The Maritime Attorneys at Lambert Zainey Smith and Soso

Lambert Zainey Smith and Soso has represented injured maritime workers across the Gulf Coast for nearly 50 years. Our attorneys have recovered over $1 billion for seamen, longshoremen, offshore platform workers, and their families, including Jones Act claims, LHWCA cases, OCSLA platform injuries, unseaworthiness claims, and wrongful death cases under DOHSA.
Maritime injury law is a federal specialty. The Jones Act, the LHWCA, and OCSLA are different from state workers’ compensation and require attorneys who practice this area every day. Our team has spent decades building the case knowledge, industry contacts, and courtroom experience that complex maritime cases demand.
Below are the attorneys who lead Lambert Zainey’s maritime practice. Each brings deep knowledge of Gulf Coast maritime law and a direct commitment to the workers we represent.
Our Maritime Law Team

HUGH P. “SKIP” LAMBERT
Partner
As a founding partner, Hugh Lambert brings decades of courtroom experience to the most complex maritime injury cases. He is a leader in handling high-stakes litigation involving offshore accidents, vessel collisions, and difficult Jones Act matters, using his deep knowledge of the law and the maritime industry to win significant results for his clients.

Jacki Smith
Partner
Jacki Smith dedicates a major part of her practice to fighting for injured maritime workers and their families. With extensive experience in Jones Act claims, LHWCA benefits, and accidents on offshore platforms and vessels, she combines meticulous preparation with tough, determined advocacy to protect her clients’ rights and futures.

J. CHRISTOPHER
ZAINEY, JR.
Partner
Jay Zainey Jr. represents individuals in challenging maritime and admiralty cases. He is skilled in handling Jones Act claims for injured seamen, cases arising from offshore accidents governed by OCSLA, and other maritime personal injury matters, always focusing on securing the best possible outcome for his clients through dedicated and tireless work.
Dedicated Advocacy for Injured Maritime Workers
Our maritime lawyers work as a team, combining their skills and resources to handle the unique challenges of maritime law. We have a deep understanding of cases involving:
We are committed to thoroughly investigating every case, explaining your rights clearly, and fighting aggressively to get you the maximum compensation available.
Over $1 Billion Recovered for Maritime Accident Victims

The liftboat Seacor Power capsized in the Gulf of Mexico during a storm on April 13, 2021, killing 13 of the 19 maritime workers on board. Hugh “Skip” Lambert was appointed co-lead liaison counsel and helped recover millions of dollars in damages for survivors and the families of the deceased.

Two commercial fishermen were run over by a tugboat and its tow in the middle of the night while anchored in the Gulf of Mexico. Lambert Zainey proved the tugboat crossed the fishing vessel’s location using AIS tracking data, and that the captain failed to stop, render aid, or contact the Coast Guard.
NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ATTORNEYS
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