Award-Winning Houston Jones Act Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a maritime accident, contact our dedicated Houston Jones Act lawyer at Morrow & Sheppard LLP for a free, confidential consultation.

Millions of Dollars Recovered for Our Clients
Hundreds of Cases Won in Excess of $1 Billion
Help With All Types of Jones Act Claims
A Track Record of Success
Only Pay If You Win

If you were injured as a seaman, you may be entitled to compensation under the Jones Act. In general, the Jones Act applies to work injury accidents on the high seas and navigable waters in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, or Arkansas. Our Houston Jones Act attorneys want to understand your unique situation so we can provide guidance that will help you obtain a favorable result against one of the largest maritime companies in the world. If you were injured working as a seaman on a tugboat, barge, cargo ship, or another vessel, you should speak with an experienced Jones Act attorney for a free, confidential consultation regarding your Jones Act case.

What Does A Houston Jones Act Attorney Do?

A Houston Jones Act attorney can assist maritime workers in reaching a settlement in several ways, such as assisting with medical expenses, gathering evidence, and providing legal advice. Jones Act settlements are crucial in maritime personal injury cases, and an experienced attorney can navigate the complexities of litigation to ensure a fair settlement. At Morrow & Sheppard LLP, we provide free legal advice to those who were catastrophically injured while working on a vessel during our free, confidential consultation. We evaluate the case and pursue it in the most effective way possible under the law. An experienced Houston Jones Act attorney can be found by calling (800) 489-2216 or using the contact form on this site. Let’s talk about your situation and the Jones Act claims settlement options that may be available to you. All Jones Act claims are handled on a contingency fee basis, and if a client seeks financial relief, there’s no fee unless we win their case.

The Jones Act Law, also known as the Merchant Marine Act, is the most relevant statute for maritime workers. It protects and empowers seamen to receive benefits and compensation if they become injured while on the job. A Houston Jones Act lawyer specializes in maritime accidents and has the right knowledge of the Jones Act Law and its specifics. They can protect your rights as well as provide legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Our experienced Houston personal injury attorneys at Morrow & Sheppard, LLP are committed to protecting the rights of injured maritime workers in Texas and Louisiana. Hiring a reputable personal injury attorney like us after an accident is crucial to determining whether or not you have a maritime injury case and getting legal advice on how to proceed. We provide a detailed guide to the Jones Act Law and why you should hire a Houston Jones Act lawyer.

What is the Jones Act?

The Jones Act is a federal law that regulates and governs the shipment of goods in the United States coastal waters. A Jones Act lawsuit must be filed in federal court, where unique regulations and special federal rules apply. The act’s main purpose is to enable seamen who have been injured at sea during employment to hold their employers liable for their injuries. The Jones Act Law was passed in 1920 to protect seamen and their rights. Before its existence, maritime workers had no protection, and many injured were deprived of necessary compensation. To close the loopholes that allowed employers to get away with negligence, the United States Congress enacted the Jones Act.

Key Provisions and Protections

Under the Jones Act, any individual who spends 30% of their time on board a navigating vessel is entitled to compensation. If you develop an illness or become injured while aboard due to negligence, you can hold your employer liable. The court determines the liability and responsibility for your case before offering monetary compensation.

Types of Vessels and Workers Covered by the Jones Act

The type of workers covered by the Jones Act are seamen – any individual employed or engaged in any capacity aboard a vessel. Jones Act seamen are those who spend a significant amount of their working time on a vessel in navigation and are entitled to legal rights and protections if injured during their employment. These vessels include cargo ships, cruise ships, casino boats, tankers, ferries, fishing boats, charter boats, as well as offshore drilling rigs. All boats and ships are covered under the Jones Act as long as they meet these specifications:

Registered and built in the US
Operated by permanent residents or US citizens
At least 75% owned by a company in the US
The crew comprises at least 75% Americans

Common Causes of Maritime Injuries

It’s inherently dangerous to work at sea, which is why maritime workers face numerous hazards daily. In fact, these hazards result in serious and life-threatening injuries impacting the quality of life for seamen. There are a dozen causes for maritime accidents, some of which are unavoidable, like weather, while others are directly attributed to human error. Common causes for maritime injuries include:

Vessel accidents and collisions
Slip and fall accidents
Equipment malfunction and failure malfunction
Inadequate supervision or training
Exposure to toxic chemicals and hazardous substances

Types of Injuries and Illnesses Covered by the Jones Act

The types of injuries and illnesses covered under the Jones Act include:

Physical Injuries

If you have sustained the following physical injuries while working at sea due to negligence, you are entitled to compensation:

Fractures and broken bones
Burns and electrocution
Amputations and crush injuries
Neck, head, and spinal cord injuries

Occupational Illnesses

According to OSHA, occupational illnesses are any disorders or abnormal conditions resulting from exposure or non-instantaneous event in the work environment – in this case, aboard a vessel.

Respiratory diseases
Tinnitus and hearing loss
Skin conditions
Long-term illnesses like cancer

Compensation and Benefits Under the Jones Act

Compensation and benefits offered under the Jones Act fall under the following categories:

Maintenance and cure: This covers wages, cost of living, as well as all reasonable medical expenses.
Lost wages and earning capacity: This covers money you could have earned but didn’t because you couldn’t work after your maritime injury.
Pain and suffering: This covers the physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by your injuries.
Medical expenses and rehabilitation: This covers all medical expenses for treating your injuries.
Loss of consortium and other non-economic damages: This covers damages such as loss of companionship, comfort, as well as intimate relations with family.

Proving Negligence and Unseaworthiness

Under the Jones Act, the employer or another worker must cause your injury or illness for you to receive compensation. Determining fault and proving negligence and unseaworthiness is crucial to pursuing your maritime injury case. A Houston Jones Act lawyer can help you prove negligence under the following claims:

Employer Negligence

Failure to provide adequate training and safety awareness
Lack of adequate safety measures and policies in place
Poor maintenance and repair

Vessel Unworthiness

Use of damaged and defective equipment and machinery
Hazardous conditions on board
Inadequate training or crewing

The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Houston Jones Act Lawyer

The Jones Act features a complex set of rules and principles that require the expertise and knowledge of a Jones Act lawyer to seek compensation. In fact, only a lawyer familiar with maritime law and its complexities can help you understand the total value of your claim and maximize your compensation. They can help you prove negligence, navigate the legal process, as well as deal with insurance companies. An experienced Houston Jones Act lawyer can also ensure the timely filing of claims and meet deadlines.

Our Law Firm’s Expertise and Track Record

At Morrow & Sheppard, we have a proven track record of success in maximizing compensation and finding justice for maritime workers after serious injuries aboard vessels. We’ve represented thousands of maritime injury workers and achieved favorable results for all our clients. Feel free to read some of our client testimonials. We commit to personalized attention and dedicated representation, which makes us the right Jones Act law firm for you.

How to Start With Your Jones Act Claim

To start with your Jones Act claim, schedule a free consultation with our top-rated Houston Jones Act lawyers. Be sure to prepare for the consultation by making a list of questions, gathering relevant documents, and determining your goals. After the consultation, we will build and pursue your Jones Act claim by gathering all the evidence and filing the claim. During negotiations and potential litigations, you can also expect offers from your employer or their insurance company. However, don’t sign any settlement paperwork or accept payment until you’ve discussed it with your lawyer. Contact us today to start with your Jones Act claim.

Morrow & Sheppard, LLP represents injured maritime workers in Texas and Louisiana, including those located in Houston, Beaumont, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Midland, Odessa, Corpus Christi, Port Arthur, Laredo, Lafayette, Lubbock, Amarillo, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, New Iberia, Lake Charles, Shreveport, Slidell, Carlsbad, Lovington, Hobbs, Roswell, and the surrounding communities.

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What Our Clients Are Saying

Excellent

4.9

Rod A.

Thank you so much Griselda for great service and helping me..through of the case..

Dray H.

From the very first consultation, I was struck by their professionalism and commitment. Chris and Daniel took the time to listen to my concerns, understand our situation, and outline a clear path forward. It was apparent that they all were not just going through the motions; they were genuinely invested in achieving the best outcome for my son as he suffered a lot from being hit by a car. Throughout the process, their hard work was evident. Your choice of legal representation can make a world of difference, and I am fortunate to have found a lawyer and Firm who embodies these qualities. Thank you once again for everything; your efforts will not be forgotten. If you need an honest law firm that's going to be transparent and help get the best results, call Morrow and Sheppard.

FRANK H.

They went through highs and lows to help me with my case. At the end we won thanks morrow & Sheppard so much…

Elena H.

They were professional and very helpful with everything. If had any questions they would be quick to respond and was able to help me understand it better on things during the whole case. Thank you so much and keep up the excellent work.

Pavan L.

I must recommend MS LLP for their superb services. Their team is very attentive and responsive in assisting at all times.

Cynthia D.

Griselda was so helpful and knowledgeable! She made the entire experience seamless and went the extra mile on our case. We are so happy we chose Morrow & Sheppard to represent us!

Michael J.

John Sheppard and Chris West did an outstanding job in representing me following a rear-end collision. Highly recommended!

Jeff S.

Nick and Laura are the best..They helped every step of the way.Can’t recommend them highly enough.Not only do they get results but they care and make you feel like family.

Cassandra M.

They were very professional and understanding. The have patience and do their job well. If I had to return I would with no hesitation

Juber M.

4 months agoI am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Nick Morrow end Laura on my case With the rest of his staff. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Laura end Nick would keep me up to date with the status of my case … More , They fought for me to get the best settlement possible.. I am happy with the outcome Thank you Nick and the staff Of MORROW END SHEPPARD LLP

Candace M.

Chris West is an excellent addition to the Morrow & Sheppard team. His skill set, dedication, and overall reliability he brings to the firm and clients are uncanny. You will not be disappointed.

Melis R.

I highly recommend the Morrow & Sheppard to anyone. They are an incredible group that did an outstanding job to make sure I got the highest settlement for my case. Attorney Daniel and his staff are all outstanding professionals with some serious case law knowledge and skill. His group went the extra mile for me and because of that, my life has forever changed. Thank you Attorney Daniel and everyone that’s a part of his firm that worked so hard. I really appreciate you!

D P.

I am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Daniel Sheppard and Chris on my case. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Daniel would keep me up to date with the status of my case and Chris would also ensure all my paper work was submitted in a timely manner. I am Very Happy with the Outcome! Thank you Daniel and Chris. I highly recommend their services and would not hesitate to use them again.

Nikki L.

Very strong and courageous law firm I recommend to anyone who has suffered a injury from companies who need to be held responsible for lack of safety and security, my family is set for life and with these lawyers never backing down and fighting for truth behind every case and seeking the best future for our family has given our family a second chance at being able to make it in life and holding companies accountable lifting burdens off our lives, very proud and beyond blessed to have had them fight the fight and have a tremendous outcome for our future. Along with a great and kind staff we HIGHLY recommend this law firm.

Marceline A.

I was a client for 2.5 years after a car accident in 2019 and represented by Patrick McGinnis. He was knowledgable, compassionate, and level headed.His assisting paralegal, Ramona Anaya, was reliable, knowledgable, and kind in all our interactions.They went above and beyond to help me navigate everything that unfolded after my car accident. They were able to secure a favorable settlement before trial.I’m very happy to have had Morrow&Sheppard Firm represent me.

angel martinez J.

Professional and knowledgeable with years of experience.

Richard L.

I had a accident and I chose morrow&sheppard they was great from the start to the finish Chris was real informative and helpful was the whole process and got me a fair settlement they really care about there Clients if you in a car accident call them

Amanda W.

After a car accident last year I went to Morrow & Sheppard for assistance. Jose and Chris were exceptionally accommodating and handled my case with professionalism. They're primary concern was my well being and they went above and beyond to ensure I would receive the best settlement possible. A very efficient and dedicated team!

Susan L.

I've been in the legal field for a while now and not only do I know John Sheppard & Nick Morrow, I have attorney friends that have worked with them throughout the years. This is a great firm and great people that work at Morrow & Sheppard. I have been reading the reviews on here and it makes me happy to see that their clients think as highly of them as I do.

Dale S.

I was injured and my business closed down due to an accident in 2016. Daniel Sheppard became my greatest asset. He hired professional experts for their views and opinions as well as conducting numerous depositions. Daniel is hard working and no nonsense when handling your case. Daniel keeps you informed on what's going on and what to expect. I'm from Louisiana and my case was in Texas. Daniel Sheppard worked alone side my other attorney Yuri Beck, and the both of them did a fantastic job representing me and settling my case. Daniel Sheppard of Morrow & Sheppard in Texas and Yuri Beck of Hunter & Beck in Louisiana are my lawyers for LIFE.

Rosie E.

Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were the lead attorneys on my case to hold an apartment complex with inadequate security responsible for the death of my son. The two of them were focused and determined to represent me and my son's children with tenacity. As the case continued over time, it became apparent that we were not merely clients that were a means to a financial end to them but people who had experienced a life changing and devastating loss. They realized that as a result of our loss, there needed to be accountability that could only be obtained through legal actions. Throughout the legal process, Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were not only professional and transparent but also compassionate and empathetic as they lead us through the difficult and sometimes confusing legal maze. Every person in their office that was involved with our case exemplified an extension of the genuine concern that began with attorneys Morrow and Sheppard. I have and will continue to recommend this firm to individuals who find themselves in need of legal representation.

Don D.

The legal team at Morrow and Shepherd worked hard to help me win my case where a motorist who caused the accident changed her story and lied about the accident. A previous attorney kept telling me that I would probably have to pay some of the medical costs out of my own pocket.Daniel, my attorney, assured me that he would it is best to make sure this did not happen and that he would fight to get me the best compensation possible. He was true to his word.I'm happy with their work, happy with the compensation and would definitely use them again.The Legal Assistant, Chris, was always professional, friendly and polite and a pleasure to work with.A big thanks to the team!Don

Jeff N.

Nick and his group have helped where they can and are working hard to get a resolution to my injuries. I spoke with 4 different law firms prior to choosing Morrow & Sheppard LLP.ThanksJeff

Elizabeth Swanson V.

I was referred to Daniel Sheppard because of a car accident I had been in. I was very impressed with how he told me about the process of how things worked and the things to expect. He was very forth coming and always supportive. The experience was a positive one and ended on a great note! I highly recommend him.Elizabeth Varon

Christine E.

Before I engaged John Sheppard, I was concerned that I might lose my case. However, John came onboard, turned things around, and set me on a good course to win. He got up to speed quickly on the facts and determined exactly what we needed to do. He is great at strategy, filing discovery and other motions, and arguing before the court. I was extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. If you need legal help in a personal injury action, commercial law or whatever, hire him immediately! He is a pleasure to work with, will thoroughly explain all to you in a manner you can understand, and will get you the best possible outcome. A+++

BB C.

I was seriously injured and they represented me and I was so happy with the outcome and would recommend them to any others seeking professional lawyers. They also set me up with the best doctors. My son and I have now put this lawsuit behind us thanks to Morrow & Sheppard.

Stephen T.

Phenomenal lawyer. I can not heap enough praise on these guys,.

III 4.

Nick Morrow is a GREAT lawyer that really knows his job. He made me feel comfortable about hiring him to handle my case. He’s trustworthy and very compassionate about his work. His staff is awesome also, everyone was nice and friendly to me when I visited the office. The settlement I received exceeded my expectations, it was four times what I expected. I would highly recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone needing legal representation. Thanks again Nick!!

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