Admiralty Records Guide
Maritime court records, vessel documentation, maritime liens, and admiralty filings.
Where to Find Admiralty Records
Vessel documentation, ownership, mortgage records, and maritime liens for documented vessels.
Admiralty cases are filed in federal district courts. Search PACER by case type 'Admiralty'.
State Vessel Registration
State-registered vessels (under 5 net tons) are tracked by state DMV or natural resources agencies.
Step-by-Step: Researching Maritime Records
- Determine if the vessel is documented (federal) or state-registered — documented vessels have an official number
- For documented vessels: search USCG NVDC by vessel name or official number
- Review the vessel's abstract of title — shows ownership chain, mortgages, and liens
- For admiralty court cases: search PACER by party name or vessel name in federal district courts
- Filter by nature of suit code 571 (admiralty and maritime) if searching by case type
- Check for maritime lien filings — these attach to the vessel regardless of ownership
- Review state vessel registration if the vessel is not federally documented
- Save all documentation with vessel name, official number, and dates
FAQ
What is admiralty jurisdiction?
Admiralty jurisdiction covers legal matters related to navigable waters, including maritime contracts, vessel collisions, cargo disputes, maritime liens, and injuries to seamen. These cases are heard in federal district courts.
What is vessel documentation?
Vessel documentation is the federal registration of a vessel with the U.S. Coast Guard. Documented vessels receive an official number and are tracked for ownership, mortgages, and liens. Vessels over 5 net tons must be documented.
What is a maritime lien?
A maritime lien is a claim against a vessel for services rendered (repairs, supplies, towage) or damage caused. It attaches to the vessel itself and survives ownership changes. Maritime liens are enforced through admiralty court proceedings.
How do I find an admiralty case on PACER?
Search PACER in federal district courts by party name or vessel name. You can filter by nature of suit code 571 (admiralty and maritime). The PACER Case Locator can search across all federal courts.
What is an abstract of title?
An abstract of title is the official ownership history of a documented vessel, maintained by the USCG NVDC. It shows all ownership transfers, mortgages, and lien recordings. You can request it from the NVDC for a fee.