G. Evan Spencer and Douglas J. Shoemaker ● Despite recent setbacks, a number of U.S. offshore wind projects remain on the books and on track. A recurring issue with these projects concerns what contractual indemnity scheme should apply. For offshore oil
Safe Passage
Safe Passage, published by Blank Rome, focuses on legal issues related to the maritime and shipping industries. The blog covers topics such as maritime environmental regulations, personal injury litigation under the Jones Act, liability for ocean freight, arbitration enforcement in maritime disputes, and contractual indemnity arrangements in offshore energy projects including wind and oil. It addresses regulatory developments, litigation trends, and contractual matters affecting shipping companies, seamen, consignees, and offshore project stakeholders. The content is aimed at legal professionals and industry participants navigating the complex legal landscape of maritime commerce and offshore energy.
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V.O.S. Selections, Inc. and the Sword of Yoshida
By way of executive order, the Trump administration has imposed tariffs on its global trading partners under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”), which gives the president powers to deal with national emergencies stemming from “any unusual and extraordinary…
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Trump Administration Resource Hub We invite you to visit our Trump Administration Resource Hub to explore our thought leadership provided by a team of attorneys dedicated to providing comprehensive analysis and actionable insights to help navigate the complexities and opportunities presented…
Navigating Safely: Tips for Commercial and Recreational Vessels Operating near Military Craft
Alan M. Weigel, Neil P. McMillan, and Holli B. Packer ● Every day, commercial, recreational, and military vessels encounter one another on the seas with different prerogatives—moving product as safely and efficiently as possible, enjoying a day on the water, or…
Navigating Maritime Evidence: The Power and Practice of Using Demonstrative Aids in Litigation
Douglas J. Shoemaker, Keith B. Letourneau, and Holli B. Packer ● Navigating the complexities of maritime litigation presents unique challenges distinct from other areas of law. The cases are often steeped in technical detail, involving complex vessel operations, intricate navigation principles,…
Regulatory Developments: Maritime Emissions
Vanessa C. DiDomenico ● Maritime environmental regulations have become increasingly prominent internationally as concerns over climate change and air pollution intensify. The shipping industry is under mounting pressure from governments, environmental organizations, and the public to reduce its environmental footprint. This…
FMC Announces Investigation Into Flags of Convenience and Unfavorable Conditions Created by Flagging Practices
Matthew J. Thomas, Jeanne M. Grasso, Kierstan L. Carlson, and Natalie M. Radabaugh ● The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (“FMC”) announced on May 21, 2025 that it is initiating a non-adjudicatory investigation into whether the: 1) vessel flagging laws, regulations, and/or practices of certain…
Navigating Uncertainty: How Recent IEEPA Tariff Rulings Impact the Maritime Industry
Keith B. Letourneau and Holli B. Packer ● On May 28, 2025, the United States Court of International Trade (“CIT”) issued a landmark decision in V.O.S. Selections, Inc. v. United States,[1] holding that tariffs imposed by the President under the International Emergency Economic…
The FMC Announces Investigation into Flags of Convenience and Unfavorable Conditions Created by Flagging Practices
Matthew J. Thomas, Jeanne M. Grasso, Kierstan L. Carlson, Natalie M. Radabaugh ● The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (“FMC”) announced on May 21, 2025 that it is initiating a non-adjudicatory investigation into whether the: 1) vessel flagging laws, regulations, and/or practices of certain foreign governments,…
Navigating Emission Control Areas: Operational, Legal, and U.S. Enforcement Risks of MARPOL Annex VI’s Low Sulphur Fuel Requirements
Luke M. Reid, Jeanne M. Grasso, and Holli B. Packer ● The North American Emissions Control Area (“ECA”), which has been in force well over a decade, is one of four existing ECAs around the world. Effective May 1, 2025, the…