§ 495 Vessel Complaint Service Rules

Harbors and Navigation Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law explains how to start a lawsuit against a ship by naming it and delivering the legal papers to the right people.

Key Takeaways

•The complaint must name the vessel.
•The complaint must be sworn under oath by the plaintiff or their representative.
•Legal papers must be served to the owner if found, otherwise to the master, mate, or person in charge.

Example

A person wants to sue a fishing boat after a crash caused by the boat's crew.

The lawsuit must name the boat, and the papers must be handed to the boat's owner if they can be found; if not, they can be given to the captain, mate, or whoever is in charge of the vessel.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 495 Vessel Complaint Service Rules

In any action brought pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, the complaint shall designate the vessel by name, and shall be verified by the oath of the plaintiff, or someone on his behalf. The summons and copy of the complaint shall be served on the owners if they can be found; otherwise, they may be served on the master, mate, or person having charge of the vessel. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1341.)

Last verified: January 11, 2026

Key Terms

complaint verified by the oath summons master, mate, or person having charge of the vessel

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Harbors and Navigation Code. Section 495.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References