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Affected by BP Oil Spill? Where to Turn for Legal Help Depends on Your Issue
With the status of the Gulf oil spill changing daily, it's difficult for those who need help to know where turn. Those who make their living in or around Gulf Coast waters, or who live or work near the affected areas may be able to get financial help with the right legal representation.
It will likely take time for Federal & Local governments to provide recovery relief however some may be able to take steps now to legally recover some of what they have lost.
The FindLaw.com editorial team created a new section to help those impacted by the BP spill to find a qualified lawyer. The section also provides consumers and small businesses with basic legal information about the spill, current legal news, and helpful links to oil spill resources.
Finding the Right Legal Help
Since many lawyers specialize in particular areas of law, the type of attorney you will need will depend on your situation.
Do you make a living on boats, barges, tugs or rigs in the Gulf Coast?
An Admiralty & Maritime Lawyer will likely be able to help you in making a claim under a provision of the law called the Jones Act.
Do you live or work in/near a coastal Gulf area?
Are you employed to clean up the spill? Are you also experiencing health related issues that can be attributed to the oil spill, the toxic fumes, or the chemicals used to clean up the spill? If so, A Toxic Tort attorney may be qualified to assist you in receiving damages or other assistance.
Are you a small or mid-sized business who relies on the Gulf Coast fishing or tourist industry?
If your business has been negatively impacted by the Oil Spill, an environmental law attorney may be able to help.
To find the right Oil Spill attorney for your needs and to get more legal information and resources related to the BP Oil Spill, visit FindLaw's Gulf Oil Spill page.
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