Legal Definitions - maritime jurisdiction

Maritime Jurisdiction

Maritime jurisdiction refers to the authority of U.S. district courts to handle cases related to maritime law. This includes cases involving ships, boats, and other vessels, as well as maritime contracts, injuries, and other legal issues that occur on the water.

• A case involving a cargo ship that was damaged during a storm and resulted in a dispute between the ship owner and the cargo owner would fall under maritime jurisdiction.
• A lawsuit filed by a crew member who was injured while working on a fishing boat would also be considered a maritime case.

These examples illustrate how maritime jurisdiction applies to legal issues that occur on the water, whether it involves ships, boats, or other vessels. The U.S. district courts have the authority to handle these cases and ensure that maritime law is upheld.