Interactive Maritime Attorney Directory

Maritime Attorney Directory

Find Your Advocate

When an accident occurs at sea, finding the right legal help can feel overwhelming. This directory is a comprehensive, meticulously researched resource created to empower injured maritime workers. Use this tool to identify and connect with experienced, dedicated legal representation in Houston and across the nation.

Houston’s Premier Maritime Firms

A spotlight on top-tier firms with national reputations for handling complex maritime injury cases.

Comprehensive Houston Attorney Directory

Firm / Attorney Name	Contact	Key Practice Areas	Credentials

National Maritime Law Hub

Experienced maritime firms in other key U.S. port cities. Select a city to view listings.

A Seaman’s Guide to Maritime Law

Understand the fundamental laws that protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about choosing a maritime attorney.

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Finding Your Advocate: Houston’s Premier Maritime Legal Directory

When a maritime accident occurs, the consequences can be devastating, leading to serious injury, overwhelming medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. For seamen, longshoremen, and offshore workers in Houston, navigating the complex web of maritime law—from the Jones Act to Maintenance and Cure—can feel like an impossible task, especially when you are trying to recover. The sheer number of law firms in Houston, many claiming to be the best and citing billions of dollars recovered, can create confusion and decision paralysis at a time when you need clarity and decisive action most.

This directory is designed to cut through the noise. It is a comprehensive, meticulously researched resource created to empower injured maritime workers. Here, you will find the information you need to identify and connect with experienced, dedicated, and effective legal representation in Houston and other major port cities across the United States. This page serves as both a detailed directory and an educational guide. You will find a spotlight on Houston’s most prominent firms, a comprehensive table of attorneys and their credentials, and clear explanations of the fundamental laws that protect your rights. Our goal is to provide you with a single, trusted resource to help you find the advocate who will fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.

Spotlight on Houston’s Elite: Top-Tier Maritime Law Firms

For those seeking a starting point in their search, the following firms have established national reputations for handling complex, high-stakes maritime injury cases. Their track records are not just defined by the immense sums they have recovered, but by the unique approaches and deep expertise they bring to the table, which can be a critical factor when facing large corporations and their insurance companies.

Arnold & Itkin LLP With a staggering $20 billion recovered for clients, Arnold & Itkin stands as a national powerhouse in maritime litigation. The firm is renowned for its willingness and ability to take on the most complex and challenging Jones Act cases, often setting state and national records with their victories. Their large team and multi-state offices in Texas, Louisiana, and beyond provide the resources necessary to litigate against the largest maritime corporations in the world. For an injured worker, the firm’s sheer scale and history of success signal that they possess the firepower to level the playing field, ensuring that no opponent is too large or too powerful to be held accountable.
The Krist Law Firm, P.C. Led by Scott Krist, an attorney with over 32 years of experience, The Krist Law Firm has a documented history of securing some of the largest recoveries in Texas, including a landmark $15.1 million maritime accident verdict. What sets this firm apart is the blend of record-setting results with a deeply personal commitment to clients. Mr. Krist’s philosophy, “I really get very close to my clients. I fight for them like I would one of my friends,” speaks directly to the need for trust and compassion during a difficult time. This approach assures clients that their case will be handled not just with elite legal skill, but with genuine care and dedication to their personal well-being.
Patrick Daniel Law Patrick Daniel offers a rare and powerful advantage: he has argued maritime injury cases from both sides of the courtroom. This experience provides an invaluable, inside perspective on the strategies and tactics used by the defense, allowing him to anticipate their moves and build a stronger case for his clients. A Louisiana native with 20 years of experience along the Gulf Coast, he possesses a fundamental understanding of the grueling work that goes on at sea. This, combined with a long list of accolades including “Lawyer of the Year” and membership in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, makes his firm a compelling choice for seamen who value a lawyer with both legal prowess and authentic industry insight.
Morrow & Sheppard LLP This award-winning firm demonstrates its success not only through its claim of winning cases in excess of $1 billion but through concrete, detailed examples of their victories. Highlighting specific results, such as a $3.2 million verdict for a deckhand in an offshore injury case, provides tangible proof of their ability to deliver for individual clients. This transparency builds credibility. By showcasing specific successes in cases involving reckless decisions and unsafe equipment, they demonstrate a deep understanding of the common causes of maritime injuries and a proven ability to hold negligent companies accountable, which is a critical concern for any injured worker.

Comprehensive Directory of Houston Maritime Attorneys

The following table provides a detailed list of maritime attorneys and law firms serving the Houston area. It is designed to be a practical tool, allowing you to quickly compare firms based on their contact information, areas of specialization, and key credentials.

Firm / Attorney Name	Contact Information	Key Practice Areas	Noteworthy Details & Credentials
Amaro Law Firm	(713) 352-7975 Houston, TX	Jones Act, LHWCA, DOHSA, Offshore Injury, Oil Rig Explosions	5-star ratings on Google/Facebook, Founder is a “Super Lawyer” (2016-2024), Free Consultation
Arnold & Itkin LLP	(888) 493-1629 6009 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007	Jones Act Claims, Offshore Injuries, LHWCA, Plant & Refinery Accidents	Over $20 Billion recovered, Nationwide service, Free Consultation, Moves cases fast
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers	(713) 500-5000 Houston, TX	Jones Act, Maritime Law, Personal Injury	45+ years combined experience, Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer, Free Consultation
Doyle Dennis Avery LLP	(713) 571-1146 3401 Allen Parkway, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77019	Maritime Injury, Jones Act, Maintenance and Cure, International Claims	Nationally recognized, Contingent Fee Basis, Proven Trial Record, Offices in Houston & Galveston
Gordon & Elias, L.L.P.	(800) 773-6770 1811 Bering Drive, #300, Houston, TX 77057	Jones Act, LHWCA, Offshore Injuries, Tugboat & Barge Injuries	60 years combined experience, Contingency basis, Spanish spoken, Free Consultation
Johnson Garcia LLP	832-844-6700 7324 Southwest Fwy, Suite 545, Houston, TX 77074	Jones Act, DOHSA, LHWCA, Maritime Explosions, Maintenance & Cure	35+ years experience, 24/7 Support, Contingency basis, Free Case Evaluation
The Krist Law Firm, P.C.	(281) 283-8500 17100 El Camino Real, Houston, TX 77058	Maritime Accidents, Jones Act, Wrongful Death, Offshore Injuries	Record-setting recoveries, 32+ years experience (Scott Krist), Free Consultation
Makris Law Firm, P.C.	Houston, TX	LHWCA, Social Security Disability, Personal Injury	Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Law (Victor Makris), Spanish spoken, Free Evaluation
Mithoff Law	713-654-1122 Houston, TX	LHWCA, Offshore Accidents, Catastrophic Injury	Trial-tested strategies, Founder described as “one of the nation’s highest profile litigators”
Morrow & Sheppard LLP	(800) 489-2216 5151 San Felipe Street, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77056	Jones Act Claims, LHWCA, Offshore Accidents, Wrongful Death	Over $1 Billion recovered, Contingency fee (“Only Pay If You Win”), Free Consultation
Patrick Daniel Law	(713) 999-6666 4801 Woodway Dr., Suite 440-W, Houston, TX 77056	Maritime Injury, Jones Act, Deck/Platform/Barge Accidents	Founder argued cases from both sides, 20 years experience, Contingency fee, Free Consultation
Pierce Skrabanek	(832) 690-7000 24 Greenway Plaza, Suite 500, Houston, TX 77046	Jones Act, LHWCA, DOHSA, Oil Rig Injuries, Offshore Platforms	Over $500M recovered, Largest personal injury verdict in Louisiana history, Free Consultation
Royston Rayzor	713.224.8380 Houston, TX	Admiralty & Maritime Defense, P&I, Hull & Machinery, LHWCA	“Tier one” admiralty firm (U.S. News), 24/7 emergency response, Texas Super Lawyers
Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P.	713-893-0971 3200 Travis #300, Houston, TX 77006	Jones Act, LHWCA, DOHSA, Oil Rig Accidents, Cruise Ship Accidents	145+ years collective trial experience, Nationwide service, Free Consultation
**Sneed	Mitchell LLP**	(713) 800-6676 2525 Robinhood Street, Houston, Texas 77005	Admiralty, Jones Act, LHWCA, DOHSA, Injuries in Foreign Waters
Williams Hart & Boundas	713-230-2200 Houston, TX	Maritime Accidents, Jones Act, Admiralty Law	Decades of experience, Spanish spoken, Free initial case evaluation
Zehl & Associates	1-888-603-3636 2700 Post Oak Blvd Ste 1000, Houston, TX 77056	LHWCA, Offshore Injury, Rig Explosions, Jones Act	Billions won, Undefeated in court, Contingency fee, Free Consultation
Gregory S. Baumgartner	(281) 587-1111 Houston, TX 77069	Maritime, Personal Injury, Insurance Claims	10.0 Peer Review rating, Free Consultation
Clay Dugas	(800) 222-1204 Houston, TX 77056	Maritime Law, Personal Injury, Construction	44 years of experience, Free Consultation

A Seaman’s Guide to Texas Maritime Law

Understanding your fundamental rights is the first step toward protecting them. Maritime law is a specialized federal field with unique rules that differ significantly from land-based workers’ compensation. Here are simple explanations of the key laws that may apply to your case.

The Jones Act (The Merchant Marine Act of 1920) The Jones Act is a federal law that provides seamen with the right to sue their employers for negligence. To qualify as a “Jones Act Seaman,” you must generally spend a significant amount of your work time (typically 30% or more) contributing to the mission of a vessel or fleet of vessels “in navigation”. Unlike state workers’ compensation, the Jones Act is a fault-based system. This means you must prove that your employer’s negligence, however slight, played a role in causing your injury. Negligence can include a wide range of unsafe conditions, such as malfunctioning equipment, oil on the deck, improper training, or an unsafe work process. If successful, a seaman can recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages (past and future), pain and suffering, and mental anguish.
Maintenance and Cure This is one of the oldest and most fundamental rights of a seaman. If you are injured or fall ill while “in the service of the ship,” your employer is obligated to pay for your medical expenses until you reach “Maximum Medical Improvement” (MMI) and provide a daily living stipend, known as maintenance. Maintenance and Cure is a “no-fault” benefit, meaning you are entitled to it regardless of who caused the injury. An employer who unreasonably and arbitrarily denies these benefits can be sued for additional damages, including attorney’s fees and punitive damages.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) The LHWCA is a federal workers’ compensation system that covers maritime workers who are not seamen under the Jones Act. This typically includes longshoremen, dock workers, ship repairers, shipbuilders, and harbor construction workers. To be eligible, a worker must satisfy both a “status test” (their job involves maritime duties) and a “situs test” (the injury occurred on or near navigable waters, such as a pier, dock, or terminal). The LHWCA provides for medical benefits and compensation for lost wages without the need to prove employer fault. In some cases, an LHWCA-covered worker may also be able to file a third-party negligence lawsuit against a party other than their employer, such as a negligent vessel owner.
The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) When a maritime worker’s death is caused by a wrongful act, neglect, or default occurring on the high seas (beyond 3 nautical miles from the shore of any state), the DOHSA allows the decedent’s personal representative to file a lawsuit for the benefit of the surviving spouse, parent, or child.Recoverable damages typically include financial losses, such as the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, funeral expenses, and counseling expenses.

National Maritime Law Hub: Attorneys in Major U.S. Ports

While Houston is a major hub, maritime commerce and accidents are a reality in port cities across the country. To provide a truly comprehensive resource, this directory includes a curated list of experienced maritime law firms in other key locations.

New Orleans, LA

A historic port at the mouth of the Mississippi River, New Orleans has a deep-rooted maritime industry and a legal community with extensive experience in both bluewater and brownwater issues.

The Young Firm: 30+ years of Jones Act experience, client-focused, nationwide representation based in New Orleans. Phone: (504) 680-4100.
Lewis, Kullman, Sterbcow & Abramson, LLC: Nationally recognized litigation firm, involved in the BP/Transocean case, represents all types of maritime workers. Offers free consultation.
Jones Walker LLP: Large, cross-disciplinary team with over 80 years of experience, handling transactional, regulatory, and litigation matters for domestic and international clients. Phone: 504.582.8315.
Murphy, Rogers, Sloss, Gambel & Tompkins: Represents insurance companies and P&I Clubs, with expertise in personal injury defense, collisions, and cargo claims. Phone: 504-523-0400.
Sher Garner Cahill Richter Klein & Hilbert, L.L.C.: Represents oil companies, vessel operators, and tug/barge owners in claims involving personal injury, cargo, and marine insurance.

Miami, FL

As a global center for the cruise ship industry and a major cargo port, Miami’s maritime legal landscape is heavily focused on passenger injuries, crew member claims, and international shipping disputes.

Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A.: “America’s Leading Maritime Lawyers” with over $300 million recovered and 50+ years of experience, specializing in cruise ship and seafarer claims. Phone: (888) 967-5020.
Hickey Law Firm, P.A.: Founder John H. (Jack) Hickey is triple Board-Certified in Civil Trial and Admiralty & Maritime Law. Recovers $100+ million for clients. Phone: 305-686-3195.
Meister Law, LLC: Led by Tonya Meister, a Florida board-certified specialist in admiralty and maritime law, representing clients worldwide in injury and environmental claims. Phone: 786-623-4162.
McAlpin Florez Marcotte: Over 35 years of leadership in admiralty and maritime defense, representing recreational boating interests, cruise lines, and handling personal injury defense. Phone: 305-810-5400.
Moore & Co.: Specializes in both litigation and transactional matters for yachts and other vessels, with attorneys admitted in FL, LA, NY, and DC. Phone: (786) 221-0600.
Harper Meyer: Caters to high-net-worth clientele on matters of yacht finance, registration, and tax planning, with experience throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

Long Beach, CA

The Port of Long Beach, combined with the neighboring Port of Los Angeles, is one of the busiest container ports in the world, making it a focal point for LHWCA claims, cargo disputes, and commercial vessel accidents.

Law Offices of Charles D. Naylor: 50 years of experience representing cruise ship passengers and maritime workers, located at the center of the Ports of LA and Long Beach. Phone: 888-440-5829.
Law Offices of Preston Easley: Founder is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with over 30 years of experience in maritime law, representing longshoremen, seamen, and diving accident victims.
Peacock Piper Tong + Voss LLP: Features attorneys recognized as “Super Lawyers” and “Rising Stars” in maritime law.
Jahani Law P.C.: Led by Captain Masoud Jahani, a Master Mariner and attorney, offering unique expertise in maritime and immigration law. Phone: (310) 972-9446.
Collier Walsh Nakazawa LLP: Features Joseph A. Walsh, II, a “Super Lawyers” honoree in maritime law.

Seattle, WA

Seattle is a critical hub for the Alaskan fishing fleet, commercial shipping to Asia, and a thriving ferry system. Its maritime law practice is robust, with a strong focus on Jones Act claims for fishermen and seamen, as well as ferry and vessel accidents.

Stacey & Jacobsen, PLLC: A leading maritime injury firm that has handled thousands of Jones Act claims and high-profile vessel sinkings like the Alaska Ranger. Represents workers only. Phone: 877-332-5529.
BOATLAW, LLP: Decades of experience handling maritime personal injury for workers in Puget Sound and the Bering Sea, with offices in Seattle, Bellingham, Portland, and San Francisco. Phone: 1-800-262-8529.
International Maritime Group, PLLC: A boutique firm specializing in complex maritime transactions, finance, and disputes for businesses and financial institutions. Phone: +1 (206) 707-8338.
Preg O’Donnell & Gillett: Handles complex maritime cases including Jones Act, wrongful death, and vessel construction for clients like vessel owners and shipyards.
Kraft Davies Olsson PLLC: Features Richard J. Davies, a “Super Lawyers” honoree with 30 years of experience, offering free consultations. Phone: (206) 624-8844.

Norfolk, VA

Home to one of the world’s largest naval bases and a major commercial port, Norfolk’s legal community is well-versed in the Defense Base Act, government contracts, and traditional maritime personal injury and LHWCA claims.

Montagna Maritime Law: 50+ years of experience serving the Hampton Roads area in Jones Act, Maintenance and Cure, and wrongful death claims. Phone: 757-622-8100.
Woods Rogers (F. Nash Bilisoly): Practice focuses on representing shipyards, terminals, and vessels in Jones Act and LHWCA defense, with extensive legislative experience.
Law Offices of Richard J. Serpe, PC: Attorney Richard Serpe has 39 years of experience and is recognized as a “Super Lawyer” in maritime law. Phone: (877) 544-5323.
Kaufman & Canoles, P.C.: A firm with attorneys like Patrick M. Brogan recognized as “Super Lawyers” in the maritime field.
Ventker Henderson Stancliff, PLLC: Features multiple “Super Lawyers” honorees, including David N. Ventker and Marissa M. Henderson.

Charleston, SC

A rapidly growing container port with a rich maritime history, Charleston’s legal practice handles a mix of cargo claims, recreational boating accidents, and personal injury claims for seamen and harbor workers.

Barnwell Whaley: Represents port facilities, stevedores, and shipping concerns in Jones Act, DOHSA, cargo claims, and maritime insurance matters. Phone: 843-577-7700.
Popowski Law Firm, LLC: Represents individuals, harbor workers, and insurance companies in cases involving cruise ship injuries, vessel arrests, and Jones Act claims. Phone: 843-722-8301.
Hines & Gilsenan LLC: Founded by proctors in admiralty, the firm represents steamship lines, towing companies, and pilot associations in casualty response and litigation.
Bluestein Law Firm, P.A.: A boutique practice focusing almost exclusively on admiralty and maritime law, recognized by “Super Lawyers”. Phone: 843-577-3092.
Tecklenburg, Jenkins & Jacoby, LLC: Billed as “South Carolina’s Top Maritime Lawyers,” providing services in maritime, transportation, and transactional law. Phone: (843) 534-2628.

Savannah, GA

The Port of Savannah is one of the busiest and fastest-growing ports in the nation, leading to a high demand for legal expertise in logistics, cargo claims, LHWCA, and vessel collisions.

HunterMaclean: Represents major P&I Clubs, domestic marine insurers, ship owners, and global cruise lines in a wide range of maritime litigation and regulatory matters. Phone: 912.236.0261.
Ellis Painter Attorneys at Law: Long history representing Savannah’s maritime community, including P&I Clubs, insurers, terminal owners, and pilots in cargo cases, personal injury, and vessel arrests. Phone: (912) 233.9700.
Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P.: A national firm with a strong presence assisting Savannah residents with Jones Act, LHWCA, and DOHSA claims. Phone: 1-800-836-5830.
Roden Law: Focuses on helping injured maritime workers pursue compensation under the Jones Act and LHWCA, offering free consultations. Phone: 1-844-RESULTS.
Oliver Maner LLP: Features David Bobo Mullens, a “Rising Stars” honoree in maritime law.

New York, NY & New Jersey

The Port of New York and New Jersey is the busiest on the East Coast, with a corresponding legal industry that handles a massive volume of complex international trade disputes, marine insurance coverage issues, cargo claims, and personal injury litigation.

Hofmann & Schweitzer: Over 35 years of experience with a strong reputation in maritime injury litigation, representing seamen, dock workers, and harbor workers in NY, NJ, and nationwide. Phone: (800) 362-9329.
Brown Gavalas & Fromm LLP: A leading maritime firm known for litigating marine casualties and disputes for vessel owners, charterers, and their underwriters in NY and NJ.
Kaufman Dolowich: Over 100 years of collective experience representing vessel interests, marine terminals, stevedores, and shipyards in NY, NJ, CT, and MA.
Stewart Lee Karlin Law Group, PC: A full-service maritime firm with offices in NY, NJ, and FL, handling marine insurance claims and admiralty disputes.
Wilson Elser: A U.S. Chambers-ranked practice with a national and international scope, litigating the full spectrum of maritime claims.

FAQ: Choosing Your Maritime Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a maritime injury raises many questions. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns.

How much does a maritime lawyer cost? Nearly all reputable maritime personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees. The attorney’s fee is a percentage of the final settlement or verdict they win for you. If they do not recover any money for you, you owe them no fee. This model allows injured workers to access top-tier legal representation without any out-of-pocket expense.
What’s the difference between the Jones Act and LHWCA? The main difference is who they cover. The Jones Act specifically protects “seamen”—crew members who work on a vessel in navigation. It allows them to sue their employer for negligence. The LHWCA is a workers’ compensation system for other maritime employees who are not seamen, such as dock workers, shipbuilders, and harbor workers. It provides benefits without needing to prove fault. An experienced attorney can determine which law applies to your specific situation.
When should I contact a maritime lawyer after an injury? You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your injury. Maritime companies and their insurance adjusters will start their investigation immediately, and their goal is to limit their financial liability. An attorney can protect your rights, preserve crucial evidence, and prevent you from making mistakes—like signing away your rights or giving a recorded statement—that could harm your claim.
What should I do after a maritime injury? The steps you take immediately after an accident are critical. First, report the injury to your supervisor and ensure an official accident report is created. Second, seek immediate medical attention from a doctor of your own choosing, not just the company-recommended physician. Third, document everything: take photos of the accident scene and your injuries, get contact information from any witnesses, and keep detailed notes about your symptoms and medical treatment. Finally, do not sign any documents or accept a settlement offer from your employer or their insurer without first speaking to a qualified maritime attorney.
Why do so many lawyers mention ‘billions won’? What does that mean for my case? When a law firm advertises “billions won,” it serves as a powerful signal of their experience, resources, and success in high-stakes litigation. It indicates that the firm has a long history of taking on large, well-funded corporations and insurance companies and winning. For your individual case, it suggests that the firm has the financial stability to fund complex litigation, hire the best experts, and will not be intimidated into accepting a low settlement offer. It is a credential that demonstrates a proven ability to achieve maximum compensation for clients.