Houston is home to one of the busiest ports in the country and with it comes increased scrutiny from federal and state authorities on maritime operations. At Hilder & Associates, P.C., we represent clients facing criminal investigations and charges related to maritime law, including those involving environmental violations, fraud, and regulatory compliance. With decades of white-collar criminal defense experience, our Houston-based firm is prepared to defend maritime professionals, shipping companies, offshore operators, and other stakeholders navigating complex legal challenges.
Our attorneys have deep experience defending clients throughout all phases of the process, from initial inquiries and subpoenas to grand jury investigations and prosecution, with the goal of avoiding indictment, preventing prosecution, or securing dismissal whenever possible. We can respond immediately with experienced attorneys and professionals to meet any emergency.
Contact Hilder & Associates, P.C. today at 713-655-9111 for a confidential consultation.
Maritime Law
Maritime law is a complex web of international treaties, federal statutes, and regulations that impose criminal penalties on ship owners and operators for violations of law. The U.S. Coast Guard and federal prosecutors aggressively pursue MARPOL violations including the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS) or false statements made in Oil Record Books or obstruction of justice by crew during the investigations. These investigations are particularly precarious for ship owners, ship managers or operators because it can result in the vessel and crew being detained as well as expensive fines – all of which can take the vessel out of service for days to months and cost its owners millions of dollars in lost revenue, fines, fees, and other costs – to say nothing of potential imprisonment of liable individuals.
Aggressive Defense for Maritime-Related Criminal Allegations
Maritime operations involve a unique overlap of federal statutes, international agreements, and agency enforcement. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations governing the shipping industry, and we provide strategic defense against a range of charges, including:
- Environmental Violations (e.g., MARPOL)
Illegal discharges or dumping, falsification of oil record books, and pollution-related violations can result in severe penalties and jail time. We defend shipowners, operators, and crew members targeted in EPA or Coast Guard-led investigations. - Customs & Import/Export Violations
Mislabeling cargo, failing to declare goods, or violating trade sanctions can trigger federal criminal charges. We help clients respond to investigations by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other authorities. - Maritime Fraud & False Claims
Allegations of fraud involving shipping contracts, government reimbursements, or insurance claims demand immediate and skilled representation. - Worker Safety & Offshore Injury Investigations
Operators and supervisors may be charged under federal laws following serious offshore accidents or fatalities, including violations of the Jones Act or OSH regulations. - Violations of the Jones Act & Other Statutes
We represent companies and individuals in investigations involving unauthorized crew employment, improper vessel registration, and flagging violations.
Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships
MARPOL Annex I was designed to prevent oil pollution from ships. The U.S. is a signatory to the MARPOL 73/78 and Annexes I, II, III, V, and VI and has implemented it in the APPS. The Department of Justice prosecutes MARPOL and APPS violations routinely in federal courts.
The first notice a ship owner or manager may have of any potential problem is when the U.S. Coast Guard boards a vessel after it comes into port. The U.S.C.G. will request to inspect the Oil Record Book and other documents. They may also interview the crew and inspect the vessel, particularly looking to see if the Oil Water Separator has been tampered with or bypassed by the use of a “magic pipe.”
Because the ship may be liable in rem and seized or sold, prosecutors may demand the execution of a Security Agreement before the vessel is allowed to depart, providing for a bond on the vessel and making provisions for the housing and maintenance of the crew to remain in the area while the investigation is completed. The assistance of experienced counsel is critical to prevent this from happening or in order to obtain release.
False Statements
Presenting false documents to the U.S. Coast Guard, including an Oil Record Book that omits the occurrence of an oily water discharge of untreated bilge or other matters is a federal crime routinely prosecuted in federal courts. This may occur even when responsible managers or owners have no knowledge of any violation.
Similarly, officers or crew can be prosecuted for making false statements to federal law enforcement who interview them during inspections or investigations in the U.S. Making false statements is a crime that can result in significant fines and imprisonment of five to eight years depending on the circumstances.
Emergency Maritime Response
Hilder & Associates’ white collar crime attorneys are available to immediately respond to maritime situations with advice, guidance, and a necessary investigation, especially in cases of an emergency or unexpected occurrence.
Whether the U.S. Coast Guard or other law enforcement have boarded the vessel, a spill or unauthorized discharge has occurred, an internal investigation is required, or a crew member has been arrested on leave, Hilder & Associates can respond immediately and deploy a team of experienced attorneys to suit your needs. Contact us at 713-655-9111 for skilled and swift legal defense.
Defending Clients in High-Stakes Federal Investigations
Most maritime criminal matters fall under federal jurisdiction and involve agencies such as the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Justice, Environmental Protection Agency, and Department of Homeland Security. Our team understands how these investigations unfold and works swiftly to protect your rights.
Whether you’re facing a grand jury subpoena, an onboard inspection, or formal criminal charges, our attorneys provide discreet, knowledgeable guidance from day one. We can intervene early in the process to help mitigate risk and prevent escalation.
Why Choose Hilder & Associates, P.C.?
- Decades of Federal Defense Experience
Led by former federal prosecutor Philip H. Hilder, our firm has earned a reputation for handling high-stakes white-collar and regulatory cases throughout Texas and beyond. - Confidential, Strategic Counsel
Maritime investigations are sensitive, and reputations are on the line. We take a strategic, low-profile approach to protecting your interests and limiting exposure. - Deep Knowledge of Maritime Law & Industry Practices
From shipping regulations to offshore operations, we understand the real-world context of the maritime industry and how to build effective legal defenses within it.
If You’re Under Investigation or Have Been Charged, Don’t Wait
Maritime charges are often the result of lengthy investigations. If you suspect you’re being scrutinized or have received a subpoena, do not speak with authorities without legal counsel. Our Houston maritime defense lawyers are ready to help you understand your options and protect your future.
For immediate legal support in maritime matters, contact Hilder & Associates, P.C. at 713-655-9111.
