James Norford Hurley

James Norford Hurley is a Shareholder and Chair for the firm’s Admiralty and Maritime Law Practice Group. With over 30 years of experience handling complex matters in the maritime industry, Jim provides full-cycle legal representation to his clients, from helping them achieve their initial goals to ensuring their continued success should disputes arise.

Jim represents domestic and international insurers, cargo carriers, major cruise lines, operators and charter companies, and marina and terminal owners and operators in negotiating and drafting various marine-related contracts essential to their business, including the purchase, construction and sale of vessels, financing and vessel registration, concessionaire contracts, contracts for charters, and storage contracts.

Additionally, Jim regularly assists private clients with purchasing, financing, and registering multi-million dollar vessels for personal use.

Jim has significant experience trying maritime and admiralty cases in state and federal courts, and frequently represents clients in disputes including passenger and crew personal injury claims, first party coverage disputes, property damage claims, and commercial disputes.

Jim also advises clients on regulatory compliances issues and defends civil, criminal, and administrative enforcement actions.

Jim is Board Certified in Admiralty & Maritime Law by the Florida Bar, served on the Certification Committee of the Admiralty and Maritime Section of The Florida Bar, and has assisted in drafting the certification exam.

He is also past Chair of the Southeastern Admiralty Law Institute, where he currently serves on its Advisory Committee.

Professional Associations and Memberships:

• The Florida Bar, Admiralty & Maritime Law, Certification Committee
• American Bar Association
• Dade County Bar Association
• Maritime Law Association