Maritime Attachment & Arrest

Maritime attachments and vessel arrests are very useful tools for maritime claimants. The successful use of Rule B and Rule C of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure can provide prejudgment security and potential satisfaction for maritime claims and judgments. The underlying rights and procedures are in many respects unique to maritime law, and they can vary from district to district. Plaintiffs should be familiar with the local rules and consider their exposure to counterclaims and corresponding countersecurity before commencing attachment or arrest proceedings. In turn, defendants or those claiming an interest in any attached or arrested property should consider making a restricted appearance, posting security, and requesting an emergency hearing. This article briefly discusses maritime attachments and arrests under US maritime law.