Navigating a maritime case demands a level of expertise that extends beyond the scope of general legal practice, emphasizing that not just any attorney can effectively handle a maritime case.
Maritime law is a specialized and intricate field that governs incidents occurring on navigable waters, encompassing a unique set of rules and regulations.
Unlike conventional personal injury cases, maritime cases involve specific statutes that require an in-depth understanding. Therefore, you need a maritime lawyer, not a personal injury lawyer.
Attorneys who lack experience in this niche may struggle to comprehend the nuances associated with maritime industries, making it imperative for individuals involved in maritime accidents, such as barge collisions or tugboat incidents, to seek legal representation from a qualified maritime lawyer.
NORFOLK MARITIME LAWYER RICHARD SERPE
Award-winning Norfolk maritime attorney Richard Serpe has successfully prosecuted cases under federal maritime law, including Jones Act cases, bringing fair and just compensation to those who were injured or killed while performing their duties.
Richard Serpe obtained a Master of Laws in Admiralty after law school and has obtained the highest ranking (Proctor) from the Maritime Law Association of the United States.
He’s earned a reputation as a well-respected, hard-working attorney with a tenacious approach to every case he takes on. Mr. Serpe has a track record of success in obtaining favorable settlements and verdicts for his clients.
VIRGINIA MARITIME SETTLEMENTS
- $3,500,000: Barge winch malfunction causes brain injury
- $1,500,000: Cargo ship collides with crane operator
- $1,250,000: Broken tugboat equipment causes client to fall
- $600,000: Unsafe conditions lead to electrocution
- $375,000: Maritime amputation injury
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
- Best Lawyers® (2005 – Present)
- Norfolk Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year (2020)
- Virginia Super Lawyer: (2006 – Present)
- Avvo.com : Rated 10/10 – “Superb”
- Martindale-Hubbell: AV Preeminent rating (highest given).
“A SETTLEMENT THAT CHANGED MY LIFE”
“After a major maritime accident on the water, I was scared and didn’t know where to turn. The Law Offices of Richard Serpe and his great staff treated me with the utmost respect and attention that I needed.
They treated me like a member of the family. I was awarded a settlement that changed my life and my family’s life, and I thank the law firm for that. Not only during the case, but after as well, the law firm has looked after me.
If I had to recommend anyone, I would recommend Richard Serpe.” – Eddie S.
NORFOLK MARITIME ACCIDENT NEGLIGENCE
This negligence can manifest in various forms, such as inadequate vessel maintenance, insufficient safety protocols, or the negligence of crew members. Whether it involves a shipping company’s failure to properly train and supervise its staff or a vessel owner’s neglect in maintaining seaworthy conditions, the consequences can be severe.
Victims of maritime negligence may suffer physical harm, emotional distress, and financial losses. Pursuing legal recourse in such cases typically involves engaging a maritime lawyer who specializes in admiralty law to navigate the intricate regulations and seek compensation for the injured party.
- Lack of proper safety training
- Lack of proper occupational training – crew member not properly trained for their job
- Poorly maintained, broken, or faulty equipment or machinery
- The employer fails to provide proper equipment for a crew member’s job/task
- Unseaworthy Vessel – when the vessel is not reasonably fit for its intended purpose
- Failure to hire a competent crew, negligent co-workers
- Collision with another vessel
Richard Serpe, an experienced maritime lawyer in Norfolk, specializes in addressing a diverse range of cases within the maritime industry. His practice includes handling incidents such as
- barge accidents
- tugboat accidents
- commercial fishing accidents
- dredging accidents
- collision accidents
- amputations
- electrocution injuries
- drowning and falling overboard
- cruise ship accidents
- crane and cargo accidents
- recreational boating accidents
- wrongful death
CONTACT OUR NORFOLK MARITIME LAWYERS

Maritime law is a distinct legal domain that governs accidents, injuries, and disputes occurring at sea. Unlike conventional personal injury lawyers, maritime attorneys have a deep understanding of statutes such as the Jones Act and other regulations specific to maritime industries.
Given the unique challenges posed by incidents like barge accidents, tugboat incidents, or commercial fishing mishaps, it becomes imperative to seek the services of a seasoned maritime lawyer. Contact the Law Offices of Richard J. Serpe, PC for your free consultation.













