Maritime Litigation Support & Expert Witness

marine expert witness salvages.jpg

We collaborate with attorneys to deliver clear, compelling testimony and evidence that helps clarify technical and regulatory matters, ensuring your case is supported by credible and professional insight.


We perform investigations into marine incidents involving: collisions, personal injury (who is at fault), boating under the influence, environmental damages from collisions, and other marine mishaps/accidents. With over 15 years’ experience on the water and in maritime law enforcement, our knowledge of the marine field is extensive; we work with law firms, government agencies, and personal clients to interpret marine accidents and incidents. We compile evidence by reviewing investigation reports, depositions, witness statements as well as police reports and other federal agency reports and statements. We then advise our clients in court as an expert consultant or witness using our proven methodology.

  • Collisions involving vessels or port structures

  • Boating under the influence cases

  • Vessel groundings

  • Environmental damages

  • Marine Salvage

  • Maritime Navigation

  • Maritime Personal Injuries

Why Our Standards Set Us Apart

Five Fathoms Consulting upholds the highest standards of professionalism and technical accuracy. Here’s what distinguishes us:

  • With years of experience in marine consulting, permitting, and construction, we bring unparalleled expertise to every case.

  • Our approach combines meticulous research, real-world experience, and adherence to legal frameworks to deliver thorough and reliable findings.

  • We specialize in translating complex technical and regulatory language into straightforward, persuasive testimony that resonates with judges, juries, and arbitrators.

  • Our work is grounded in honesty, impartiality, and a commitment to factual accuracy, ensuring your case is backed by trustworthy evidence.

Deep Industry Knowledge: With years of experience in marine consulting, permitting, and construction, we bring unparalleled expertise to every case.

Comprehensive Analysis: Our approach combines meticulous research, real-world experience, and adherence to legal frameworks to deliver thorough and reliable findings.

Clear Communication: We specialize in translating complex technical and regulatory language into straightforward, persuasive testimony that resonates with judges, juries, and arbitrators.

Integrity and Objectivity: Our work is grounded in honesty, impartiality, and a commitment to factual accuracy, ensuring your case is backed by trustworthy evidence.

How We Support Maritime Law Cases:

Our expert witness services provide critical insights into the technical and operational aspects of maritime cases. From preparing detailed reports to delivering persuasive in-court testimony, we work hand-in-hand with legal teams to:

  • Build compelling arguments grounded in factual evidence

  • Anticipate and address opposing expert claims

  • Deliver courtroom presentations that are both professional and approachable


Why Choose Five Fathoms Consulting?

Proven Expertise: With a background rooted in marine consulting and hands-on experience in maritime operations, we bring both technical acumen and practical knowledge to your case.

Tailored Solutions: We adapt our services to meet the specific needs of your legal team and case requirements.

Track Record of Success: Our support has helped legal teams achieve favorable outcomes in complex maritime cases.

When maritime disputes demand precision and credibility, Five Fathoms Consulting delivers. Contact us today to learn how our expert witness and litigation support services can strengthen your case.


Case Involvement Examples:


●   Commonwealth v. Urbelis, (SSC 2016) USCG (Federal Officer)

●   F/V Princess Laura Anthony & Enzo Inc. (USDC 2011) USCG (Federal Officer)

●   Sally Olsen and Mark Olsen v. Peter Mullen and Irish Venture Inc. F/V Osprey (Expert Witness)

●   Matthew Holland v. Garrett Lee Saunders New York Supreme Court (ID# 20163109) (Expert Witness)

●   Richard Lane, Richard Palmer, and Lea Sutherland-Doane, As Administrator of the Estate of David R. Sutherland V. Unites States, and Phillip Powell and the F/V Foxy Lady. (Expert Witness)

●   Brian Sforza et al. v. Interstate Navigation Co. et al. (Expert Witness)

●   Kelly Wilhelm v. Chicago Lakefront Cruises Inc. (Expert Witness)

●   Dequian Vincent v. Dupre Brothers Construction Company Inc. (Expert Witness)

●   United States of America v. Greg Abbott in his capacity as Governor of the State of Texas, and the State of Texas. (Expert Witness)

●   Sean Ryan v. Schuyler Line Navigation Company LLC (Expert Witness)