Legal Services for Chesapeake Bay Waterfront Property Owners
Covering an area of over 200 square miles, the Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States and one of the largest in the world. Most of the rivers and tributaries in the Commonwealth flow into the Chesapeake Bay. Although it is still a rich source of fish, clams, and oysters, these fisheries have experienced great harm from the pollution created by the 17 million people who live along the Bay. Thankfully, water quality in the Bay has improved of late, and the shellfish harvest is once again on the rise.
Our team's extensive knowledge of waterfront (riparian) property rights law, maritime and admiralty law, and environmental law has helped clients all across Virginia.
Examples of Our Work on the Chesapeake Bay
Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act Compliance
Assisted a waterfront property owner who demolished a residence located within the Resource Protection Area (RPA) of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act. Penalties for violating the Act can be severe, with fines up to $5,000 for each day of violation. We assisted the owner in tailoring a design that resulted in approval for re-building without moving entirely outside the RPA.
Do you need help with Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act compliance?
Schedule Your Consultation NowOyster Lease Permit Hearings at VMRC
Oyster lease permit hearings at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC), including representing riparian property owners protesting the installation of an industrial-sized floating oyster aquaculture farm in Hungars Creek, which flows into the Bay from the Eastern Shore.
Are you dealing with oyster farming disputes near your property?
Schedule Your Consultation NowEnvironmental Enforcement Action Resolution
Helping a commercial client resolve an environmental enforcement action brought by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality after the inadvertent release of 1,700 gallons of toxic chemicals into the Bay during a construction project, in violation of the Virginia State Water Control Law.
Waterfront Property Ownership Dispute at Old Point Comfort
Provided an expert legal opinion to help resolve a waterfront property ownership dispute relating to Old Point Comfort near historic Fort Monroe.
Jones Act Defense for Commercial Fishing Fleets
Represented several commercial fishing fleet owners defending Jones Act claims for personal injuries brought by vessel crew members.
We Protect Your Waterfront Property, Maritime, and Environmental Rights
These represent just a few of the many instances in which Jim and his team have assisted clients on or near Virginia's waterways. If you have a legal issue pertaining to any Virginia waterway, we're here to help.
Explore All Virginia Waterways
We work in one of the longest and most diverse coastlines in the world — 7,213 miles. Click below to see examples of our work in other Virginia waterways.
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