Houston, Texas, sits at the heart of the U.S. maritime and offshore industries. From oil rigs and cargo ships to dockyards and inland waterways, thousands of maritime workers rely on legal protection in case of offshore injuries. When accidents happen, having a knowledgeable and experienced maritime attorney can make all the difference.
In 2025, these Top 10 Houston Maritime Attorneys stand out for their expertise, client satisfaction, and successful track records in offshore injury claims under the Jones Act, Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), and general maritime law.
1. Kurt Arnold – Arnold &Itkin LLP
Kurt Arnold has built a reputation as one of the most successful maritime lawyers in the country. Based in Houston, Arnold &Itkin LLP has recovered billions of dollars for offshore injury victims. Kurt’s aggressive litigation style, combined with his deep understanding of maritime law, makes him a top choice for injured offshore workers.
Specialties: Jones Act claims, oil rig injuries, wrongful death, vessel accidents
Why He Stands Out: Record-setting verdicts and relentless pursuit of justice
2. Jason Itkin – Arnold &Itkin LLP
Co-founder of Arnold &Itkin, Jason Itkin is equally formidable in court. Known for taking on major oil companies and winning massive settlements, Jason has helped offshore workers recover their lives after life-altering accidents.
Specialties: Offshore explosions, crane accidents, chemical exposure
Notable Wins: $222 million verdict for a maritime worker
3. Brian Beckcom – VB Attorneys
Brian Beckcom is a recognized voice in maritime law, with an emphasis on representing injured seamen and offshore workers. VB Attorneys has earned praise for its client-focused approach and deep resources for investigating complex claims.
Specialties: Jones Act cases, barge accidents, LHWCA claims
Client Praise: “Brian treated me like family throughout my case.”
4. Daniel Horowitz – The Law Office of Daniel D. Horowitz III PC
Daniel Horowitz is known for taking personal injury cases involving maritime workers very seriously. He has a reputation for tackling complicated cases and winning significant settlements for offshore workers injured due to negligence.
Specialties: Tugboat injuries, pipeline explosions, employer negligence
Strengths: Attention to detail and personalized service
5. Matthew Shaffer – Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP
With over 30 years of experience in maritime law, Matthew Shaffer is a highly respected name in Houston. He’s handled countless Jones Act cases and is known for obtaining fair compensation for workers who’ve suffered due to offshore negligence.
Specialties: Jones Act, barge accidents, drilling rig injuries
Unique Value: Offers free consultations and handles nationwide cases
6. Carla Johnson – Johnson Garcia LLP
Carla Johnson has emerged as a strong advocate for injured offshore workers. At Johnson Garcia LLP, she handles complex maritime injury claims with a focus on compassion, legal skill, and transparency.
Specialties: Shipyard accidents, rig collapses, employer safety violations
Why Clients Recommend Her: Patient, thorough, and strong communicator
7. Tony Buzbee – The Buzbee Law Firm
Tony Buzbee is a name often associated with high-stakes litigation. He’s won multiple multimillion-dollar settlements for clients injured offshore. A former Marine, Buzbee brings tenacity and a fighter’s mindset to the courtroom.
Specialties: Offshore explosions, helicopter crashes during rig transfer
Media Attention: Known for high-profile cases against oil giants
8. Ryan Zehl – Zehl& Associates, PC
Ryan Zehl is a fierce litigator with a track record of securing life-changing compensation for offshore injury victims. His firm exclusively handles serious personal injury and maritime cases, which allows for highly focused representation.
Specialties: Jones Act claims, traumatic brain injuries, back and spinal injuries
Impressive Stats: Hundreds of millions won for maritime clients
9. John Neese – Neese Law Firm
John Neese has represented seamen, offshore platform workers, and deckhands for over two decades. His background as a former insurance defense lawyer gives him unique insight into how companies try to avoid liability.
Specialties: Drilling platform incidents, vessel sinkings, employer negligence
Added Advantage: Former insider knowledge of insurance tactics
10. Rand Mintzer – Rand Mintzer, Attorney at Law
While better known for his criminal defense work, Rand Mintzer has handled a growing number of offshore injury cases in recent years. His meticulous approach and client-centered attitude have led to impressive results in complex maritime claims.
Specialties:Longshore injuries, catastrophic offshore accidents
Client Loyalty: Known for being accessible and deeply committed
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a deckhand injured in a barge accident or a roustabout hurt in an offshore rig explosion, having the right maritime attorney in your corner is critical. These Houston-based lawyers have proven themselves time and again in courtrooms and negotiations, helping injured workers rebuild their lives.
If you or a loved one has been injured offshore, don’t delay. Speak to a qualified maritime attorney today to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve under the Jones Act or other maritime laws.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Jones Act?
A federal law that allows injured seamen to sue their employer for negligence that led to injury while working on navigable waters.
Q2: How much does it cost to hire a maritime lawyer?
Most work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
Q3: How long do I have to file an offshore injury claim?
Typically, within 3 years under the Jones Act, but sooner is always better.