Getting the Best Cruise Ship Plaintiff’s Attorneys: A Complete Guide

When you’re at sea as a cruise ship crew member or cruise ship passenger, the last thing on your mind is likely the possibility of an accident or injury. Whether on a Royal Caribbean cruise or an obscure sailboat cruise, passengers get hurt and disappear daily. Hence, the people you care about may need legal representation, and the case must be filed RAPIDLY. Finding the best cruise ship plaintiff’s attorneys might feel intimidating – especially when you may be contending with injuries or emotional distress from a terrible cruise ship accident on the high seas or even in port. 

If you are in this scenario, support is available from the International Cruise Victim Lawyers Association (ICVLA), your fully vetted international cruise lawyers. This article guides international cruise victims on navigating these complex waters. It will also offer clear steps to accessing the most capable legal counsel to pursue deplorable cruise ship companies in the United States Federal District Court or overseas. 

“Searching for the perfect cruise ship injury attorney for cruise ship lawsuit isn’t just about track records and legal prowess – it’s about finding someone who understands maritime law in great depth, and who is dedicated to recovering compensation for you or your loved ones after cruise ship accidents or injuries caused by others’ negligence.” – Michael Ehline, managing attorney, Ehline Law Firm Personal Injury Attorneys, APLC

What statistics could be relevant?

Look at their track records and professional accomplishments when searching for the best cruise ship attorney.

Here are some key statistics that can help you make an informed decision before bringing a cruise ship injury lawsuit: 

• Case Victories: One of the most telling statistics is the cases in which injury lawyers or cruise ship law firms have won. This will indicate their courtroom success in litigating cruise ship injury claims.
• Funds Recovered: It’s not just about the number of wins but how much money is retrieved in settlements or verdicts. The higher the total recovery, the more influential the attorneys will likely be in compensating clients injured on a cruise.
• Years of Experience: The length of time cruise ship accident attorneys have practiced maritime law can help measure their expertise. Cruise ship attorneys with years of experience will likely understand the complexities better than a typical ambulance-chasing car accident attorney.
• Awards and Recognition: Check if the cruise ship injury attorney or firm has received any industry awards or has been recognized by their peers for their work. This can signify their reputation and standing in the legal community.
• Client Testimonials: Real experiences from previous clients can help paint a picture of what working with the injury claims attorney may look like. Look for Yelp! comments on the attorney’s professionalism, thorough representation, and success in achieving fair compensation under applicable cruise ship laws.

Peer Reviews and Feedback 

Despite impressive stats, consider what past clients have to say about them. Indeed, a cruise ship attorney may have a high success rate, but this might be a red flag if their clients are dissatisfied with their services. Look for testimonials and reviews from previous clients to understand their overall satisfaction, professionalism, and whether they felt their interests were prioritized. And make sure it’s a similar case. If it’s a wrongful death or missing at sea case, make sure they can bring a wrongful death lawsuit.

Free Consultation in Cruise Ship Cases

Lastly, the quality of an initial consultation can be a deciding factor. Depending on your case, you may be confused. But whether you got hurt in the Gulf of Mexico or your case must be filed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, all our invitees work on a contingency basis (no win, no fee service). A top-notch cruise ship attorney should offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case, understand your situation, and guide you to the best legal options. Their responsiveness, patience, and willingness to guide you through your cruise ship accident claims could indicate the level of service you could expect.

These stats and considerations make finding the most competent cruise ship attorney to represent your case significantly more straightforward and effective. You can learn more about suing a cruise ship company during your free case review. If you were on an international Royal Caribbean cruise, or Carnival cruise, for example, we will be able to break down which treaties or conventions apply and prepare you accordingly.

Utilize ICVLA to Find and Retain the Best Cruise Ship Plaintiff’s Attorneys 

The International Cruise Victim Legal Association (ICVLA) is one of the world’s premier resources for finding the best cruise ship plaintiff’s attorneys. They have vetted cruise ship injury lawyers across the globe who specialize in maritime law, and they can set you up with attorneys best suited for your unique case requirements. Whether you are a passenger or a crew member affected by a maritime disaster, ICVLA can lead you to the most qualified attorney to file cruise injury lawsuits in the United States and beyond. 

Here are some ways ICVLA can help people hurt on cruise ships: 

• Experience in Maritime Law: ICVLA specifically seeks personal injury lawyers specializing in maritime or admiralty law. This ensures you are dealing with experts who understand the intricacies and complex nature of this field of law.
• Global Network: With a high proportion of cruise lines operating in international waters, it’s pivotal to consider lawyers who have connections globally. ICVLA’s extensive network of international personal injury lawyers ensures you receive the most comprehensive legal advice and representation.
• Specialization in Cruise Line Cases: ICVLA has a track record of fighting for the rights of victims of all major cruise lines. The personal injury attorneys they recommend have a deep understanding of cruise-line operations and their defensive strategies to protect you fiercely against formidable foes.
• Client Success Stories: There’s no better evidence of competency than a track record of successful verdicts and settlements. Attorneys recommended by ICVLA have a proven history of getting their clients the compensation they deserve.

Leverage the Nation’s Leading Cruise Ship Accident Lawyers 

Lay your trust in ICVLA, one of the foremost maritime accident lawyer groups in America, based in Los Angeles, and Miami, Florida.

Here’s why: 

1. Years of Experience: With over 300 years of combined experience advocating for the victim’s rights, lawyers who volunteer here have unmatched expertise in dealing with all maritime law cases encompassing cruise ships, securing $billions for their clients.
2. Nationwide Reach: They have access to 1000s of vetted, associated consumer attorneys in 100s law offices nationwide. Once retained, they can serve any client from anywhere in the country.
3. Industry Recognition: ICLVA attorneys have received several accolades, including being named to “Best Law Firms” ® by U.S. News & World Report, with many of their attorneys named to “Best Lawyers,” ® as well as Personal Injury Warriors International, Inc.®
4. Direct Media Appearances: Our guest and contributing attorneys are regularly featured in the media for their specialized knowledge in maritime law, demonstrating their authority in the field.

Finding and retaining the best cruise ship plaintiff’s attorneys can be streamlined with the help of ICVLA and our vetted international cruise lawyers. You can be confident that your claim is handled by someone with the expertise to navigate the complexities of maritime law effectively, ensuring you get the due justice and compensation you deserve.

Typical Types of Cruise Ship Accidents and Injuries

Maritime law is distinctly specialized and sometimes puzzling, even for cruise ship attorneys with a moderately good grasp of broader naval law. Passengers can maintain vigilance to avoid injuries while vacationing on a cruise ship, but accidents still unfailingly occur. 

Our firm takes pride in its capability to represent victims of common incidents that transpire on cruise lines. 

These include: 

• Injuries, including Food Poisoning to Cruise Ship Passengers
• Incidents of Sexual Assault on Cruise Ships
• Claims of Seamen
• Disappearance of Passengers on a Cruise
• Accidents of Falling Overboard from Cruise Ships
• Drowning Accidents on Cruise Ships
• Accidents during Shore Excursions
• Incidents involving Flowrider
• Malpractice by Cruise Ship Medical Personnel
• Class Action Suits.

Should you sustain an injury, consulting with a cruise ship accident attorney is crucial to determine the next steps.

We can connect you with a cruise ship accident injury lawyer in our Miami Headquarters or any of our partners and contributors with international and nationwide law offices. If you’re abroad, you can connect with us right away, 24/7. We provide all our clients with a free assessment of their cases, and it’s always risk-free and confidential with no obligation.

Cruise Lines: Our Network of Attorneys Handle Claims Against 

Because many major cruise lines are based in Miami, Florida, they often stipulate this location for potential lawsuits. This is the primary reason our network of attorneys includes Miami-based representatives. Some cruise lines may dictate California or Washington State as the preferred jurisdiction for any lawsuit. Hence, we have attorneys licensed in these states, as well. 

Unfortunately, passengers are often unaware of this jurisdiction stipulation and file lawsuits elsewhere. Such lawsuits usually get dismissed, leaving the passenger with no route of claim against the cruise line company. This illustrates the significance of securing experienced maritime accident lawyers with the necessary skills and resources to pursue and prosecute claims against significant cruise lines successfully. 

Our network of cruise ship accident lawyers are proficient in handling claims against numerous cruise lines, which include: 

• Azamara Cruise Lines
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• Crystal Cruises
• Cunard Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• Mediterranean Shipping Cruises USA
• Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Silversea Cruises
• Island Queen Cruises
• Pullmantur Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• Virgin Voyages
• Windstar Cruises.

This list is not exhaustive but comprises some major cruise lines our cruise ship injury attorneys sue in federal district court or overseas. ICVLA contributors go beyond the passenger ticket to identify third parties at fault besides the cruise ship company. They also have considerable experience in litigation against third-party vendors that frequently collaborate with these major cruise lines, like Starboard Cruise Services.

This prominent third-party retail company provides onboard retail services. No matter the nature of the injury or who is liable, please get in touch with an experienced cruise ship accident lawyer listed by ICVLA for a comprehensive evaluation of your claim. Working with an experienced maritime law attorney is essential if you are in a cruise ship accident. Marine and admiralty laws are particular and mainly based on the time limit on your cruise passenger ticket.

When you hire a lawyer listed in our “Best Cruise Lawyer” section, you can be confident knowing that you are working with a solo or law firm that boasts acceptance into the premier cruise law attorney network, including founder member Michael Ehline, named “Cruise Ship Lawyer of the Year” ® in 2016 by Hollywood Weekly Magazine.

Some of the locations where our contributors most commonly file our cases and represent clients include the following:

• Miami
• Houston
• Los Angeles
• Atlanta
• Seattle
• Hawaii.

Where Do You File Cruise Ship Accident Cases in Europe?

Regarding cruise ship accident cases in Europe, factors such as the incident’s location or the cruise company’s base dictate where the case is filed. Additionally, the terms of the cruise contract can also influence jurisdiction. Here are a few guiding principles to bear in mind: 

1. Location of the Incident:

If the accident took place within the territorial waters of a particular European country, it’s likely the case will need to be lodged within that country’s judicial framework.

1. Cruise Line’s Country of Operation:

Cruise lines often designate the jurisdiction to address all legal matters in their contractual agreements with passengers. This is usually the country where the company’s headquarters or critical administrative facilities are located.

1. Residential Nation of the Passenger:

Under some circumstances, and depending on the passenger’s national domicile, the case might potentially be filed in the passenger’s home nation.

1. Applicability of International Maritime Law:

International maritime laws may govern some incidents on cruise ships, and legal recourse might be examined through international treaties. However, this approach can be intricate and often necessitates consultation with an experienced maritime lawyer.

1. Within European Union Jurisdiction:

If a cruise ship operates within the auspices of the European Union, distinct regulations and prerequisites could influence where a claim is lodged.

It’s crucial to consult with a maritime or personal injury lawyer who specializes in cruise ship accidents. They can provide guidance based on the specific details of the incident and relevant legal considerations. Legal procedures can vary significantly from country to country, and professional advice is essential for navigating the complexities of international maritime law.

The experience and expertise of these attorneys can guide you in understanding your legal rights and options. With our vast pool of attorneys in Miami, Florida; Los Angeles, California; Galveston, Texas; Washington State, DC; Europe, Australia; and South Africa, we offer national and international availability to assist you. 

Given maritime and admiralty law’s complex and frequently global nature, your case may not necessarily be prosecuted in these specific locations. However, rest assured that when you get in touch with us.

Essential Information for Cruise Ship Passengers

As one prepares for their dream cruise ship vacation, the potential for things to go wrong is often the last thing on one’s mind. Thankfully, most cruises proceed smoothly, which is why cruise ship vacations continue to surge in popularity. However, when unexpected incidents occur at sea, these insights from a seasoned cruise injury attorney could be invaluable. 

Understanding Your Ticket

Your cruise ticket, often overlooked due to its tiny print, is a crucial document you must read thoroughly. It contains essential rights and restrictions. For instance, if you suffer an illness or injury on the cruise due to the shipping company’s negligence, you must file a lawsuit within one year or forfeit your right to legal action. Passengers and even some lawyers often miss this crucial provision. However, be aware that there are rare exceptions to this rule. 

Law of the Land, or Rather, the Sea 

While onboard the cruise ship, don’t assume that U.S. laws govern your voyage. Instead, the laws of the country whose flag the ship flies may rule. For example, if the ship flags Bahamian, Bahamas law applies, or if it’s Panamanian, then Panama rules. There are specific exceptions, but they are few and far between. 

Medical Services Onboard

Don’t take the ship’s doctor’s competence for granted just because they’re in a smart uniform and working in the ship’s medical center. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, research the healthcare standards of the cruise line you’re embarking with. Some lines provide superior medical care than others. Especially if you suffer from a heart condition, you wouldn’t want to cruise on a ship that employs, say, psychiatrists as ship doctors. 

Criminal Activities

Unfortunately, crimes that happen on land can also occur on cruise ships. It’s essential to be vigilant not to become a target. This vigilance extends to your children as well. Keep them supervised and never leave them unattended, as sexual assaults against minors do occur. Check who’s there before opening your cabin door, never leave the door unlocked, and never compromise on personal safety.

In Case Something Goes Wrong

In our experience, when an accident or crime occurs onboard a cruise ship, the shipping company’s first instinct is often self-protection. They might gather false evidence against you or manipulate you into making self-incriminating statements to reduce their liability. The last thing cruise ship employees will do is agree to improve safety measures.

Steps to Take Following a Cruise Ship Accident

• Ensure you file an accident report or crime report and secure a copy for your records.
• Thoroughly document your accident, capturing pictures of the scene, including locations of security cameras. Collect witness contact information and record the names of any crew members or cruise ship employees involved.
• Immediately seek medical attention from onboard medical staff.
• Contact a cruise ship passenger injury attorney as soon as you can.

Filing a Cruise Ship Lawsuit

The cruise line ticket often specifies where any lawsuit must be filed. But before you can file, you must make a claim with the cruise line within six months of your injury. As noted above, most large cruise lines define Miami, Dade County, Florida. The lawsuit must be filed in the correct jurisdiction and within the one-year deadline to sue. If not, the court will dismiss the suit, and you will lose your opportunity to file in the correct venue. Hopefully, these suggestions will remain merely pleasant precautions. Regardless, being aware of your rights and potential dangers is far more beneficial than being unprepared. Have a splendid voyage!

If you suffer an injury aboard a cruise ship, it’s imperative to consult a cruise ship accident attorney without delay. We are committed to dedicating the necessary attention to your case merits. We will advise you on your legal rights and the timeframe – or statute of limitations – that you must initiate a cruise ship lawsuit after an accident. 

Our maritime lawyers understand the numerous legal tactics cruise lines typically use. Our contributing attorneys have a proven track record of overcoming these obstacles. These marvelous lawyers can help ensure that accident victims understand the legal framework of the domestic or foreign legal jurisdiction claim. As top-rated, award-winning cruise ship accident lawyers, ICVLA associates have seen several tragic accidents and crimes in the industry. Though some of these incidents have been highly publicized, others have been swept under the ocean floor, never heard from again.

Looking at some of these maritime disasters and what happened to the victims is helpful. The cruise ship lawyers invited to ICVLA have handled thousands of cruise ship accident and injury cases and recovered more than $1 billion on behalf of their clients. You must avoid blowing your time limits to bring a claim. Call us immediately after injury to make a time cruise ship accident injury claim.