Wrongful Death

Published on: August 26, 2025

Meeting Fishing Vessel Safety Act Requirements: 2025-2026 Compliance Guide

Commercial fishing remains one of America’s most dangerous occupations, with fatality rates significantly higher than most other industries. The Commercial Fishing Industry Vessel Safety Act, enacted following tragic losses at sea, establishes minimum safety requirements that can mean the difference between life and death. Here is a comprehensive guide for mariners to ensure compliance for 2025-2026.

Determine Your Vessel’s Classification

Establish which regulations apply to your operation. The Fishing Vessel Safety Act applies to commercial fishing vessels, with different requirements based on vessel size, operation area, and crew capacity. Documented vessels operating beyond the U.S. Boundary Line (the dividing point between internal and offshore waters) or carrying more than 16 persons face the most rigorous requirements, while smaller operations have modified standards. Check your vessel’s documentation and operating parameters against current U.S. Coast Guard classifications. This determines everything from equipment requirements to training obligations.

Published on: August 5, 2025

Titan Submersible Implosion Was “Preventable,” Says Final Coast Guard Report

by Nigel Stacey

On August 5, 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation released its report on the Titan submersible loss. The sub imploded in June 2023 while on a dive to the Titanic, killing all five people on board.

The Report of Investigation (ROI), which is over 300 pages long, details the key findings and contributing factors that led to the incident. It also includes 17 safety recommendations. These recommendations are designed to improve oversight of submersible operations, enhance coordination among federal agencies, and address differences in international maritime policy.

Based on the U.S. Coast Guard report, OceanGate’s director of marine operations, who was responsible for crew and client safety, testified that the company ignored his safety concerns. He stated that the company prioritized “image and marketing” over building a safe and reliable operation.

Published on: March 11, 2025

How to Choose the Right Maritime Injury Lawyer

by Joseph Stacey

Selecting the right maritime injury lawyer requires careful consideration and research. Prioritizing expertise, experience, effective communication, and transparency will significantly enhance the likelihood of obtaining fair compensation and justice for your injuries. Your choice of attorney can make all the difference in achieving a successful resolution to your maritime injury claim.

Specialized Maritime Law Experience

The first and most crucial factor is choosing a lawyer who specializes in maritime or admiralty law. Maritime injury cases are governed by unique federal laws like the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and principles like Maintenance and Cure. An attorney experienced in these complex statutes can better evaluate your situation, navigate jurisdictional nuances, and effectively advocate for your rights.

Published on: November 7, 2023

Conception Vessel Captain Found Guilty of Negligence in Fire that Killed 34

by Nigel Stacey

On the afternoon of November 6th, 2023, a federal court jury in Los Angeles found Jerry Nehl Boylan, the captain of the M/V CONCEPTION, guilty of gross negligence in the tragic maritime incident that claimed the lives of 34 individuals.

The M/V CONCEPTION, a 75-foot vessel, caught fire on Monday, September 2, 2019 while anchored. The fire swiftly engulfed the boat, resulting in its sinking and the tragic loss of 34 lives. Five crew members, including Boylan, managed to escape and survive.

Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented evidence and contended that Boylan, displayed negligence by failing to initiate a night watch or roving patrol, insufficient fire drills, poor crew training, and neglected to provide firefighting instructions or utilize available firefighting equipment. This evidence highlighted a series of failures on the part of Captain Boylan that significantly contributed to this tragedy. Boylan, who was responsible for the safety and security of the vessel, its passengers, and its crew, has been found guilty of his failures.

Published on: June 27, 2023

Titan Loss: Marine Board of Investigation Assembled

by Nigel Stacey

Oceangate_Titan-300x206 The U.S. Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the “catastrophic implosion” of the privately-owned underwater vessel TITAN. The vessel was destroyed while en route to the wreckage site of the TITANTIC, resulting in the tragic loss of all five individuals on board.

On Sunday, June 18, 2023, the TITAN lost contact with the crew aboard the POLAR PRINCE research vessel after approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Following an exhaustive search and rescue operation, the remains of the TITAN submersible were discovered on the ocean floor, about 500 meters away from the bow of the TITANTIC. The loss of the TITAN submersible and its five occupants has prompted the U.S. Coast Guard to assemble a Marine Board of Investigation (MBI).

The MBI is the highest level of investigation within the U.S. Coast Guard. Once the investigation is finalized, the Board will compile a report containing evidence, established facts, conclusions, and recommendations. Captain Jason Neubauer has served as the chief of the Office of Investigations & Analysis at U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters since July 2014. He is responsible for overseeing marine casualty investigations, suspension and revocation cases involving credentialed mariners, violation investigations and data analysis for the U.S. Coast Guard’s prevention operations.