has suffered a injury from companies who need to be held responsible for lack of safety and security, my family is set for life and with these lawyers never backing down and fighting for truth behind every case and seeking the best... future for our family has given our family a second chance at being able to make it in life and holding companies accountable lifting burdens off our lives, very proud and beyond blessed to have had them fight the fight and have a tremendous outcome for our future. Along with a great and kind staff we HIGHLY recommend this law firm.read more
      Nikki L.
      Nikki L.
      23:11 13 May 22
      I was a client for 2.5 years after a car accident in 2019 and represented by Patrick McGinnis. He was knowledgable, compassionate, and level headed.His assisting paralegal, Ramona Anaya, was reliable, knowledgable, and kind in all our interactions.They went above and beyond to help me navigate... everything that unfolded after my car accident. They were able to secure a favorable settlement before trial.I’m very happy to have had Morrow&Sheppard Firm represent me.read more
      Marceline A.
      Marceline A.
      11:54 20 Mar 22
      Professional and knowledgeable with years of experience.
      angel martinez J.
      angel martinez J.
      20:04 08 Mar 22
      I had a accident and I chose morrow&sheppard they was great from the start to the finish Chris was real informative and helpful was the whole process and got me a fair settlement they really care about there Clients if you in a car accident call them
      Richard L.
      Richard L.
      18:15 03 Mar 22
      After a car accident last year I went to Morrow & Sheppard for assistance. Jose and Chris were exceptionally accommodating and handled my case with professionalism. They're primary concern was my well being and they went above and beyond to ensure I would receive the best settlement possible. A... very efficient and dedicated team!read more
      Amanda W.
      Amanda W.
      20:20 16 Feb 22
      I've been in the legal field for a while now and not only do I know John Sheppard & Nick Morrow, I have attorney friends that have worked with them throughout the years. This is a great firm and great people that work at Morrow & Sheppard. I have been reading the reviews on here and it makes me... happy to see that their clients think as highly of them as I do.read more
      Susan L.
      Susan L.
      00:17 15 Feb 22
      I was injured and my business closed down due to an accident in 2016. Daniel Sheppard became my greatest asset. He hired professional experts for their views and opinions as well as conducting numerous depositions. Daniel is hard working and no nonsense when handling your case. Daniel keeps you... informed on what's going on and what to expect. I'm from Louisiana and my case was in Texas. Daniel Sheppard worked alone side my other attorney Yuri Beck, and the both of them did a fantastic job representing me and settling my case. Daniel Sheppard of Morrow & Sheppard in Texas and Yuri Beck of Hunter & Beck in Louisiana are my lawyers for LIFE.read more
      Dale S.
      Dale S.
      14:24 04 Jan 22
      Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were the lead attorneys on my case to hold an apartment complex with inadequate security responsible for the death of my son. The two of them were focused and determined to represent me and my son's children with tenacity. As the case continued over time, it became... apparent that we were not merely clients that were a means to a financial end to them but people who had experienced a life changing and devastating loss. They realized that as a result of our loss, there needed to be accountability that could only be obtained through legal actions. Throughout the legal process, Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were not only professional and transparent but also compassionate and empathetic as they lead us through the difficult and sometimes confusing legal maze. Every person in their office that was involved with our case exemplified an extension of the genuine concern that began with attorneys Morrow and Sheppard. I have and will continue to recommend this firm to individuals who find themselves in need of legal representation.read more
      Rosie E.
      Rosie E.
      18:18 23 Nov 21
      The legal team at Morrow and Shepherd worked hard to help me win my case where a motorist who caused the accident changed her story and lied about the accident. A previous attorney kept telling me that I would probably have to pay some of the medical costs out of my own pocket.Daniel, my... attorney, assured me that he would it is best to make sure this did not happen and that he would fight to get me the best compensation possible. He was true to his word.I'm happy with their work, happy with the compensation and would definitely use them again.The Legal Assistant, Chris, was always professional, friendly and polite and a pleasure to work with.A big thanks to the team!Donread more
      Don D.
      Don D.
      01:52 21 Nov 21
      Nick and his group have helped where they can and are working hard to get a resolution to my injuries. I spoke with 4 different law firms prior to choosing Morrow & Sheppard LLP.ThanksJeff
      Jeff N.
      Jeff N.
      19:28 18 Nov 21
      I was referred to Daniel Sheppard because of a car accident I had been in. I was very impressed with how he told me about the process of how things worked and the things to expect. He was very forth coming and always supportive. The experience was a positive one and ended on a great note! I highly... recommend him.Elizabeth Varonread more
      Elizabeth Swanson V.
      Elizabeth Swanson V.
      01:25 03 Sep 21
      Before I engaged John Sheppard, I was concerned that I might lose my case. However, John came onboard, turned things around, and set me on a good course to win. He got up to speed quickly on the facts and determined exactly what we needed to do. He is great at strategy, filing discovery and... other motions, and arguing before the court. I was extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. If you need legal help in a personal injury action, commercial law or whatever, hire him immediately! He is a pleasure to work with, will thoroughly explain all to you in a manner you can understand, and will get you the best possible outcome. A+++read more
      Christine E.
      Christine E.
      01:20 11 May 21
      I was seriously injured and they represented me and I was so happy with the outcome and would recommend them to any others seeking professional lawyers. They also set me up with the best doctors. My son and I have now put this lawsuit behind us thanks to Morrow & Sheppard.
      BB C.
      BB C.
      18:53 22 Apr 21
      Phenomenal lawyer. I can not heap enough praise on these guys,.
      Stephen T.
      Stephen T.
      03:28 04 Nov 20
      Nick Morrow is a GREAT lawyer that really knows his job. He made me feel comfortable about hiring him to handle my case. He’s trustworthy and very compassionate about his work. His staff is awesome also, everyone was nice and friendly to me when I visited the office. The settlement I received... exceeded my expectations, it was four times what I expected. I would highly recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone needing legal representation. Thanks again Nick!!read more
      III 4.
      III 4.
      21:08 27 May 20
      I was injured working offshore. Morrow & Sheppard handled my maritime case and won a great settlement for me. If you have been injured at work, Morrow & Sheppard are great offshore injury lawyers.
      tim C.
      tim C.
      02:19 30 Nov 19
      Morrow & Sheppard won my family a multimillion dollar settlement in a wrongful death case after my kids’ father died. The settlement money will help make sure my family is taken care of, and that my kids can go to college. If you have a wrongful death case or a loved one dies at work, call Morrow... & Sheppard. They will take care of you.read more
      Dwana M.
      Dwana M.
      16:26 27 Nov 19
      Morrow & Sheppard helped me when my employer breached my contract. They took the case from start to finish, and won our trial. If you’ve been injured or wronged at work, call Morrow & Sheppard.
      Ky Evans - Celebrity Strength Coach (The LIFT L.
      Ky Evans - Celebrity Strength Coach (The LIFT L.
      22:53 14 Nov 19
      I suffered a work injury when the work vehicle I was riding in was involved in an accident with another car. Morrow & Sheppard took my case and won a great settlement for me. If you need a work injury attorney, I highly recommend Morrow & Sheppard.
      Dinah R.
      Dinah R.
      00:39 12 Nov 19
      Nick Morrow and John Sheppard are the best. I was paralyzed in a work injury. Several other lawyers turned down my case. Morrow & Sheppard hired expensive experts, took dozens of depositions, and proved my case. I saw them in court against a team of defense lawyers, and the defense lawyers... didn’t stand a chance. Morrow & Sheppard took my case all the way when nobody else would. Now my family is set up for life. Throughout the process, they kept me updated and made me feel like I was more than a number. I still talk to Nick to this day. Morrow & Sheppard exceeded my expectations in every way, and I cannot recommend them enough. If you are injured at work, call Morrow & Sheppard.read more
      jeff H.
      jeff H.
      23:20 17 Oct 18
      Nick Morrow represented me in a commercial dispute and achieved a positive and quick resolution. Both Nick Morrow and John Sheppard have the background, determination, dedication and passion that is critical when choosing legal representation. I highly recommend them for your legal needs.
      Sallie M.
      Sallie M.
      18:55 01 Aug 15
      Morrow & Sheppard is a great law firm. Both Nick and John are excellent attorneys that aggressively and zealously pursue their clients' claims.
      Yusuf B.
      Yusuf B.
      15:44 22 Jul 15
      John Sheppard, with Morrow & Sheppard LLP, is brilliant. On more than one occasion, he successfully represented various affiliated companies I was part of. John is very diligent, thorough and fights hard for righteousness. There were numerous times that he helped us through extremely difficult... moments. John is very professional, responsive and respectful. I highly endorse Morrow and Sheppard LLP for legal representation and/or legal assistance needs.read more
      Don K.
      Don K.
      21:19 15 Jul 15
      John and Nick are well trained, experienced, smart and most importantly, tenaciously dedicated to their clients' interests. They will get the job done right.
      Andy P.
      Andy P.
      18:41 14 Jul 15
      Should I ever need an attorney Morrow & Sheppard will be my first call. Having known them both for many years now I know the passion and dedication that they both have toward their work. They both have a solid background that helps them to meet any needs that clients may have. I would recommend... them to anyone in need of an attorney.read more
      Keith C.
      Keith C.
      16:39 14 Jul 15
      My experience with John, at Morrow and Sheppard, during my company’s litigation was better than I could have imagined (considering the circumstances of being involved in litigation). What stood out to me the most, was John’s tenacity in preparation. I later realized this came from two places, one... he didn’t want to lose and two (and most importantly) he CARED so much about me getting justice. I cannot stress this enough, when you are dealing with a lawyer that truly cares, then all of the other stresses I had around the case seemed to go away. I was always kept up to date with what was going on in our case, and he always made it very clear he was just an email or call away! In addition to these attributes, he also knows the law and is willing to fight for what is right! It would be tough to find another lawyer that is as highly effective, skilled, knowledgeable, ethical and has such an impeccable reputation (which is well deserved). I would recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone seeking out a law firm, in the event they needed counsel.read more
      Brian R
      Brian R
      16:04 14 Jul 15
      Nick and John are a great team. They are both honest, trustworthy and have a tenacious work ethic on behalf of their clients. They stand behind these qualities, having left partnerships at great law firms to commit 100% to achieving results for individuals and businesses. They will fight for... you and I'm proud to call them clients and friends.read more
      Jim B.
      Jim B.
      13:58 13 Jul 15
      I cannot think of anyone I would trust more for legal advice. First class attorneys.
      Claire M.
      Claire M.
      04:13 11 Jul 15
      John and Nick are outstanding lawyers. They are both extremely sharp, skilled, hard-working, and passionate about what they do. I would highly recommend either of them to anyone looking for high-level service that also happens to be affordable.
      Will M.
      Will M.
      22:08 10 Jul 15
      I've known Nick for many years; he's a first-class person in all regards and I would absolutely recommend him to anybody with legal needs.
      Dan E.
      Dan E.
      14:42 01 Jul 15
      Nick's an outstanding lawyer and an even better person. I would recommend Morrow & Sheppard to anyone seeking legal representation.
      Billy O.
      Billy O.
      23:07 30 Jun 15
      I have known Nick Morrow for many years, and he is incredibly trustworthy, intelligent, and generally one of the best people I know. Without question, I would recommend him and his firm to anyone needing legal representation.
      Koetting J.
      Koetting J.
      22:26 30 Jun 15
      Morrow and Sheppard represented my business in a dispute and was able to quickly and successfully achieve a settlement. The attention to detail and timely work was very beneficial to us. I highly recommend Morrow & Sheppard.
      Matt G.
      Matt G.
      14:40 26 Jun 15
      Best injury lawyers around. Honest attorneys; tenacious on behalf of their clients.
      Chris D.
      Chris D.
      21:38 25 Jun 15
      Thoughtful, hardworking, brilliant. These guys are the real deal.
      Annie E.
      Annie E.
      17:33 24 Jun 15
      Morrow & Sheppard would be my first call for legal assistance. I have known Nick Morrow for years and I cannot say enough positive things about him. He is smart, dedicated, ethical, dependable, and very thorough with every client. I would strongly recommend this firm to anyone looking for top of... the line legal assistance.read more
      Anne Louise C.
      Anne Louise C.
      15:28 24 Jun 15
      Morrow & Sheppard LLP is an outstanding law firm. I have known Nick Morrow for many years. He is honest, hardworking, and very attentive to his clients. I could not recommend him enough for your legal needs.
      Caroline B.
      Caroline B.
      21:25 23 Jun 15
      Nick Morrow represented my hospital in a rather messy multi-party contractual dispute between our landlord and a third party tenant that ended in a favorable outcome for our side. Throughout the process Nick provided excellent follow-up, strategic insight, and guidance. I would highly recommend... Morrow and Sheppard for legal services.read more
      Sam R.
      Sam R.
      21:05 23 Jun 15
      Nick Morrow and John Sheppard are extremely knowledgeable, hard-working, and attentive. They go above and beyond to meet the needs of each and every client. I highly recommend this law firm for your next case.
      Megan M.
      Megan M.
      16:17 23 Jun 15
      Nick Morrow is an extremely trustworthy, smart, and loyal individual. I would highly recommend his firm to anyone needing legal assistance.
      Kendall M.
      Kendall M.
      14:58 23 Jun 15
      I know Nick Morrow to be an extremely trustworthy and compassionate individual who represents his clients with utmost respect and persistence. Without hesitation, I would recommend Morrow & Sheppard to anyone needing legal advice or counsel.
      Mollie S.
      Mollie S.
      16:18 22 Jun 15
      I've known Nick Morrow for many years now and know there isn't a more loyal, hard-working, or trustworthy attorney out there. I would highly recommend him and his team to anyone in need of an attorney that gets results.
      Mike V.
      Mike V.
      15:44 22 Jun 15
      Morrow & Sheppard are second to none. Nick and John are a class act. My experience with the firm could not have been better.
      Jeffrey W.
      Jeffrey W.
      20:10 19 Jun 15
      The dedication and hard work of Morrow & Sheppard are second to none. One of the brightest and exceptionally run firms out there. I highly recommend them.
      James J.
      James J.
      19:57 19 Jun 15
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