Any person may file a formal complaint to allege violations of specific sections of the Shipping Act found at 46 USC Chapter 411. The complaint must be sworn and verified, and if seeking reparations, be filed within three years of the claimed violation. Formal complaints are generally heard by an Administrative Law Judge and are reviewed by the Commission.
Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Complaint Attorney
Formal vs. Small Claims Proceedings
FORMAL PROCEEDINGS
SMALL CLAIMS PROCEEDINGS
For claims of $50,000 or less, an informal complaint may be filed. The complaint will be handled by a settlement officer for resolution using informal procedures (46 CFR Part 205 Subpart S).
Links to information on FMC’s alternate dispute resolution office, and information on filing a complaint here.