Navigating the Complexities of Maritime Litigation Across the Gulf Coast

The maritime industry is the lifeblood of the Gulf Coast economy, but it is governed by a unique and complex web of federal statutes and international treaties. At RAP Law, we provide sophisticated legal defense for vessel owners, insurers, and maritime businesses facing litigation in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.

Based in Mandeville, LA, our attorneys bring deep experience to both federal and state courts, ensuring our clients’ interests are protected on and off the water.

Our Maritime Legal Services

We represent clients in a broad spectrum of admiralty matters, including:

  • Jones Act Defense: Defending employers against personal injury claims brought by seamen under the Merchant Marine Act of 1920.
  • Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA): Handling claims involving land-based maritime employees.
  • Cargo & Freight Claims: Resolving disputes involving damaged goods, bills of lading, and maritime liens.
  • Vessel Arrests & Liens: Navigating the procedural technicalities of Rule C and Rule B maritime attachments.
  • Marine Insurance Coverage: Advising on P&I, Hull and Machinery, and specialized maritime insurance disputes.
  • Collision & Allision Litigation: Representing vessel owners in accidents involving other vessels or fixed structures.

Why Choose RAP Law?

Maritime law is not “law as usual.” It requires an understanding of General Maritime Law, the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), and specific jurisdictional nuances of the Fifth Circuit.

Multistate Representation

While we are rooted in Mandeville, our reach extends across the entire Gulf Coast. We are licensed and experienced in:

  • Louisiana: From the Port of South Louisiana to the New Orleans waterfront.
  • Mississippi: Serving the bustling shipping and offshore hubs along the coast.
  • Texas: Defending interests in the major ports of Houston, Beaumont, and Galveston.

A Results-Driven Approach

We understand that maritime disputes can halt operations and impact your bottom line. Our goal is to provide a vigorous defense while pursuing the most efficient resolution possible—whether through aggressive litigation or strategic alternative dispute resolution.