Jones Act Attorneys

Jones Act of 1970

If you have already spoken to an attorney regarding your work-related injury at sea, you may have heard references to the Jones Act. If you have not selected an attorney yet, then you will soon be hearing about the Jones Act. That's because this act is made up of rules and regulations that protect a seamen or longshoreman that has been injured on the job. Before Congress had passed this piece of legislation and some others, there was a limited amount of protection available for an injured worker at sea. This act not only protects an injured worker but it also aids in determining the liability resulting from an accident without limiting itself to just the employer. There is also verbiage that dictates liability of the vessel or ship's owner.

Jones Act attorneys are well versed in the Jones Act and other maritime laws. They rely on being able to pursue obtaining the compensation that the injured worker and worker's family deserve based on these laws, some of which have been around for centuries.

The Jones Act covers multiple scenarios and factors that affect an incident that occurs off the coast. There will be occasion where the injured sea worker is a foreign national working on an American vessel. The question of jurisdiction in a case like this is dealt with in the Jones Act. There is also the scenario where the ship and the employees aboard are all foreign but are working in American waters and doing business with American corporations. Again, the Jones Act dictates liability of any injuries that occur in this situation.

The status of the ship including where it is ported, from where it originated, what its destination is, and even what flag it waves, all play a role in where liability falls. Jones Act attorneys should have in-depth knowledge of these regulations and how they will affect your case.

Injury of an American Citizen Seamen

If you have been injured while on the job of a vessel or ship, Jones Act attorneys will be able to advise you of your legal rights. You are protected by maritime law, specifically the Jones Act, even if you were injured while your vessel was at a foreign port or another nation's territorial waters.

Injuries that occur on the seas can be very serious or even catastrophic. There are multiple Jones Act attorneys available; therefore, you should complete your due diligence when selecting one. The Jones Act attorneys of Williams Kherkher are available for a free consultation. Contact us to schedule one today 866.950.9000.