Admiralty/Marine Overview

Admiralty or marine law governs offenses related to shipping, and navigating bodies of water. U.S. admiralty law covers a range of issues that arise in U.S. waters, from commerce to recreational boating. Admiralty law also covers such issues as injuries and damaged cargo.

If you are on a boat or own a boat that crashes into another boat, or a dock, pier, or wharf, admiralty law applies. If someone is injured in the crash, if cargo is damaged, or if the boat sinks and causes a gas spill, admiralty law assigns responsibility and determines who has to pay.