#75 MARITIME LAWYERS Buyer Checklist You Need To Know Before You Spend Your Money. 25 Buyer-Beware Intelligence Points.

Legal Information Notice: This checklist provides general educational information only. It is not legal advice, does not create an attorney-client relationship, and may not apply to your jurisdiction or circumstances. Laws and deadlines vary. Do not rely on this checklist for a specific legal decision or deadline; consult a qualified attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.

“In maritime injury cases, your job and status can change which legal system applies.”

The Department of Labor explains that the Jones Act and Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act are separate regimes covering different categories of maritime employees.

25 Buyer-Beware Warnings

1. ☐ Identify your maritime occupation.
2. ☐ Identify your employer.
3. ☐ Identify vessel status.
4. ☐ Identify where the injury occurred.
5. ☐ Determine worker classification.
6. ☐ Preserve employment records.
7. ☐ Preserve medical records.
8. ☐ Document vessel conditions.
9. ☐ Photograph hazards where possible.
10. ☐ Identify witnesses.
11. ☐ Record incident details.
12. ☐ Preserve safety reports.
13. ☐ Preserve maintenance information where available.
14. ☐ Document employer communications.
15. ☐ Don’t assume ordinary workers’ compensation rules apply.
16. ☐ Ask whether Jones Act issues are relevant.
17. ☐ Ask whether LHWCA issues are relevant.
18. ☐ Verify maritime specialization.
19. ☐ Understand fee arrangements.
20. ☐ Track deadlines.
21. ☐ Don’t sign releases casually.
22. ☐ Preserve evidence.
23. ☐ Document lost wages.
24. ☐ Document future work limitations.
25. ☐ Obtain jurisdiction-specific advice.