DO YOU NEED HELP WITH HOW TO GET AN IDEAL JONES ACT LAWYER?
Many sailors need legal assistance when they get injured on the job. For those who work on a maritime vessel, hiring a lawyer is necessary after nerve-racking situations such as this. When seeking a qualified attorney to represent you, there are factors that you should keep in mind. Some of the guidelines for choosing a good attorney include:
The Attorney Should Be Informed Of Maritime Law
It is simply not enough for your potential Jones Act lawyer to be experienced and knowledgeable about the law. The professional must also have extensive knowledge of maritime law. Vessels that navigate navigable waterways fall under federal maritime jurisdiction. The Maritime Law governs many of these vessels and their rights and responsibilities towards employees injured during work. Your lawyer must be well-versed in all of its rulings, case law, and amendments to provide you with the best representation possible.
Has The Attorney Handled Jones Act Cases?
Not all Jones Act lawyers have experience of litigating these types of cases. You must select an attorney who has a proven track record in successfully litigating Jones Act injury claims. This will give you the peace of mind that your case is in good hands and increase the likelihood of securing a favorable outcome.
Is The Professional Licensed to Practice Law in Your State?
While maritime law is federal, each state has its own specific regulations regarding practice area and jurisdiction. Make sure that the lawyer you choose has a license to practice law in your state. If not, you may risk having the case moved to federal court, which will result in extra legal fees and red tape.
Is there a Guarantee of Success?
This is an important question to ask your potential Jones Act lawyer when searching for representation. Most lawyers will offer a free consultation so that you can get all of your questions answered before you sign any paperwork. Usually, if a lawyer guarantees their services, they are confident about their abilities and credentials in representing injured seamen.
Has The Lawyer Received Awards or Recognition from the Maritime Bar Association?
While an attorney does not need to have been recognized by the bar association to represent you, it can indicate that they are respected among their peers in the maritime law community. It is important that your lawyer not only has experience in successfully litigating these claims but also is knowledgeable about the latest rulings and amendments to the law when representing injured seamen.
Is Your Attorney Board Certified?
Board Certification is not a requirement for practicing law, but it usually serves as an indicator of competence and experience in the eyes of clients and peers. If your attorney has failed any part of this test, you might want to reconsider working with that person. Clients who select board-certified attorneys can be more confident, knowing that their lawyer has met high standards set by their peers. Suppose you or someone you know was injured in a boating accident and needs legal representation.
Has The Lawyer Successfully Handled Cases Like Yours Before?
When searching for representation, compensation should never be the only factor to consider. Although an injured seaman always welcomes a higher final settlement, being satisfied with the case’s outcome is more important. Make sure to ask your lawyer about their experience in litigating cases similar to yours. If so, you can be confident that they understand the complexities of maritime law and are well-equipped to handle your case.
The Jones Act is the federal law that provides compensation to injured maritime workers. The Act applies to injuries that arise in or in the course of employment on navigable waters within the United States, including any adjoining pier, wharf, dock, terminal, in building, marine railway, or another adjoining area customarily used by an employer in loading, unloading, repairing or building a vessel.