A wharfinger is a person who owns or manages a wharf, which is a structure where ships can dock to load and unload cargo. This term is considered archaic and is used primarily in legal contexts to denote the keeper or proprietor of such facilities. The responsibilities of a wharfinger include receiving goods, forwarding them to their intended recipients, and ensuring the maintenance of the wharf itself.
The term wharfinger is relevant in maritime law and property law. It pertains to the rights and obligations related to the operation of wharves, including the handling of goods and passengers. Legal documents, such as contracts for the use of wharf facilities, may involve wharfingers and can often be managed through templates available on platforms like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A wharfinger in California operates a facility where shipping companies can dock their vessels to unload cargo. They are responsible for ensuring that the wharf is safe and accessible for both ships and cargo handlers.
Example 2: A wharfinger may need to condemn a small section of land adjacent to their wharf to expand their operations, following the legal guidelines set forth in local statutes. (hypothetical example)
In California, the Public Utilities Code § 619 grants wharfingers the right to condemn property necessary for the construction and maintenance of wharf facilities. This law outlines the legal framework governing the operations of wharfingers in the state.
| State | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| California | Wharfingers have specific rights under Cal Pub Util Code § 619. |
| Florida | Regulations may differ regarding the licensing and operation of wharves. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Dockmaster | A person responsible for managing the operations of a dock. | A dockmaster focuses on operational management, while a wharfinger owns or manages the wharf itself. |
| Harbormaster | An official responsible for the safety and regulation of a harbor. | A harbormaster oversees a broader area, including multiple wharves and docks, while a wharfinger specifically manages one wharf. |
If you are involved with a wharf or need to understand your rights and responsibilities as a wharfinger, consider consulting legal resources or templates available on US Legal Forms. If your situation is complex or involves legal disputes, seeking professional legal advice is recommended.
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A wharfinger manages the operations of a wharf, including receiving and delivering goods.