If you worked as a seaman and were not paid all wages owed, you may have strong legal rights under federal maritime law. Unlike typical employment claims, seamen are protected by long-standing admiralty principles that require vessel owners and operators to promptly and fully pay earned wages.
These protections apply to crew members working out of ports across Texas, including vessels operating near the Port of Galveston and the Houston Ship Channel.
Unpaid wage claims can arise from:
Failure to pay final wages at the end of a voyage
Withheld overtime or contract pay
Improper deductions from wages
Refusal to pay after termination or discharge
Disputes over day rates, bonuses, or contract terms
In many cases, maritime law allows seamen to recover penalty wages—which can significantly increase the value of a claim when wages are withheld without justification.
Unpaid wage claims are governed by federal maritime law, not standard state employment rules. Vessel owners often attempt to justify nonpayment based on contract terms, alleged misconduct, or disputes over job performance—but these defenses are not always valid.
At Gilman & Allison, LLP, we understand how to enforce seamen’s wage rights and hold maritime employers accountable.
How We Pursue Unpaid Wage Claims:
Proving wages were earned and wrongfully withheld
Establishing improper or unlawful deductions or offsets
Pursuing penalty wages when payment was delayed without cause
Analyzing employment contracts and maritime pay structures
Securing payroll records, contracts, and voyage documentation
We represent seamen working on offshore vessels, tugs, barges, dredges, and commercial ships throughout Texas and the Gulf Coast.
Maritime wage claims require a focused legal strategy grounded in admiralty law—not traditional employment law.
Protect your livelihood and get the maritime legal help you need. Call toll-free at 888-225-5767 or contact us online to set up your initial consultation.
Spanish-speaking services are available.