Law Community News

The Liberian International Ship and Corporate Registry (LISCR), which manages the Liberian Registry, has refocused its London office in order to provide shipowners and IMO with more experienced technical support. LISCR has appointed Peter Kidman, former Intercargo technical manager, to head up the office. Kidman is an experienced master mariner who is also qualified in maritime law. He has extensive experience of working with international shipping authorities. Yoram Cohen, ceo of LISCR, says, "London is a key international shipping centre and our office there has two challenging roles. One is to support the daily functions of the registry…

By Jeffrey S. The maritime law community is awaiting the next pronouncement by the U.S. Supreme Court pertaining to the definition of a Jones Act seaman. In February, the high court announced that it would review the decision of the First Circuit Court of Appeals in Stewart v. Dutra Construction Co., Inc. The definition of seaman has proven to be a nagging problem; this will be the fifth time since 1991 that the Justices have tackled some aspect of the question. Most injured maritime workers would prefer to pursue recovery as a "seaman". There are several reasons for this. First and foremost, the damages recoverable under the Jones Act are not limited to lost wages and benefits, but also include an important component for "pain and suffering".