Legal issues involving the loading, unloading, delivery, damage or loss of cargo is also part of the responsibility of a maritime attorney. When cargo is not delivered or pick-up according to contract, the shipper or owner may be entitled to compensation, especially in the case of lost income or perishable goods.

In some cases workers on docks or on large ships may have been exposed to asbestos in their work environment. Maritime lawyers are able to start legal action on behalf of the individuals or their families even if the ship or dock were the asbestos was present is in another country based on maritime laws.

Given its nature, maritime law can be quite different than the normal U.S. legal code, whether your issue occurs on a tugboat or a cruise liner. Don't assume that an everyday general lawyer can help; you'll need one schooled and experienced in the intricacies of maritime law.