Where must my Jones Act lawsuit be filed?

A: This is a complex question as the answer involves different levels of courts, locations and prevailing philosophies.

1) Levels of courts. An injured seaman may file a Jones Act lawsuit in federal or state court. In either case, there are multiple district court subdivisions. Some courts are more advantageous than others.

2) Locations. The case is typically filed in the district where the injury occurred or where the vessel owner or company's office is located. Occasionally there are contract provisions that have a say in the venue. Other factors include the location from which you departed to go offshore and the place where you received the initial medical treatment.

3) Philosophies. Each judge has his or her own judicial leaning. Different areas have juries more sympathetic to seafarers than other areas. An experienced offshore attorney is familiar with this and will direct your case to the most favorable judge, jury, court and location.