Month: December 2023

Comprehensive Guide on Tourist Cruise Rape in Majorca, Spain

Written by Michael Ehline on December 6, 2023. Posted in Cruise Accident Blog.

It’s the scenario that every tourist fears after falling overboard. After that, the headline “woman raped on board cruise ship” is about as devastating as can be. Here, we can only imagine a tourist getting raped on a cruise ship going on vacation, hoping for the time of her life. Instead, she ended up in a nightmare scenario. As an aside, we still don’t know the cruise ship’s name. The woman allegedly boarded a cruise ship en route to Palma, Majorca.

Reports suggest that a ship worker from India in his 20s is the suspected rapist. I am Los Angeles and Houston cruise ship attorney Michael Ehline. I have over a decade of experience as a world-class cruise ship injury lawyer. I have won multi-million dollar cases and never backed down from a fight. Below, I am going to discuss the recent cruise ship sexual assault aboard an unknown cruise ship. My goal is to answer one question. What do you do when a “tourist is raped by a waiter on board a cruise ship off Mallorca?” Will the European Union come to your rescue?

“It’s one of those incidents that shakes you to your core, reminding us that even on a ‘safe’ luxury cruise ship, individuals can find themselves in threatening situations, even off the coast of modern Spain.”

Here’s a brief rundown of what allegedly happened:

The allegedly raped victim, a female tourist, had reportedly developed a friendly rapport with the accused, a 25-year-old worker from India.
After some time, the alleged rape victim, a foreign tourist, arranged to meet the purported rapist in the woman’s cabin.
Despite the woman’s insistence on not having unprotected sex, it is alleged that the man forced himself upon her. This is what the victim reported to the ship’s crew and representatives of the Spanish government when the ship arrived.
After the alleged assault, the victim informed the crew, and authorities were alerted as soon as the ship docked in Majorca, Spanish territory near the Mediterranean Sea.

Spanish society is already calling for a speedy resolution since Spain’s economy is highly dependent on the cruise ship industry. The prime minister, the accused man, and the tourism industry will likely try to make this disappear in the Spanish press, but we won’t let it die here. As you read along, we will dive into the complexities of such cases, the role of Ehline Law Firm and Personal Injury Attorney APLC in handling similar situations, and the vital international laws and regulations governing such incidents.

The Role of Ehline Law Firm Personal Injury Attorneys, APLC

This is precisely the case where the expertise of the team at Ehline Law Firm Personal Injury Attorneys, APLC, comes into play. We focus on aggressively pursuing justice for personal injury victims. Our lead counsel is well-versed in the complexities of international laws respecting cruise ships.

We can conduct a rigorous investigation into the case, including a review of all relevant evidence and extensive consultation with percipient witnesses. The victim’s statement and cooperation will be crucial in building a solid case.

The Process of Reporting and Investigation

The immediate step is to report such an incident to the cruise ship authorities. Our quick action ensures your matter is recorded officially. We ensure the victim receives proper medical attention, which is also physical time and place evidence. Consequently, our team of experienced personal injury attorneys will thoroughly investigate the incident.

Emotional Support and Rehabilitation

At Ehline Law Firm, we recognize the emotional trauma that victims endure in such incidents. Our team extends empathetic support. We want clients to be connected with the necessary support systems and rehabilitation services.

When dealing with a case like this, Ehline Law Firm Personal Injury Attorneys, APLC, take a multi-dimensional approach. They will thoroughly analyze the incident. They will ascertain where the crime happened and determine the applicable maritime laws. This would be the venue, a crucial determining factor in any naval litigation.

Coordinated Investigation

A thorough investigation is paramount. The allegations made by the victim, her testimony, any physical evidence aboard the ship, witness accounts, and CCTV footage would be examined meticulously by our legal team. They would also work closely with the Civil Guard in Majorca, who made the initial arrest, to gather all the pertinent information.

Assessing the Defendant’s Criminal and Employment History

Furthermore, Ehline Law Firm would look into the accused’s background. Ehline fights for changes in policies aboard cruise ships to safeguard passengers better, making sea travel safer for all.

In scrutinizing the defendant’s employment background, Ehline Law Firm would aim to establish any patterns of inappropriate behavior or indications of negligence on the part of the cruise ship company. If such patterns emerge, they could become significant factors in demonstrating the company’s liability, especially if it’s clear that the company was either aware of or failed to screen for such behavior adequately.

Key Evidence Compilation

Evidence is the backbone of any legal case. The legal team at Ehline Law Firm would meticulously collect and analyze all potential evidence. This could include CCTV footage, witness statements, medical reports, and ship employee communications. No matter how insignificant it may seem, any information could play a crucial role in determining the case’s outcome.

Laws and Treaties in Play

In cases such as this one, multiple regulations can either apply or have influence. In particular, two vital bodies of international law come into play. One is maritime law. This practice area governs legal disputes and offenses on open seas. The other is the law of the victim’s home country and the perpetrator’s home country. Given the elements of the crime, the location of the vessel, and the accused’s nationality, several international, national, and even state laws might come into play.

The firm would explore provisions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), international maritime laws, and the local laws of India, Spain, and the victim’s home country. Ratified by 168 countries worldwide, UNCLOS provides a framework for prosecuting crimes committed on board ships on the high seas. Consequently, the Ehline Law Firm would analyze and use the overlapping layers of these laws to seek the maximum possible restitution for the victim.

Jurisdictional Complexities

Maritime law cases often deal with complexities related to jurisdiction. A crime committed on a cruise ship sailing international waters or within different countries’ waters can fall under multiple jurisdictions. The experienced attorneys at Ehline Law Firm would skillfully navigate these complexities to ensure the case is filed in the most favorable jurisdiction for the victim.

Navigating the Laws

In cruise ship rape incidents, the application of laws is multi-layered. The ship’s location at the time of the incident, the nationality of the involved parties, and the cruise line’s registered nation may determine which laws apply. Expertise in international maritime laws allows Ehline Law Firm’s attorneys to navigate these complexities fluidly.

Settlement Negotiations

Most personal injury cases are settled out of court. Ehline Law Firm‘s skilled negotiators would fight for a fair settlement that accurately represents the physical, emotional, and financial impact on the victim’s life. However, if a just settlement is impossible, the firm’s lawyers are fully prepared to take the case to trial.

Filing the Lawsuit

The lawsuit would be filed once the necessary investigation is done and evidence is compiled. A civil lawsuit should compensate the victim for damages. It must cover medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and psychological trauma. Ehline Law Firm would leverage its expertise in personal injury law to ensure the victim gets the justice she deserves.

Ehline Law Firm would present witness testimonies, proof of injuries, and other relevant evidence supporting the victim’s claim during a trial period. The aim is to establish that the defendant committed the alleged crime and should be held accountable.

Jury Verdict and Post-Trial

If the case goes to trial, a jury will determine the outcome. If the jury favors the victim, they will decide the compensation the defendant must pay. This amount will take into account the physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial implications suffered by the victim.

Should the victim be unsatisfied with the verdict, Ehline Law Firm has a remarkable track record in making successful appeals. The legal team would review the case and identify areas where they could argue that a legal error occurred, effectively presenting this during an appeal process. Conversely, if the defendant appeals the verdict, Ehline Law Firm will continue the victim’s rights.

Closure and Recovery: Raped on Board Cruise Ship Before Ship Docked?

Regardless of the outcome, Ehline Law Firm supports its clients even past the verdict, offering emotional and legal counseling. Post-trial, the firm does not withdraw its support. We will stay in touch through any post-trial complexities. We can handle hold through the collection of the settlement or compensation, execution of the judgment, or any appeals process.

Ehline Law Firm goes beyond the purview of conventional litigation firms, focusing on achieving justice and the rehabilitation of the victim. We understand that rehabilitation is a long process. We know how demanding court battles can be as well. But we collaborate with a network of therapists, support groups, and counseling services to give us a leg up on the defense and get you back on your feet. By referring clients to these resources, our team ensures survivors don’t have to navigate the challenging path of recovery alone.

Conclusion

Once the legal journey begins, it is essential to stay patient. These cases can take a significant amount of time due to their complexity. Nonetheless, the legal experts at Ehline Law Firm have a robust record of seeking justice and will continuously strive to ensure a sense of safety and righteousness is reinstated for the victim.

Finally, safety precautions and swift actions by cruise ship operators are always a determining factor in preventing such cases. Providing a safe environment for all passengers must be a non-negotiable priority.

When unfortunate occurrences like these arise, Ehline Law Firm Personal Injury Attorneys, APLC, are equipped to handle such sensitive matters involving a cruise ship rape case with high efficiency. Focused on protecting rights while aiming for maximum compensation, Ehline adopts effective legal strategies to deal with existing regulations and agreements.

Why Don’t Cruise Lines Install Man-Overboard Systems Required by Law?

Written by Michael Ehline on December 4, 2023. Posted in Cruise Law News.

Never assume you are safe behind the raised railing of a cruise liner just because the captain from Miami made you feel good. There’s an alarming, growing trend we have heard about on the news that’s been growing on the high seas. It’s not just pirates or the threat of terrorism in the still of the night. In the past few years, the number of people falling overboard from cruise ships and ferries has skyrocketed. The cruise industry’s inability to monitor, track, and promptly rescue these unfortunate passengers and crew members is an annoying issue that potentially impacts everyone planning to step foot on a cruise.

Since January 2020, the count of undetected incidents has disturbingly shot up to 37, raising doubt about ICVLA. There’s a pressing to protect cruise passengers with man-overboard (MOB) systems. This is a problem the responsible parties in government must address for cruise guests and others without delay.

According to studies led by Travis Heggie, a professor at Bowling Green State University with a specialty in assessing health and safety threats within the tourism sector, although man-overboard incidents on cruise ships are infrequent, they are a prime reason for passenger fatalities world-wide.

“I am attorney Michael Ehline. For any woman or child aboard a cruise, I personally feel they should never be without an escort. There are predators who know they can throw a body over the side. These scofflaws know our own Coast Guard doesn’t enforce MOB laws. How many more people have to go or presumably go overboard before Carnival installs a MOB system on every ship in their line and every subsidiary line?” – Michael Ehline, Esq.

The evidence speaks for itself. In the event of someone falling overboard, a real-time report is crucial, and more people will die until this law is finally enforced. We can’t expect a crew member, or even crew members, to stand sentry over the entire hull of a ship. Still, sensors can and do that on many boats, even some built before Congress passed the federal law in 2010 to integrate technology.

Why does the U.S. Coast Guard refuse to Enforce the 2010 MOB Safety Law?

The puzzle deepens when we realize that the Coast Guard, the body charged with ensuring cruise ships’ compliance with the 2010 law, has not yet enforced the above requirements as late as December 2023. A Coast Guard spokesperson confirmed that no cruise ships have been inspected for MOB technology compliance since CVSSA was enacted over a decade ago.

Coast Guard Slow Walking Federal Rules?

The reason is the “incomplete rulemaking process[?]” initiated eight years ago. Apparently, Congress passes laws and leaves it up to bureaucrats who often get jobs with the cruise industry to WRITE laws and make rules!!! In other words, you have the right to be safe sitting in port while the whole world watches more deaths and disappears at sea for absolutely no reason by elbow rubbing in smoke-filled rooms. No joke, folks, this is how sad things have become where the servants have become the master, as will be seen.

Disconcerting Statistics: The Enigma of 397 Missing People Since 2000

Cruise Junkie has assembled an extensive dataset of cruise ship and ferry gone overboard instances. Between January 2000 and November 2023, 397 people have gone overboard or are either presumed dead or missing. If not for the pause in the cruise industry due to the COVID pandemic in 2020 and 2021, these figures could have been even more shocking.

What’s truly alarming is that since January 2020, 37 people have fallen overboard from cruise ships and ferries, with 13 incidents occurring on Carnival Cruise Lines and their subsidiaries. Reports suggest that neither the Carnival Glory nor the Carnival Conquest, let alone any Carnival Cruise Line ship, is equipped with an automatic man overboard system.

One can’t help but ask, how many more lives must be lost or endangered before Carnival retrofits its ships and those of its subsidiaries with an MOB system? An advanced safety solution could be implemented: MOB systems. Such systems have complex motion detection capabilities that can immediately detect and alert the ship if someone goes overboard.

The lack of MOB systems on these vessels prevented immediate detection of the overboard incidents. This crucial lapse triggered unnecessary delays, potentially resulting in the loss of lives that could have been saved.

The 2010 Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act Requires MOB Systems on Cruise Ships

Enacted in 2010, the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) was explicitly designed to address safety and security concerns within the maritime industry, mainly on cruise ships. Several regulations detailed in the CVSSA have been successfully implemented across many cruise lines, significantly impacting passenger safety.

Raised Railings But No Warning Systems, Why?

One such measure, aimed at minimizing man-overboard (MOB) incidents, requires cruise lines’ ships to install railings not less than 42 inches (1.07 meters) in height. Many cruise lines have complied, adjusting their ship railings to meet or exceed this standard.

Excuses By the Cruise Industry for Failing to Abide by Law

So far, a bunch of excuse-making on compliance with a bill attorney Michael Ehline helped through the legislative process.

Specious Argument 1 – 13 Years On, MOB Technology Still Needs Testing

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA = Mouthpiece for the Cruise Industry) Says…

“..the industry continues to evaluate, test and conduct trials…” to try and figure out the best ones, in a nutshell. CLIA says reckless passengers have a role in this, in a frail attempt to redirect to the cruise industry narrative they regurgitate.

Specious Argument 2 – Raised Railings Are Enough

CLIA seems content with raised railings on ships, asserting there’s nothing more they can do. But that’s not the whole story.

Specious Argument 3 – False Positives

One argument that cruise lines have previously presented against implementing MOB systems is false positives—instances where the system erroneously indicated someone had gone overboard.

Admittedly, such false alarms could indeed disrupt cruises unnecessarily. However, as noted below, this argument never held water, given the technological advancements before the law and advances since. Modern systems have largely eliminated this issue.

Real Reason: Furthermore, priced between $450K-$600K, these systems are a drop in the ocean compared to the cost of a cruise ship. But that’s a captain’s salary to cruise lines that already skirt many U.S. taxes.

Semi-Specious Argument 4 – The Law Is Ambiguous so that We Can Use a Less Effective, Cheaper MOB Safety System

As clarified by a Coast Guard official to news outlets, the law gives cruise companies some leeway to choose between an image-capture system, such as:

CCTV security cameras; and,
Real-time detection systems that use technologies like thermal cameras and radar.

Death on the High Seas Act – Likely Reason the Cruise Industry Seems Not to Care?

Some manufacturers of these safety systems – as well as a handful of cruise lines (Disney) that have taken the initiative to install them – have stated some systems have an efficiency rate of 97% or more. Cruise lines don’t stand to gain much by implementing these safety measures. As it stands, cruises aren’t covered under the U.S. “Death on the High Seas Act,” making it challenging for grieving families to seek compensation following a fatal incident.

The legal ramifications of losing a passenger on a ship don’t significantly affect the cruise industry, MOB system or not. In other words, if cruise lines were forced to pay what a life is worth, they would not let lives get lost at sea. Get it?

“Some experts paid by the cruise industry suggest cruise ships settle for image capture technology, like CCTV until more reliable man-overboard detection systems become widely available. However, the late Ken Carver, founder of International Cruise Victims Assn, Inc., told attorney Michael Ehline that “this technology was already on ships in 2010.”

Michael says, “Waiting until after Ken passed away is not what he had in mind.”

The Inventor of the Man Overboard Detection System – Technology Has Existed for Years, Used On Many Vessels Now

Many former Navy engineers, including Dave Leone, assert that the most advanced generation of overboard sensors is currently available on the market and has been for a long time. Leone played a pivotal role in building this system that detects falling masses instantly and triggers an immediate alarm.

Dynamics of Slowing a Cruise Ship

Think about it – a typical cruise ship takes about a mile to halt while cruising fully. With a 15-minute delay to confirm the MOB report, the boat could have traveled approximately seven miles from where the person went overboard.

This gap can make search and rescue missions difficult and, in many cases, could mean the difference between life and death.

The innovative overboard sensor technology Leone pioneered in 2010 employs two lasers that activate an alert on impact.

Understanding the MOB System

Advanced Motion Detection: The MOB system is expertly designed to use advanced motion detection technology. When the system detects someone going overboard, it sends a signal immediately to the ship’s bridge. This prompt alert allows the ship’s officers to act immediately.
Infrared: Besides detecting real-time incidents, the MOB system incorporates infrared heat signature technology and live video feeds. These features aid in effectively tracking the victim overboard, greatly enhancing rescue missions. It’s almost like equipping the ship with a watchful guardian, ready to act at a moment’s notice to safeguard its passengers.

Eight Years On, Congress Seeks Updates from the Coast Guard

The Coast Guard has a cozy relationship with the cruise lines, too. They get jobs as expert witnesses or many other positions in the cruise industry when they retire or are separated from the sea service. And, politicians fleeing or between elections can always count on warm reception within the cruise industry as an executive liaison with Congress, like pharma heads and the CDC and FDA.

Soviet Style Public Servants?

In a case that sounds more like something that would happen in Soviet Russia, the USCG is being probed about man-overboard tech on sailing vessels, as required by the CVSSA. U.S. Congressman Richard Blumenthal, hailing from Connecticut, sent an inquiry in May seeking insights about deploying this technology on operational ships.

This article aims not to induce fear but to highlight the situation’s urgency. It is to draw attention to the fact that cases of men and women going overboard are happening all too often and that the existing safety mechanisms are sorely inadequate in handling them.

It is time to address this and ensure that every passenger and crew member’s life is respected and protected.

Carnival Glory: A 28-year-old passenger, Tyler Barnett, vanished in plain sight, with the last sighting at about 11:40 p.m. After a ship search the following morning, the five-hour delay in reporting the incident to the U.S. Coast Guard significantly hampered the rescue efforts. The U.S. Coast Guard said: “Our crews battled severe weather conditions for multiple days and made every effort to find Mr. Barnett. Suspending an active search is never a decision we make lightly, and we offer our most sincere condolences to Mr. Barnett’s family and friends.”
Carnival Conquest: A similar mishap occurred two months earlier. A family member last saw Kevin McGrath, a 26-year-old passenger, in his stateroom at 2 a.m. Despite a ship search, he wasn’t found.

The Mysterious Disappearances of Barnett and McGrath

The CCTV footage did not indicate passengers going overboard on either Carnival ship, including Barnett and McGrath. It doesn’t help that cruise ships have been accused of “losing” videos of evidence when they get sued. Furthermore, Carnival has no explanation regarding the disappearance of these two passengers.

Significantly, neither the Carnival Glory nor the Conquest Cruise ships have an automatic man overboard (MOB) system to detect overboard incidents immediately.

In other words, there was never:

An alert to the ship’s bridge
Record of the occurrence
Ability to detect passengers and track people falling overboard.

Purpose of this Expert Legal Treatise?

The Shared Responsibility of Safety Onboard

Of course, cruise passengers also have a role in ensuring their safety with Man Overboard Systems (MOBs). Aboarding a vessel is a shared responsibility between the cruise lines and the passengers to maintain strict safety standards and behave responsibly. However, when visibly intoxicated cruise passengers are continually served alcohol, doesn’t that put their safety and that of others onboard at risk?

Cruise companies unquestionably bear the ethical duty to protect passengers or even a crewmember from going overboard. If they jump (suicide while drunk) off a low balcony or fall, for whatever reason, they must be rescued before they drown or get eaten by sharks as other passengers watch in horror. (See shark attack example here.)

The self-aware cruise company should place its special duty to passengers above potential profits. A potentially drunk passenger gambling in the ship’s casino or buying drinks is worth more alive to the family, especially when DOSHA makes wrongful death at sea lawsuits an exercise in futility.

Understanding the Protocol of Man Overboard on a Cruise?

Cruise ships follow a meticulous emergency procedure in the unfortunate event of a passenger falling overboard. Let’s look at how cruise ships respond to an alarming situation like this.

“Oscar” – Man Overboard Code on a Cruise ship?

When someone falls overboard at sea, a three-blast whistle sound followed by a general alarm bell, known as the Morse code ‘Oscar,’ alerts the other crew members. This scenario is aptly referred to as ‘Mobi.’

1. Crew’s Immediate Response

Once the command bridge receives a notification of an overboard incident, it activates an internal alarm. The ship-wide broadcast of “Oscar, Oscar, Oscar” serves as the code word to alert everyone onboard of the incident.

Visual contact with the overboard passenger is critical. If maintained, the ship stops its journey and dispatches life and rescue boats. On the other hand, when the passenger is reported missing, the vessel recalibrates its course towards the presumed point of water entry.

2. Search and Rescue Efforts

Without delay, the ship’s command informs the local Coast Guard, providing critical support to an ongoing rescue mission. The Coast Guard, on receiving a distress signal, collaborates with the ship to gather all necessary information.

The Coast Guard’s duties span sending aircraft, cutters, and dedicated rescue teams. Analyzing medical conditions ensures safe transportation to land-based healthcare units. And yet, soberingly, many overboard victims remain unrescued despite such concerted efforts.

How Can One Avoid Falling Victim?

Man-overboard incidents can be disastrous, and while the ship’s crew is entrusted with handling the aftermath as passengers, there are preventive measures you can adopt.

Stay alert to your surrounding environment, especially while on the higher decks.
Avoid sitting, standing, or leaning on railings, open windows, or balconies.
When the weather is rough, or the sea is turbulent, restraining your movements aboard the ship is wise.
Never leave children unattended; prevent them from climbing onto furniture near railings or balconies.
Paying close attention to crew instructions can ward off potential accidents.

Disney Charting a Successful Course?

Yes. Disney Cruise Line has boldly faced this issue, leading the industry by installing MOB systems throughout their entire fleet. It’s time for the rest of the maritime sector to follow this example, prioritizing the safety of all on board.

Rescue Operations Without an MOB System: The Roadblocks

It’s worth noting that the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 (CVSSA) requires cruise ships to install these systems. Without a Man Overboard (MOB) system, the odds of a successful rescue are drastically reduced. Modern cruise ships are equipped with excessive video surveillance, requiring round-the-clock monitoring. Time is an essential factor in MOB scenarios.

Takes a Mile or More to Stop a Ship at Sea?

Considering it takes around one mile for a cruise ship to come to a complete stop at sea, just a 15-minute delay from the MOB report to confirmation means the boat would have moved approximately seven miles from the actual man overboard systems’ location, making rescue missions exceedingly challenging.

Solutions Right Now!?

To reduce casualties from passengers falling overboard, the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) was passed in 2010 to detect passengers who go over the side and rescue them quickly.

Enforcing Existing Legal Measures

Simply put, the burden is on the U.S. government to apply these laws more effectively, prioritizing the safety of its citizens. The legislation demands cruise ships implement mechanisms that capture images of potential overboard passengers or detect them in real-time as they fall.

Did someone you love fall overboard recently? ICVLA wants to know why the original goal of Ken Carver of the International Cruise Victims Association was not met to protect passengers so many years out. Such technology exists, and HAS existed since 2010!

Conclusion – Force USCG and other Cronies Inside to Do Their Jobs!

We just saw how loopholes, lack of enforcement, or penalties have allowed the cruise industry to evade 13-year-old law! Let’s call on the cruise industry to put safety first. The time for change is now. It’s time for the U.S. government and cruise lines to reconsider their priorities and put passenger safety at the forefront.

Let’s demand they install MOB systems on all their ships, voluntarily or otherwise. And let’s urge the U.S. government steadfastly to enforce the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 without delay. With the government’s action and the cruise industry’s cooperation, we could significantly reduce overboard incidents on cruise ships by the end of 2029.

Let’s make this urgent, life-saving change happen for us and our loved ones. No cruise passenger should be forced to wait a day longer for man overboard technology. Ultimately, when we embark on a cruise adventure, we should focus on the journey’s excitement, not the fear of overboard accidents. A single-life lost at sea is too many; 37 lost over several years historically is a tragedy. Adding to their agony is the knowledge that the accident might have been avoided had an automatic man-overboard system on the ship. This lack of essential security measures on most cruise ships in an environment where they are needed is unacceptable.

Do you think cruise ships are shirking their responsibilities and placing profits over people? Do you want to hold industry and federal government officials accountable? Did you witness a deadly MOB, or were you a victim yourself? Please get in touch with our organization so we can podcast and write about your story for our readers. Call 855.AL-ICVLA or use our online contact us form today!

Top 5 Best Cruise Lawyers® – Miami’s 2023 Picks

Written by Dan Carona on December 3, 2023. Posted in Best Cruise Lawyer.

At the outset, congratulations to Louis Holzberg for winning the distinction of best cruise lawyer® of the year, 2023 Miami, Fl.

When you buy a cruise passenger contract, you expect to board and deboard in a safe condition. If you’re searching for the crème de la crème of cruise ship attorneys in Miami, Florida, you’ve come to the right place. As many of you know, most cases against cruise lines are filed in Miami, Florida, the cruise ship capital of the world. Our insightful guide, brought to you by the International Cruise Victims Legal Association (ICVLA), will break down the top 5 Best Cruise Lawyers® from winner to nominees in this specialist field, sure to navigate you through turbulent legal waters.

At a minimum, none of these impressive lawyers will blow the statute of limitations based on their histories. We’re kicking things off with one of Miami’s best multi-million dollar advocates, the stellar Louis Holzberg.

“The smooth sea never made a skilled sailor, but the right attorney can certainly make experiences smoother in the storm.” – Unknown

Miami and the Best Lawyers

Are you grappling with the task of finding representation after you or a loved one has suffered an injury on a Miami, Texas, or other cruise liner due to another party’s negligence? Regarding personal injury lawyers specializing in safeguarding the rights of passengers and cruise ship crew members, Miami is one of the world’s premier cruise ship ports. Hence, Miami, Florida, is a great place to search for access to the best lawyers for any cruise passenger.

This area of passenger law falls under civil litigation, where the burden of proof is not as stringent as criminal law. When dealing with severe injuries and aiming to lodge a claim, aligning with top-notch personal injury lawyers is critical. These legal professionals should have a track record of success and be willing to offer free consultations, setting them apart from typical ambulance chasers who might see the injured as another case file.

Perhaps you’re searching for fiscal restitution to cover your lost earnings, pain and suffering, and medical bills. With its fast-paced nature and a wide array of legal talents, Miami can connect you with some of the finest personal injury lawyers. Remember, the right personal injury attorney can boost your chances of filing a successful passenger claim. At the same time, a poor choice could adversely impact the case and legal rights of the passenger. So, make your selection wisely and ask for a free consultation!

Why This 2023 List of Best Cruise Lawyers®?

Why is credibility so important when cruising for the best cruise lawyer®? It’s common to find a passenger seeking a reputable personal injury law firm through popular online platforms like Yelp!, Google My Business reviews, or U.S. News Best Lawyers®. Regrettably, the reliability and trustworthiness of such reviews can often be questionable regarding the final dollars and cents. Our personal injury attorneys frequently receive negative feedback on Yelp!, only to be approached days later by bad review removal companies offering to erase these negative comments for a substantial fee.

Personal injury claims demand experienced and skilled representation; it’s not a field where you can risk entrusting your case to an underqualified lawyer. You need to ensure your lawyer firmly upholds and argues your case during this overwhelming history of your life since you are indisposed and seriously injured.

Highly Regarded Personal Injury Attorneys

If you’re hesitant to establish an attorney-client relationship with a dedicated, Miami-based firm, don’t worry. We’ve provided a selection of highly-regarded injury attorneys in Miami, some of whom have previously been vetted or worked with ICVLA. We aim to simplify your quest for the exemplary legal support you are entitled to during this difficult time. Representing diverse practice areas, such as workers’ compensation, appeals, and civil rights litigation, these attorneys can expertly handle a wide range of cases.

Before committing to any lawyer, discussing your case and clarifying any concerns with a reliable legal professional is now a viable option. This is the best way to ensure you will obtain maximum compensation from the at-fault party that sold you a bill of goods. To aid in your search for the ideal lawyer for your case in Miami, we’re listing several of the finest personal injury attorneys for injured passengers in Miami County, FL.

The good lawyer is not the man who has an eye to every side and angle of contingency, and qualifies all his qualifications, but who throws himself on your part so heartily, that he can get you out of a scrape.
– Ralph Waldo Emerson

Common Injuries on Cruise Lines?

Common Personal Injuries include:

Brain injuries
Fractures from car accidents
Loss of earnings
Property damage
Spinal cord injuries.

The law is reason, free from passion.
– Aristotle

Best Cruise Lawyers®: The ICVLA Secret Vetting Algorithm

I was wondering how we arrived at this list of fantastic attorneys. Well, it’s all thanks to our secret algorithm. We have a robust vetting lawyer system at the International Cruise Victims’ Legal Assistance (ICVLA).

Let’s break it down.

Domain Expertise: We rate lawyers based on their knowledge and experience handling cruise ship-related lawsuits.
Success Rate: Winning lawsuits plays a significant role in our evaluation. We consider the number of lawsuits won by the attorney.
Client Satisfaction: Online reviews, client testimonials, and direct feedback are analyzed to measure the satisfaction level of previous clients.
Accessibility: We prioritize lawyers who are easily reachable and maintain clear communication with their clients.
Integrity: Our algorithm evaluates the professional ethics and integrity of lawyers.

Each parameter is rated, and the scores are compiled to produce a total score. Our algorithm is constantly fine-tuned for transparency as we strive to provide the most reliable information for cruise ship accident victims. Stick around as we introduce you to the rest of our featured top 5 attorneys, vetted and verified by the ICVLA secret algorithm.

2023’s Top 5 Cruise Ship Attorneys Are:

Louis Holzberg, Esq. (Best Cruise Lawyer® 2023 Awardee): A force to be reckoned with in the specialty of cruise ship law and our top pick.
Matt Dolman, Esq.: Dolman has been in the game for a while. We consider him among the elite cruise lawyers and look forward to seeing him nominated in 2024.
Charles Lipcon, Esq.: Lipcon is an old hat with the maritime law profession, having been seen on CNN and almost every major TV network starting in the late 90s through the 2000s, with a winning reputation.
Raul G. Delgado, Esq.: Raul is a true American who escaped the tyranny of Cuban communism…
Michael C. Black, Esq.: Attorney Michael C. Black can provide international cruise victims with the guidance they need. This lawyer is also board-certified in Admiralty and Maritime Law by the Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education.

Stay tuned as we delve deeper into their credentials, starting with our first spotlight lawyer, Louis Holzberg.

Top 5 best cruise lawyers in Miami Florida, Instagram meme.

1. Best Cruise Lawyer®, Louis Maxwell Holzberg – Holzberg Legal

Year Admitted to Florida State Bar – 10/01/2018

Legal Education/Law School

Florida International University, College of Law.

Florida State Bar Contact

Phone: 305-668-6410
Address: Holzberg Legal
7685 SW 104th St Ste 220
Miami, FL 33156-3161.

Louis Holzberg leads our list of top Miami-based cruise ship attorneys. With a multitude of successful cases under his belt, Holzberg provides an unparalleled combination of expertise and dedication to his clients. Let’s peel back the curtain and look deeper at what makes him a standout in this highly specialized field.

After graduating from Florida International University, College of Law, and with years of experience dealing with cruise ship litigation in Miami, the world’s cruise capital, Holzberg’s reputation is well-earned. His in-depth understanding of maritime laws allows him to navigate complex cases seamlessly, often yielding successful outcomes for his clients.

Louis has successfully won cases against:

Royal Caribbean
Carnival Cruise Lines
Norwegian Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Disney Cruise Line
MSC Cruises
Oceania Cruises
Azamara Club Cruises
Costa Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises and more.

Beyond his education and technical prowess, Holzberg’s tenacity in championing the rights of cruise ship passengers and accident victims truly is one thing that sets him apart. From start point to finish, on social media, including his podcasts, Holzberg focuses on delivering justice for his injured clients everywhere.

2. Cruise Lawyer, Matt Dolman – Dolman Law Group

Year Admitted to Florida State Bar – 04/15/2004

Legal Education/Law School

Stetson University College of Law, 2003.

Florida State Bar Contact

Phone: 727-451-6900
Address: Dolman Law Group
800 N Belcher Rd
Clearwater, FL 33765-2103.

Dolman won the 2017 Best Cruise Lawyer® Award and was nominated again in 2023 by his peers and past clients. When it comes to specializing in Maritime law, Matt Dolman is genuinely remarkable. With years of experience and precise knowledge of injury laws related to cruise ship accidents, Dolman has maintained a front-runner position in the industry.

“Overcoming adversity is the true test of character.” – This is the mantra by which Dolman steers his cases through tumultuous legal waters. His passion for justice and relentless advocacy for his clients have earned him numerous successful verdicts and profound respect from his peers and clients alike.

“Matt Dolman is essentially the guy you want on your side if you’re ever unfortunate enough to be in a ‘deep-sea crisis’. He will fight tooth and nail for you, and he does not back down easily. His perseverance is commendable.” – Mike E., Ex-client

Matt’s practice includes cases like:

Seafarer rights
Slip and Fall incidents
Inadequate security leading to personal injuries
Medical negligence malpractice claims.

Our second-place cruise ship attorney, Dolman, has achieved numerous victories, bringing justice to injured victims of cruise ship incidents. His excellent delivery and immense knowledge and experience in Maritime law make him an outstanding authority in the field. ICVLA proudly recognizes Matt Dolman for his international and Miami cruise ship law excellence. Visit Dolman if you get injured at sea.

3. Cruise Lawyer, Charles Roy Lipcon – Lipcon, Margulies, & Winkleman P.A.

Year Admitted to Florida State Bar – 11/19/1971

Legal Education/Law School

University of Miami School of Law, 1971

Florida State Bar Contact

Phone: 305-373-3016
Address: Lipcon, Margulies, & Winkleman P.A.
1 Biscayne Tower Ste 1776
Miami, FL 33131-1806.

Charles Lipcon, an experienced maritime attorney in Miami, is known for his relentless pursuit of justice for cruise ship accident victims in naval cases. He has been all over the news, on shows like Good Morning America, CNN, and others across the seven seas. One of our crew members and lead attorneys, inactive U.S. Marine Michael Ehline, considers Lipcon the Force Recon of Cruise Law in Miami, the “Magic City.”

He brings about 50 years of experience to the table, handling various federal court maritime disputes such as personal injury, wrongful death, and sexual assault cases on cruise ships. His firm, Lipcon, Margulies, Alsina & Winkleman, has been instrumental in numerous precedent-setting victories over catastrophic injuries in the Southern District.

Why is Charles Lipcon one of our top picks? Simple – his sheer dedication, time in grade, and commitment to seeking justice for victims of cruise ship accidents have set him and his great team apart in the maritime law industry.

Experience: With almost five decades in maritime law, Lipcon has represented thousands of victims, helping them to navigate the often complex legal processes associated with cruise ship accidents. When taking legal action and winning, his insights and experience are invaluable in these maritime claims.
Expertise: His expertise extends beyond just legal representation. He is the author of the legal advice book “Unsafe on the High Seas” – a testament to his profound understanding of the complexities of maritime law.
Record of Success: Lipcon has a track record of securing favorable client results. His firm has recovered over $300 million in damages for clients, illustrating their effectiveness in cruise ship injury cases.

Pick Charles Lipcon if you seek seasoned counsel and a relentless advocate who will fight tooth and nail for your cause.

By choosing Charles Lipcon, you’re aligning yourself with one of the best minds in the field of cruise ship law, a veteran who is well-versed in maritime law, and a true champion of the people. His commitment to justice, vast experience, and track record of outstanding results place him in third place on ICVLA’s list of best-recommended cruise ship attorneys in Miami, 2023 picks.

4. Miami Cruise Lawyer, Raul G. Delgado – Raul G. Delgado P.A.

Year Admitted to Florida State Bar – 11/18/1977

Legal Education/Law School

Nova Southeastern University – Shepard Broad College of Law

Florida State Bar Contact

Phone: 305-596-7911
Address: Raul G. Delgado P.A.
10631 N Kendall Dr. Ste 130
Miami, FL 33176-1558.

Raul G. Delgado, Esq., born October 27, 1949, in Havana, Cuba, as Raul Gabriel Delgado Santiago, has a commendable journey that led him to become one of Miami’s top cruise ship attorneys. Fleeing from the communist regime of Fidel Castro, Raul, along with his family, sought refuge in America on Christmas Day, 1960, a year after the takeover of the country.

The original anticipation was that their stay in the United States would be brief until a regime change ended Castro’s rule. However, as months rolled into years, it became clear that Raul’s life was here to stay in his new home country. The liberties and freedoms that America guaranteed were a stark contrast to the oppressive regime back in Cuba– a contrast that ultimately fueled his appreciation for his newfound homeland.

This realization led Mr. Delgado to commit to a future in the United States, upholding his promise to his Spanish immigrant grandfather. The commitment was to his education, focusing on mastering the English language and eventually pursuing a law degree, an esteemed profession in Cuba and America.

He kept this promise by attending Immaculata / La Salle High School in Miami, Florida, graduating in 1968. Furthering his academic journey, he graduated from the University of Miami in 1973.

Raul’s dedication to his studies continued as he earned a full scholarship to the Charter Class at Nova Law School, eventually obtaining his Juris Doctorate in 1977. He passed the Florida Bar the same year, kicking off a remarkable 44-year career in personal injury law, advocating tirelessly for accident victims across Florida.

With a career spanning over 43 years, Raul G. Delgado has established a firm foothold in South Florida’s legal circle. His practice areas include personal injury cases, wrongful death cases, auto accidents, slip/trip/fall accidents, and, most relevantly, cruise ship accidents. He is a founding partner of the Law Offices of Raul G. Delgado, P.A., and Delgado Trial Attorneys. Here is the Facebook Page of his law firm, Delgado Trial Attorneys in Miami, FL. Please contact us if you work for Mr. Del Gado and want his image or information updated.

5. Miami Cruise Lawyer, Michael Charles Black – Michael C. Black, P.A.

Year Admitted to Florida State Bar – 09/20/1995

Legal Education/Law School

University of Miami School of Law, 1995

Florida State Bar Law Firm Contact

Phone: 305-271-8301
Address: Michael C. Black, P.A.
7700 N Kendall Dr. Ste 305
Miami, FL 33156-7559.

The diligent and experienced plaintiff’s lawyer, Michael C. Black, is on our list’s fifth cruise line personal injury lawyer position. Known for his tenacious approach, Black has an impeccable record of handling critical cruise vessel cases, earning him a firm reputation in Miami’s legal community.

Black’s dedication to seeking justice is manifested in his professional career and shines through his relentless commitment to client satisfaction. Grasping the delicate nature of cruise line litigation, he empathizes with his clients’ emotional strain, offering legal counsel and a supportive shoulder.

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The hallmark of Black’s success lies in his unparalleled track record. Over his career, he has secured millions in settlements and verdicts for his clients who were forced to cruise in unsafe conditions. Also, he is a proud member of the Florida Bar and American Bar Association. He has been recognized by various legal directories for his sterling contribution to the Miami legal community.

Black graduated from the St. Thomas University School of Law, where he polished his legal knowledge, specializing mainly in maritime law and cruise ships. His experience and academic prowess have catapulted him to the forefront of cruise ship litigation as a top trial lawyer among trial lawyers in Miami. He is one of the best lawyers in the world. He gets clients big money! So we look forward to seeing him nominated again in 2024 and hope he doesn’t sue to push the issue!

What are the benefits of hiring a Miami-based ICVLA Best Cruise Ship Attorney?

Miami, often known as the cruise industry’s capital, hosts most cruise lines’ headquarters. This strategic location and port of positioning allow these attorneys to focus and have extensive knowledge, experience, and contact networks located within the cruise ship injury industry.

But there’s more:

Industry Expertise: Our Miami-based attorneys have insights into the intricacies of offshore and ashore cruise lines. These are the best lawyers we could identify to pursue a negligent cruise line.
Legal Acumen: These are not typical personal injury lawsuits. They come with many pitfalls. Knowledge of maritime laws and local regulations is crucial for adequate representation against the cruise lines. Given their concentrated exposure, Miami-based trial lawyers have this knowledge of cruise ships in spades, but who do you hire?
Strong Networks: A trial lawyer with a track record of firsthand dealings with the major players in the cruise industry means a better chance at winning your personal injury case. ICVLA’s Miami picks as trial lawyers have built strong relationships that can benefit any passenger’s cruise ship injury case.

That example has probably given you an idea of the advantages, but here’s another question: why is ICVLA vetting trial lawyers?

Here’s why:

“When you choose an ICVLA-vetted attorney for personal injury lawsuit, you’re assured of high professional standards, impeccable ethics. You will know right away these are trial lawyers who have won the trust of their clients and fellow attorneys.”

Here’s what this ICVLA vetting implies:

Industry Reputation: Our algorithm factors in the standing in the legal and maritime community of each personal injury lawyer we investigate.
Client Satisfaction: We review client testimonials and feedback to ensure your cruise ship injury attorney knows the law and provides proper, caring client service.
Ethical Standards: Adherence to professional guidelines and show of moral conduct is integral for the ICVLA selection into our cruise ship injury attorney Hall of Fame.
Winning Record: Do not overlook this one. It is vital. An attorney’s win record speaks volumes about their capabilities against cruise ships like Royal Caribbean.

In summary, when you choose cruise ship injury attorneys from our ICVLA-vetted Miami-based list, you get the best of both worlds – local industry knowledge and ICVLA assurance of professionalism. Each attorney on this list has proven their prowess in cruise ship law and is ready to assist you. So move forward with confidence, knowing that you’re in good hands.

Hire Any of the Top 5 Best Cruise Lawyers® in Miami, Florida, Today!

In conclusion, these are the top five cruise ship attorneys in Miami who have demonstrated exceptional skill, vast experience, unsurpassed knowledge of maritime law, and a profound commitment to their clients who got hurt during cruise ship activities. These cruise ship injury lawyers can protect you and your loved ones as you heal and try to get back on your feet. Each cruise lawyer is certified and vetted through our secret ICVLA algorithm, assuring you the best representation should you ever need a cruise ship attorney.

These international cruise lawyers will welcome you aboard to discuss filing your case or lawsuit if the cruise property was unsafe or if some other negligent or intentional act endangered your safety. You can speak to ICVLA to get a free recommendation anytime, 24/7. From California to Texas to Florida to England, our international cruise victim’s lawyers are ready to advise and guide you through the process and litigate complicated liability and damages issues.

Sources:

Miami is one of the top cruise ship ports in the world.
Florida is home to the headquarters of major cruise lines.