Questions & Answers

Why can’t I hire a local attorney from my home city?

Generally, your cruise line tickets contain a forum selection clause. In layman’s terms, your tickets require that you bring any lawsuit against the cruise lines in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Some of the clauses are even more specific and require your lawsuit to be filed in the federal court in Miami, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Thus, you will need to hire a Florida-licensed attorney.

Why do I need an oceans or admiralty attorney?

Ocean law stems from an ancient body of law referred to as general maritime law. When an accident occurs at sea, and often in port, the court looks to apply maritime law to determine the remedies available. Any action that is going to be brought for an accident on the water needs to be reviewed by an attorney specifically trained and experienced in maritime and ocean law. The procedures and remedies are distinct and unique. There are many pitfalls for those who are not well-skilled and experienced in admiralty and maritime law.

How can I hire an attorney in South Florida when I live in __________?

This is a common question, and the answer is simply that most matters can now be handled by e-mail, telephone, and facsimile. Even the federal court now accepts most documents to be filed by e-mail. While you will be required to attend your deposition and independent medical examination in person, and usually the mediation of your case, they will be conveniently scheduled over consecutive days for your convenience. Costs for this trip may also be advanced, if you request such financial assistance. The fact is that the case that your case will probably be more efficiently handled than a case brought in your city because your convenience is always taken into consideration to the extent that the courts allow.

Where can I get more specific information about my accident or case?

Contact information for John Penton can be found here. You are also encouraged to visit my firm's website for additional information about our experience and results.