Law Offices of Preston Easley APC

Commercial Diving Accident

Successfully represented a commercial diver who was seriously injured while cleaning the propeller of a U.S. Navy ship at Pearl Harbor.

Jones Act Seaman Action (Maritime Law)

Allowed barge based shipyard rigger to bring Jones Act seaman action against his shipyard employer. Reversed summary judgement granted by district court in favor of employer.

Jones Act Seaman Status (Maritime Law)

Landmark seaman status case, ended “enumerated employee” doctrine and gave shipyard workers injured on barges and floating platforms the right to sue their employers as seaman under the Jones Act. Affirmed Ninth Circuit decision which had reversed summary judgment granted by district court.

Jones Act Seaman Status (Maritime Law)

Reversed jury verdict, established new definitions for seaman status, and was first Ninth Circuit case to recognize the “fleet doctrine” in determining seaman status.

Maritime Negligence (Longshoremen)

The seminal Ninth Circuit case on vessel owner duties to longshoremen, allowed longshoremen to sue vessel owners for negligence even if hazardous condition existed at time of vessel’s construction. Ended immunity from “product liability” type actions that vessel owners previously enjoyed. Reversed summary judgment granted by district court.

Product Liability (Maritime)

Extended maritime (admiralty) jurisdiction to product liability case against manufacturer of pierside hydroblasting machine that caused injury to tank cleaner on ship. Reversed summary judgment granted by district court.