Author Archives: Site Administrator
Virginia One of the Strictest States for Reckless Driving
Virginia is by no means easy on those that violate traffic laws. Virginia police officers enforce these traffic rules often. However, it may surprise some to find how strict Virginia’s reckless driving law is compared to the rest of the nation. A recent study shows just how strict our law regarding reckless driving truly… Read More »
Navigating the Various Virginia Courts
Going to court can be an intimidating thing. Those unfamiliar with the system may not know where to go, who to talk to, or how to resolve their case. It is important to know the different courts in Virginia and the types of cases they hear. A Virginia courthouse is typically split up between… Read More »
Assault and Battery Offenses in Virginia
Assault and battery crimes cover a wide range of conduct in Virginia. The status of the alleged victim of assault oftentimes determines the severity of…
Let the Discussion Continue – The BIMCO Terms 2015 Standard Bunker Contract: Addressing Consistent Inconsistency
In a recent article for the shipping industry magazine Bunkerspot, firm principal J. Stephen Simms analyzes past attempts and the rationale behind developing consistent international marine fuel sales terms and conditions. Since the 1990s, the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) – mostly comprised of shipowners and typically representative of their interests – has… Read More »
Leading From the Front: A Creditor’s Plan of Action
In an article for the shipping industry magazine Bunkerspot, firm principal J. Stephen Simms explains how bunker suppliers can act quickly and effectively to protect their own interests when owners or charterers file for insolvency. It is critical that bunker suppliers are aware of the nationality of the customer or entity that they are… Read More »
Casey L. Bryant Named 2016 Maryland Rising Star
Casey L. Bryant, an associate with the Firm, has been named to the 2016 Maryland Rising Stars list, published by Super Lawyers. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations… Read More »
Cyber Crime in the Bunker Industry
In an article for the shipping industry magazine Bunkerspot, firm principal J. Stephen Simms provides a counter-offensive to the growing threat of cyber hackers targeting the bunker industry. It is common place in the bunkering industry that bunker suppliers, brokers, traders and their customers undertake inquiries and transactions via unsecured and unencrypted email and… Read More »
Consequences of Marijuana Possession in Virginia
Simple marijuana possession is a misdemeanor offense in Virginia which could result in probation, fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
Reducing Exposure to Prosecution Under New MARPOL Requirements
In an article for the shipping industry magazine Bunkerspot, firm principal J. Stephen Simms outlines the steps bunker suppliers should take to reduce their exposure to prosecution under new MARPOL Annex VI requirements for supplying compliant fuel. As of January 1 2015, vessel charterers, owners and operators operating in emission control areas are required… Read More »
Tactical Thinking: Pre-Arrest Planning
Ship owners are typically well aware when their charterers are not paying for their bunkers, but they are quick to claim wrongful arrest whenever a trader or supplier attempts to recover payment for bunkers supplied. Because wrongful ship arrest claims are simple and inexpensive to make and carry no downside even if the threat… Read More »
