Understanding the Vessel Subject to the Jurisdiction of the United States
Definition & Meaning
A vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States refers to various types of watercraft that fall under U.S. law. This includes:
- A vessel without a nationality.
- A vessel treated as a vessel without nationality under international agreements.
- A vessel registered in a foreign country that has allowed U.S. law enforcement.
- A vessel located in U.S. customs waters.
- A vessel in a foreign nation's territorial waters with that nation's consent for U.S. law enforcement.
- A vessel in the contiguous zone of the U.S. that is either entering, has departed, or is hovering.
Legal Use & context
This term is primarily used in maritime law, particularly in cases involving drug enforcement and security. Legal professionals may encounter this term in criminal law when discussing jurisdiction over drug trafficking or other illegal activities on the high seas. Users can find relevant forms and templates on US Legal Forms to assist in legal matters related to vessels and jurisdiction.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A fishing boat registered in a foreign country operates in U.S. waters after receiving permission from U.S. authorities, making it subject to U.S. laws.
Example 2: A vessel without nationality is intercepted in the high seas by U.S. Coast Guard, allowing them to enforce U.S. law (hypothetical example).