American maritime law has a rich and complex history that spans over centuries. It governs activities, disputes, and transactions occurring on navigable waters, including oceans, rivers, and lakes. This legal domain covers a wide array of matters, such as shipping, navigation, waters, commerce, seamen, and the transportation of goods and passengers. The evolution of the country’s maritime law reflects the nation’s growth from a collection of British colonies into a world-leading maritime power.
The roots of American maritime law trace back to the British maritime legal traditions and the Laws of Oleron, a code adopted in the 12th century and later the British Admiralty Court. When the American colonies were established, they inherited these legal principles. During the early years of the United States, maritime law began to take a distinct American shape, influenced by the new nation’s needs and the Constitution, which granted the federal judiciary the power to resolve cases of admiralty and maritime jurisdiction. The 19th century was a period of rapid expansion and significant change for American maritime law. The increase in maritime commerce, the advent of steam-powered vessels, and the expansion of the nation’s borders necessitated a more structured and unified legal framework. Key legislative acts, such as the Judiciary Act of 1789, established the jurisdiction of federal courts over admiralty and maritime matters. Moreover, landmark Supreme Court cases, such as Gibbons v. Ogden (1824), helped define the scope of maritime law and federal authority over navigable waters.
The American Civil War had profound implications for maritime law, with the Union’s naval blockade of Confederate ports and the issue of prize law—concerning the capture and seizure of enemy vessels—taking center stage. Post-war, the focus shifted towards rebuilding and regulating maritime commerce, leading to significant legislation like the Shipping Act of 1916, which addressed issues of maritime commerce and labor.
The 20th century witnessed an unprecedented level of regulatory intervention in maritime affairs. The sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912 led to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) in 1914, influencing American maritime safety regulations. The Merchant Marine Act of 1920, also known as the Jones Act, marked a cornerstone in American maritime law, regulating maritime commerce in U.S. waters and between U.S. ports and providing rights to seamen. During World War II, maritime law played a crucial role in the Lend-Lease Act and the management of the U.S. Merchant Marine. The post-war era saw further developments, including the adoption of international conventions on maritime pollution and safety, which were incorporated into U.S. law.
Our experienced lawyers handle maritime personal injury and wrongful death litigation of all kinds and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured as a result of a maritime accident. The lawyers of Spagnoletti Law Firm have handled maritime lawsuits throughout the country.
The experienced and aggressive vessel accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident on a ship. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to maritime injuries, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 to learn more about your rights.