What is Admiralty and Maritime Law?
Admiralty and maritime law is a complex body of statutes and case law developed over the course of many years to regulate the relations between ship owners, cargo owners, passengers and crews of vessels operating in coastal and international waters.
Why would I need a specialist in Maritime Law?
Most people -- and in fact most lawyers -- are unfamiliar with this body of law. Federal statutes and tickets of passage create statute of limitations, venue, and other issues that are unique to maritime law. Vessel owners, and in particular their insurers and representatives, have a far greater knowledge of these laws and procedures than you do. With far-reaching and costly consequences to the injury victim, substantial sums tend to be at risk.
A capable maritime lawyer on your side can eliminate the advantage vessel owners and their insurers have in dealing with your claim.
Why would I need a maritime lawyer based in Florida?
In the majority of cases, if you were a passenger on a cruise ship, you most likely have a Forum Selection Clause on your cruise ticket requiring that any suit must be brought in either Miami-Dade County or Broward County. Whatever the designation, it will be in a court in south Florida.
What does it mean to be Board Certified in Maritime Law?
The Florida Bar tests and certifies attorneys who are specialists in particular fields of law. Extensive experience and rigorous testing are required in an effort to ensure that certified attorneys possess the knowledge and experience to well represent their clients in these areas. Andrew Waks is Board Certified in Maritime Law by the Florida Bar.
How does Waks & Barnett determine its fees?
Waks & Barnett provides free consultations on all personal injury matters. If we accept a case, our fee is contingent upon a successful outcome and is based upon the amount of money we recover for our clients. The Florida Bar regulates these amounts.
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