Business Details
49 Years
experience
Your Trusted Maritime Injury Lawyers in New Orleans
Lambert Zainey has been a trusted name in maritime injury law for over four decades, dedicated to advocating for the rights of injured workers and their families. Our firm combines deep expertise in admiralty and maritime law with a relentless commitment to securing maximum compensation for clients through strategic litigation and personalized representation. With a proven track record of recovering over $1 billion in settlements and verdicts, we specialize in navigating complex legal frameworks such as the Jones Act, LHWCA, and OCSLA.Our team of nationally recognized attorneys leverages decades of collective experience to tackle high-stakes cases involving offshore accidents, oil rig disasters, and vessel transfers. We prioritize transparency, client education, and ethical advocacy, ensuring clients receive both legal excellence and compassionate support throughout the process. Our contingency fee model ensures access to justice without upfront costs, reinforcing our dedication to client-centric outcomes.
Services
Jones Act Claims
Offshore Injury Representation
Oil Rig Accident Litigation
Vessel Transfer Accidents
Maritime Wrongful Death
LHWCA Benefits Claims
Unseaworthiness Claims
Helicopter Accident Cases
Environmental Injury Litigation
Commercial Diver Injuries
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of specialized maritime law experience
- Over $1 billion recovered for maritime accident victims
- Nationally recognized attorneys with complex case expertise
- Contingency fee basis no payment unless we win
- Deep understanding of Gulf Coast maritime industry risks
What people say
Over $1 billion recovered
Free consultation
Nationally recognized
Contingency fee model
40+ years experience
Services
Jones Act Claims
We represent seamen injured due to employer negligence under the Jones Act. Our attorneys prove negligence to recover compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With decades of maritime law experience, we handle complex cases involving vessel unseaworthiness, unsafe working conditions, and inadequate training.
Offshore Injury Litigation
Specializing in offshore injury cases, we advocate for workers hurt on oil rigs, platforms, and vessels. Our team navigates OCSLA, LHWCA, and maritime law to secure benefits and third-party claims. We investigate equipment failures, safety violations, and corporate negligence to maximize client recovery.
Maritime Wrongful Death
We support families pursuing wrongful death claims under DOHSA for offshore fatalities. Our attorneys prove negligence or unseaworthiness to recover financial support for dependents. We handle complex cases involving vessel collisions, explosions, and equipment failures with compassionate, results-driven representation.
LHWCA Benefits Claims
We help dockworkers and longshoremen secure LHWCA benefits for injuries on navigable waters. Our firm ensures timely medical treatment coverage and wage replacement while challenging denied claims. We combine legal expertise with strategic negotiation to protect workers' rights under federal maritime law.
Vessel Unseaworthiness Claims
We hold vessel owners accountable for injuries caused by unseaworthy conditions. Our attorneys prove strict liability for defective equipment, inadequate crewing, or unsafe maintenance practices. With a track record of successful verdicts, we recover maintenance and cure payments plus additional damages for preventable maritime accidents.
People
Hugh P. Skip Lambert
Partner
Founding partner with 40+ years of maritime litigation experience. Specializes in complex cases involving environmental injuries and mass torts. Recognized for strategic trial expertise and leadership in Gulf Coast maritime law.
Jacki Smith
Partner
Dedicated maritime attorney focusing on Jones Act claims and commercial diver injuries. Advocates for workers' rights with a client-first approach, combining legal acumen with deep understanding of offshore industry challenges.
J. Christopher Zainey Jr.
Partner
Experienced trial lawyer handling catastrophic maritime injuries and multidistrict litigation. Brings expertise in offshore accident complexities and insurance negotiations to secure favorable outcomes for injured workers.
Jeremy Z. Soso
Partner
Skilled litigator managing diverse maritime and personal injury cases. Focuses on maximizing client recovery through thorough investigation of safety violations and corporate accountability in offshore environments.
Brian J. Mersman
Attorney
Maritime law specialist with environmental litigation certification. Concentrates on offshore injury claims and environmental damage cases, leveraging technical knowledge to build compelling arguments against major industry players.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a maritime injury?
Seek medical attention, report the injury to your employer, avoid signing documents without legal review, and contact a maritime attorney immediately.
How long do I have to file a maritime injury claim?
Jones Act claims typically have 3 years from injury date; LHWCA requires 30-day reporting and 1-year filing. Consult an attorney promptly.
Can I sue my employer for a maritime injury?
Seamen under the Jones Act can sue for negligence. Fixed platform workers typically receive LHWCA benefits but may sue third parties for unsafe conditions.
What compensation can I recover for offshore injuries?
Medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, maintenance and cure benefits, and vocational rehabilitation costs.
How are Lambert Zainey's legal fees structured?
Contingency fee basis – you pay nothing upfront. We only collect fees if we win your case.
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