Legal Definitions - Suits in Admiralty Act

Definition: The Suits in Admiralty Act is a federal law passed in 1920 that allows individuals who have been injured to sue the government in admiralty court. This law applies to cases involving maritime law, such as accidents that occur on ships or other vessels.

Example: If a sailor is injured while working on a government-owned ship, they may be able to file a lawsuit against the government under the Suits in Admiralty Act. Similarly, if a passenger is injured on a government-owned ferry, they may also be able to file a lawsuit under this law.

The examples illustrate how the Suits in Admiralty Act can be used to hold the government accountable for injuries that occur on maritime vessels. This law provides injured parties with a legal avenue to seek compensation for their damages, even if the government is involved.