Shipping Lawyer Maritime Liens and Ship Arrests

Question 1

Which of the following gives rise to a maritime lien under US federal law?

Accepted Answer

Seamen's wages

Answer

Seamen's wages are a privileged maritime lien under 46 U.S.C. § 31301 and rank high in priority.

Question 2

Under the Federal Maritime Lien Act, which party may bring an in rem action against a vessel?

Accepted Answer

Any party holding a maritime lien

Answer

Any party holding a valid maritime lien may arrest the vessel and proceed in rem under the Federal Maritime Lien Act.

Question 3

What is the correct court to file an in rem vessel arrest action in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Federal district court with admiralty jurisdiction

Answer

In rem admiralty actions, including vessel arrests, must be filed in a federal district court exercising admiralty jurisdiction.

Question 4

Which maritime lien has the highest priority in a US vessel arrest proceeding?

Accepted Answer

Seamen's wages

Answer

Seamen's wages rank above preferred ship mortgages and most other liens in US maritime law.

Question 5

A vessel can be released from arrest by posting what type of security?

Accepted Answer

A bond or letter of undertaking

Answer

A vessel is released from arrest upon posting of a bond, letter of undertaking, or other approved security in the amount of the claim.

Shipping Lawyer Practice Test