When I practice maritime law, my focus is always on risk. It doesn’t matter if we’re discussing a simple cargo claim or complex litigation over a collision – the underlying concern remains: who bears responsibility when things go wrong? The traditional model of liability was straightforwardly physical; you damaged something, and the law helped determine […]
Author: John Wolf
When the Engine Room Is Digital: Understanding Cyber Liability in Modern Maritime Law
In my years practicing maritime law, I’ve seen what happens when things go wrong – a collision, a cargo mishap, or a poorly drafted contract. Those are predictable risks; they have clear legal precedents built up over centuries of shipping history. We know where the liability lies because we can point to a physical object: […]
Resolving Underwater Welding Death Settlements: A Legal Perspective
As John Wolf, a seasoned attorney with over a decade of experience in maritime law, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that arise when dealing with underwater welding-related fatalities. These cases not only demand a deep understanding of the law but also an empathetic approach towards the grieving families seeking justice.
FuelEU Maritime 2026: Compliance Roadmap
Executive Summary: Starting January 1, 2026, the EU’s FuelEU Maritime regulation imposes strict greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity limits on all ships above 5,000 gross tons calling at EU ports. Non-compliance carries heavy penalties – up to €2,400 per 24 hours of non-compliance. This compliance roadmap explains your obligations and strategic options.
Jones Act vs. OCSLA: Seaman Status Determination
Executive Summary: Whether an offshore worker qualifies as a “seaman” under the Jones Act or as an offshore employee under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) often determines whether they receive lifetime compensation or limited federal benefits. The distinction rests on seaman status – one of the most litigated issues in maritime law.
OCSLA vs. Jones Act: Coverage & Compensation
Executive Summary: Offshore injuries are governed by overlapping laws, but the difference between the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) and the Jones Act determines how much compensation an injured worker can recover. Understanding where you were injured and your connection to a vessel often decides whether your claim is worth thousands – or hundreds […]
Sue Shipping Company for Cargo Damage: Break COGSA Limits & Win Full Recovery
Carriers think they’re untouchable. They wreck your cargo, deny the claim, and hide behind $500 COGSA limits. I’ve sued them. Won. Here’s exactly how you sue shipping company for cargo damage and get every penny back. Don’t let them cheat you. The law lets you punch through their defenses if you know where to hit.
USCG Documentation vs. State Registration: The $26 Difference Protecting Your Boat
In my practice, I often handle the sale of vessels. The first question I ask a seller is, “Is the boat Documented?” If the answer is “No, it just has a Florida title,” the transaction immediately becomes more dangerous for the buyer. Why? because state titles are notoriously easy to forge or “wash” of liens. […]
Importing a Sailboat to the USA: The Legal Traps
Executive Summary: Buying a sailboat in the Caribbean or Mediterranean often looks like a bargain—until you try to bring it home. While most buyers obsess over the 1.5% import duty, the real legal risks lie in EPA engine compliance and Jones Act trade restrictions. Failing these checks can turn an asset into a liability you […]
Maintenance and Cure: Why Your $40/Day Check Is Illegal
Immediate Action: If you are receiving $30 or $40 a day for “maintenance,” you are likely being underpaid. Do not sign any agreement stating this rate is final. If you are a seaman injured on the job, you are entitled to “Maintenance and Cure.” This is the most basic, ancient right in maritime law. Yet, […]