Injured? Protect Your Rights.

30+ years of experience protecting injured victims.

Experienced Maritime Lawyer

We Protect the Rights of Maritime Injury Victims

If you have been injured in a maritime accident, the Willis Law Firm is here to help. We have over 30 years of experience protecting the rights of workers and other individuals who have suffered serious maritime injuries. Our firm understands that the legal system can be intimidating and confusing for injury victims. We are here to answer your questions in the strictest confidence and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Maritime injuries and accidents can have catastrophic, life-changing consequences for victims and their families. In addition to your initial pain and suffering, you may experience serious ongoing medical problems that prevent you from reaching a full recovery and returning to work. While your employer may promise to take care of you and find you a new position that accommodates your injuries, these types of promises are often not fulfilled. Far too often employers and their insurance companies deny responsibility and look for ways to limit the amount of compensation they are required to pay injured workers.

Whether you have been injured on a ship, jack-up oil rig, offshore platform, barge, tugboat , fishing boat, or other type of vessel, you need a strong team of experienced Jones Act and maritime lawyers on your side. It is important to remember that your interests and the interests of your employer are not always aligned. At the end of the day your employer will be looking out for its own interests. David Willis, a Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer, can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.

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For 30 years we have recovered millions for our clients. See what they say:

When my dad was diagnosed with cancer due to toxic chemicals in some holding tanks, our family talked to many law firms, but chose Mr. Willis as our attorney. He worked tirelessly throughout the legal process and saw to it that our family and our needs were well taken care of. He remains a friend of our family and we highly recommend him to anyone who needs someone to fight for them.- Lindsey C.

"Mr. Willis came highly recommended by a senior partner in a major corporate law firm. Willis battled the chemical companies and won our case. Even 15 years later, he is still a close friend of the entire family."- Melissa C.

"When my husband got seriously injured we interviewed lots of trial lawyers until we met Mr. Willis. Instantly we knew he was the one. He didn’t let us down. His tenacity and fight changed our lives."- Sherry Lynn B.

"As a trial lawyer & former Texas Judge, when my own daughter got seriously injured, I thought of no other lawyer to call to handle my daughter’s injury case except David Willis."- Ben C.

"When my husband was diagnosed with AML Leukemia from benzene exposure, we interviewed numerous attorneys, but choose Mr. Willis. He fought for us every step of the way and his office was always there for us. In fact, Mr. Willis even took my husband on his last deer hunting trip 10 months before he died. We trusted Mr. Willis and he didn't let us down." - Isabel H.

"After I got seriously injured I felt lost and helpless. My father suggested I call Attorney Willis to help. His legal staff was amazing. Extremely patient and always called back when they promised. They were always available for me and helped push my case along fairly quickly. I highly recommend them to anyone I know."- Melvin D.

"After our son was killed in an explosion we needed help. A neighbor had used Willis when his mom died and recommended we do too. Willis was the right choice. Though his law office was 100's of miles away, he was always there for us. Willis always kept his word and fought tirelessly throughout the entire case. Years after the settlement, we still consider Willis a friend we can call upon and have recommended to others too." - Maxine G

"Mr. Willis did an incredible job for us on a lawsuit involving my mom’s death. Over the last 20 years I have proudly recommended him to many close friends when they needed a lawyer. I know for a fact he did agreat job on each of their cases and they all thanked me again for giving them his name. Willis is a one of a kind lawyer. His doors are always open. I can still call him up and “shoot the breeze” with him. Don’t hesitate to call him if you too need help."- J.L.N

Over 30 Years we've recovered Millions, Millions & Millions for our Clients

When my dad was diagnosed with cancer due to toxic chemicals in some holding tanks, our family talked to many law firms, but chose Mr. Willis as our attorney. He worked tirelessly throughout the legal process and saw to it that our family and our needs were well taken care of. He remains a friend of our family and we highly recommend him to anyone who needs someone to fight for them.- Lindsey C.

"Mr. Willis came highly recommended by a senior partner in a major corporate law firm. Willis battled the chemical companies and won our case. Even 15 years later, he is still a close friend of the entire family."- Melissa C.

"When my husband got seriously injured we interviewed lots of trial lawyers until we met Mr. Willis. Instantly we knew he was the one. He didn’t let us down. His tenacity and fight changed our lives."- Sherry Lynn B.

"As a trial lawyer & former Texas Judge, when my own daughter got seriously injured, I thought of no other lawyer to call to handle my daughter’s injury case except David Willis."- Ben C.

"When my husband was diagnosed with AML Leukemia from benzene exposure, we interviewed numerous attorneys, but choose Mr. Willis. He fought for us every step of the way and his office was always there for us. In fact, Mr. Willis even took my husband on his last deer hunting trip 10 months before he died. We trusted Mr. Willis and he didn't let us down." - Isabel H.

"After I got seriously injured I felt lost and helpless. My father suggested I call Attorney Willis to help. His legal staff was amazing. Extremely patient and always called back when they promised. They were always available for me and helped push my case along fairly quickly. I highly recommend them to anyone I know."- Melvin D.

"After our son was killed in an explosion we needed help. A neighbor had used Willis when his mom died and recommended we do too. Willis was the right choice. Though his law office was 100's of miles away, he was always there for us. Willis always kept his word and fought tirelessly throughout the entire case. Years after the settlement, we still consider Willis a friend we can call upon and have recommended to others too." - Maxine G

"Mr. Willis did an incredible job for us on a lawsuit involving my mom’s death. Over the last 20 years I have proudly recommended him to many close friends when they needed a lawyer. I know for a fact he did agreat job on each of their cases and they all thanked me again for giving them his name. Willis is a one of a kind lawyer. His doors are always open. I can still call him up and “shoot the breeze” with him. Don’t hesitate to call him if you too need help."- J.L.N

What Do You Need Help With?

The Jones Act is a federal law that governs the liability of vessel operators and marine employers for work-related injuries or the death of an employee.

Jones Act

Maritime law provides legal rights and remedies for maritime workers who have suffered an offshore or inland waterway injury during the course of employment.

Maritime Law

Individuals who have been injured while on a ship, vessel, offshore platform or other maritime structure are entitled to compensation from employers and other parties responsible for their injuries

Maritime Injuries

Seamen injured while in the service of a vessel are entitled to receive maintenance (compensation for daily living costs) and cure (compensation for medical expenses) benefits from their employer.

Maintenance and Cure

Workers and other individuals who have been injured on an inland waterway, such as a river, canal or lake, are entitled to receive compensation for their injuries.

Inland Waterway Injuries

Individuals who are injured while working on an offshore platform, rig, drilling ship or other seagoing vessel have the right to seek compensation for injuries and accidental death.

Offshore Injuries

Why Choose The Willis Law Firm?

Confidential Free Consultations

If you have questions we are here to help. We offer free initial consultations and everything you tell us will be kept strictly confidential even if you decide not to hire our firm.

Same Day Return
Phone Calls/Emails

We know that the legal system can be confusing. Our firm is here to answer your questions and a lawyer will return your calls and emails the same day.

No Fee Unless We Win

Our firm takes cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not have to pay any legal fees or expenses unless we secure compensation for you.

Multi-Lingual Staff

We want to make sure that all of our clients understand their legal rights and options. We offer a multi-lingual staff fluent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Available 24/7/365

Injuries and accidents don’t just happen from 8-5, they can occur at any time of the day. We are here when you need us most – 24/7/365.

30+ Years Experience

If you have a Jones Act or maritime injury claim you have come to the right place. With over 30 years of experience protecting injured workers, David Willis knows the ins and outs of these complex laws.

Companies We've Had Cases Against:

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Learn More About Mr. Willis

Meet David Willis

David Willis is an experienced Jones Act and maritime injury attorney who represents injured seamen and injured workers in negligence and product liability cases nationwide. Mr. Willis has over 30 years of legal experience and is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He is a graduate of Baylor University and received his law degree at the South Texas College of Law. Mr. Willis is admitted to practice law in both Texas and New York and served as a former attorney on the Supreme Court of Texas. Currently, he is a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Texas Bar Foundation and the American Association for Justice. In 2015 he was elected as a member of the Maritime Law Association of the United States (MLA). Mr. Willis is committed to representing victims of serious injuries and accidents. In every case, he builds a strong team of lawyers focused on achieving a fair and just recovery for injured victims and their families.

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You Have Questions, We Have Answers

How are Jones Act Settlements Calculated?

While you may be thinking there is an easy formula you can use to calculate your damages, the reality is that maritime injuries can be are complex. Even if you have a dollar figure in mind, you should consult with an attorney first to see what's reasonable.

How am I going to live without a steady paycheck?

Under the Jones Act, an injured seaman is entitled to receive daily compensation (maintenance) and medical (cure) payments from his or her employer. Your employer is legally required to make these payments to you regardless of who is at fault for your injuries.

Should I continue to speak with my employer about my case?

When you have been involved in a workplace accident, you should try to talk as little as possible about your case to anyone. While it is fine to maintain a friendly and amicable relationship with your employer and co-workers, you should avoid discussing the details of your accident or injuries.

Should I give a recorded statement to an investigator?

Absolutely not. If your employer or an investigator asks you to provide any type of sworn or recorded statement you should never do so until after you have talked with your attorney.

Go To the Jones Act Information Center

News Feed

Injured By a Barge? Our Iowa Barge Accident Lawyer Discusses Your Legal Options

The U.S. Coast Guard and OSHA set federal safety standards and regulations that barge owners, including those operating in Iowa ports, must follow. Below are four things you need to know about Iowa maritime law, as well as the possible legal remedies available to individuals injured by a barge in Iowa waterways. What Ports Are Available For Transporting Cargo in Iowa? Iowa has three main ports, including the Port of Burlington, Port of Dubuque, and Port of Keokuk. The Port of Burlington is located in southeastern Iowa in Des Moines County, Iowa, and is on the Mississippi River’s western shores. The Port of Burlington is a hub for the micropolitan area of West Burlington and Middleton, Iowa, and Gulf Port, Illinois. The Port of Dubuque is located in downtown Dubuque, Iowa, positioned near the upper Mississippi River inside the protected Ice Harbor. Visitors and residents enjoy the many downtown and Port of Dubuque attractions. The Port of Keokuk is located in southeast Iowa and lies at the mouth of the Des Moines River where it meets the Mississippi River. The Port of Keokuk has a diverse economy based on agriculture, wholesale distribution and trade, and manufacturing. Lee County has two county seats: the Port of Keokuk and Fort Madison. Thousands of residents, maritime workers, and visitors are in and out of these busy ports each year. U.S. Coast Guard and OSHA Safety Standards Apply to Barge Owners The U.S. Coast Guard and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issue […] •••

September 30, 2020

Three Common Dangers Facing Travelers on the Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is the second-longest river on the North American continent bordering or passing through Arkansas, Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Louisiana. This famous river can be divided into three main sections: the Upper Mississippi, the Middle Mississippi, and the Lower Mississippi. Unfortunately, although the Mississippi River is a popular source of transportation for cargo on barges, it has experienced significant pollution and environmental problems over the years. Additionally, many dangers lurk below and above this waterway, causing dangerous perils for thousands of voyagers traveling up and down the Mississippi each year. Below, our Mississippi barge injury lawyer discusses three tips to avoid dangerous perils that await Mississippi River voyagers. Beware of Hazardous Twists and Turns on the Mississippi River The Mississippi River has stretches of high and low water that have made the passage up and down this river treacherous for travelers. Especially when the river floods, it can create an aquatic obstacle course for travelers, creating current traps and sandbars that cut into the main navigation channel. Mississippi voyagers should be prepared for these twists and turns along their trip. Watch for Dangerous and Rapid Currents Sometimes the Mississippi River’s current is traveling at a high velocity. Dangerous currents can cause vessels to lose control and collide with other boats or even bridges and embankments, severely damaging vessels and causing injuries to workers, passengers, and even bystanders. Be Prepared for Changing Water Levels The Mississippi River’s water levels can frequently change, causing changes in […] •••

September 28, 2020

Our Louisiana Barge Accident Lawyer Recommends These 4 Tips to Decrease Injuries While Boating in Louisiana

Millions of Americans either work aboard a vessel or enjoy recreational boating each year. While doing so, it is important to take certain safety precautions to prevent serious injuries, including death. Below are four tips to decrease injuries while aboard a vessel in Louisiana. Wear U.S. Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets Barge workers and individuals enjoying recreational boating activities should wear life jackets while aboard a vessel that are appropriately-sized and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. You should always make sure your life jacket is in good condition before departing on your voyage. Avoid Drinking Alcohol Before or During Working on a Barge or Recreational Boating Outings Vessel operators and passengers should avoid drinking alcoholic beverages before or during working or recreating on a boat or vessel. Alcohol has been proven to impair cognitive abilities, affect judgment, and compromise balance, which can cause injuries such as falling overboard, slipping and falling, or even colliding with another vessel. Use the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron’s Vessel Safety Check Service Before departing on a voyage, the operator of a vessel (and/or vessel owner) should use the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron’s Vessel Safety Check Service. This service encourages checking items such as display numbers, registration documents, personal flotation devices, visual distress signals, fire extinguishers, navigation lights, and more. Below are some additional safety resources from the U.S. Coast Guard and OSHA: U.S. Coast Guard Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division OSHA Deck Barge Safety OSHA Safety and […] •••

September 23, 2020

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Willis Law Firm, Offshore & Maritime Lawyer

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