What are the differences between maritime law and federal maritime law?

Maritime law and federal maritime law have important differences. Maritime law governs activities within a nation’s maritime boundaries, also known as its territorial waters. By contrast, federal maritime law is a branch of the federal government’s authority to regulate activities and commerce on the high seas, which are waters beyond any nation’s territorial boundaries. Maritime law is generally written by the individual nation, and has jurisdiction only within its territorial waters. This body of law sets out duties, responsibilities, and liabilities that apply to activities occurring in those waters, such as docking, navigation, and operation of a vessel. Naval, commercial, and recreational vessels all must adhere to maritime law. Federal maritime law, by contrast, applies to activities on the open ocean, and is established by the laws of the United States. This type of law usually pertains to commercial vessels, and includes regulations for collecting fees, filing of documents, and other activities. It is enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Navy. In Texas, maritime injury law can be complex and unique, so it is important to understand the difference between maritime law and federal maritime law when seeking legal help. An experienced maritime injury attorney in Texas will be familiar with both laws and can help you best understand how they apply to your case.

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