Board Certified Admiralty & Maritime Lawyer in Florida

Why Board Certification is the Gold Standard for Your Maritime Claim

Expertise is not a marketing term; it is a legal distinction. In the State of Florida, an attorney cannot call themselves a “specialist” or an “expert” unless they have achieved the highest level of evaluation by The Florida Bar: Board Certification. At Brais Law Firm, founding partner Keith Brais has been Board Certified in Admiralty & Maritime Law since 1996, a distinction held by only a fraction of 1% of Florida attorneys.

What is a Board Certified Maritime Specialist?

Board certification is the Florida Bar’s highest evaluation of an attorney’s competency and experience. To become a Board Certified Specialist (B.C.S.) in Admiralty & Maritime Law, an attorney must:

Pass a Rigorous Examination: A comprehensive test of knowledge regarding the Jones Act, Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), and General Maritime Law.
Undergo Peer Review: Evaluation by fellow lawyers and judges who attest to the attorney’s ethics, professionalism, and superior skill.
Demonstrate Substantial Involvement: Proof of extensive trial experience and a career dedicated specifically to maritime litigation.
Commit to Ongoing Education: Meeting strict continuing legal education requirements to stay at the forefront of maritime law.

Keith Brais didn’t just meet these standards; he helped set them. Having passed the very first Florida Bar certification exam in this field, he has maintained this elite status for over 25 years.

The “Brais Advantage”: A Marine Engineer’s Perspective

What sets Brais Law Firm apart from other board-certified firms is Keith Brais’ background prior to the law. Before becoming a trial attorney, Keith:

Graduated from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy with a B.S. in Marine Engineering.
Held three U.S. Coast Guard Licenses (3rd Engineer Unlimited H.P. Steam and Motor and 2nd Engineer Unlimited H.P. Motor)
Worked offshore seven years on every type of drilling platform – Jack-up, Semi-submersible and Drill Ships, along with commercial blue water vessels.

Why this matters for your case: Most lawyers have to hire experts to explain how a ship’s engine works or why a deck was unsafe. Keith Brais has lived it. He speaks the language of the crew, understands the mechanics of the vessel, and can identify negligence that other “maritime lawyers” miss.

Why Your Choice of Attorney Matters

Maritime law is governed by unique federal statutes and centuries-old international treaties. A general personal injury lawyer may not understand the nuances of:

Maintenance and Cure benefits for injured seamen.
The Limitation of Liability Act, which shipowners use to avoid paying claims.
Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) complexities.

By hiring a Board Certified Admiralty & Maritime Specialist, you are ensuring that your legal representation has been vetted by the Florida Supreme Court for excellence in this specific, highly technical field.

See Why So Many People Trust Brais Law Firm

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 26 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Cpt Joe 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When I had a career ending accident, I had so many concerns about my future and the future of my family. After the first call with Keith I knew immediately he was the guy I was looking for. I could not have asked for a better attorney experience. Thank you Mr.Bais.
  
 
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   TheCap 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Could not have asked for a better attorney. I knew from our first consultation that Keith was who I was looking for.
  
 
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   Dionny Baez Oficial 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best Maritime Accident Lawyer ever! They are like family to us.
  
 
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   david marchi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After a serious boating accident in 2015 that left me with a broken back and severe wrist injuries, my case stalled for years despite working with multiple law firms. At the recommendation of my personal counsel, I consulted with Keith Brais. In just one hour, he provided more clarity and direction than I’d had in years. I learned that maritime injury cases follow a completely different set of laws, and Keith’s board certification in Admiralty and Maritime Law made all the difference. After retaining his firm in 2021, my case moved quickly and strategically despite significant complexity, expert coordination, and court delays. Keith and his team were professional, transparent, and supportive throughout a very stressful process. They ultimately recovered the full amount of the insurance policy, resolving a case ten years in the making. I highly recommend Keith Brais and his firm.
  
 
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   Laurie Jewell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Keith Brais and his team worked tirelessly to bring my case to a successful, fair, conclusion. From our initial contact every member of the team was professional, courteous, and knowledgeable. They partnered with industry experts and had a network of individuals who, like the Brais team, gave my case the attention to detail necessary to achieve the best outcome possible. I am so glad I took the time to research experienced maritime attorneys before putting my trust in anyone. I would absolutely choose this team again if I needed these services.

Owner's reply
Hi Laurie, thank you for your kind words and trusting us to help.  It was our absolute pleasure.
  
 
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   cindy&ed Ferguson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was seriously injured on zipline excursion while on an 8 day cruise. Keith and Michelle along with his team immediately went to work on my behalf. They kept me updated and answered every question or concern I had. They are honest and hardworking lawyers that care for you on a personal level instead of just handling you as a “case. Special thanks to Karla who went above for me. She spent countless hours talking with my medical providers to lower the amounts owed. Because of her efforts my settlement was more than we imagined. You definitely can’t go wrong having this law firm fighting for you & being on your side!! 5 Stars all the way for everyone at Brais Law Firm !

Owner's reply
Hi Cindy & Ed, it was our pleasure to be of service.
  
 
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   mary slavin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent firm with professional and competent personnel. They kept me updated on my case and  aware of the entire process. Would highly recommend them!

Owner's reply
Hi Mary, thank you for your kind words. It was our pleasure to help. Best Regards, Keith S. Brais, Esq.
  
 
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   Pete Petrucci 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a stroke on a cruise ship and received very little medical attention  onboard. After Rehab I called 4 Maritime law firms but they all refused the case saying it was a losing case. Called Brais Law and Keith was very Honest and said they would take the case but it would be a tough case to win. The Brais team Keith, Michelle, Karla, Yamiee all work very hard and came to a winning settlement for me. This is a Dedicated and VERY professional Team, I would recommend Brais Law to anyone.

Owner's reply
Hi Peter, it was our pleasure to be of service. Hope you are doing well. Best, Keith
  
 
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   Tom McNutt 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I slipped and fell at the end of the gangway leaving a cruise ship, which eventually resulted in a craniotomy and rotator cuff reconstruction....and caused me to be out of commission for some time. Keith, Michelle, Karla, Yaimee....everyone I had contact with at the firm was a first class professional and did their best to help me receive compensation. I couldn't ask more of a law firm.

Owner's reply
Hi Tom, hope you are doing well. Greatly appreciate your kind words. It was our pleasure. Best, Keith
  
 
  
  
 
 
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Recognized Authority in Maritime Litigation

Our firm’s expertise is recognized nationally by the most prestigious legal organizations:

AV Preeminent Rated (Martindale-Hubbell) – The highest level of professional excellence.
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum – Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members.
Best Lawyers in America – Consistently recognized for Admiralty and Maritime Law.
Hundreds of Millions of Recovered for passengers, divers, guests on yachts, and crew members due to negligence or victims of crimes, i.e., sexual assaults/ rapes.

FAQ’s about Board Certification

Q: Does it cost more to hire a Board Certified lawyer?
No. At Brais Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis. You get the benefit of a Board Certified Specialist without any upfront costs.

Q: How many lawyers are Board Certified in Maritime Law?
Very few. Out of over 100,000 lawyers in Florida, only a small group specializes in Admiralty and Maritime law to this degree.

Q: Can I verify an attorney’s certification?
Yes. We encourage you to visit the Florida Bar’s website to verify Keith Brais’s standing as a Board Certified Specialist.

Protect Your Rights with a Proven Expert

If you or a loved one has been injured at sea, do not settle for a general practitioner. Put the power of a Board Certified Specialist and a former Marine Engineer on your side. Contact us today! Phone Numbers: (305) 416-2901 or (800) 499-0551.