Federal law (46 USCA 11108) exempts seamen’s wages from garnishment, and in the process thereof, immunizes the employer from any liability for refusing to honor any such garnishment. This exemption does not apply however to any garnishment or attachment arising out of divorce proceedings, such as alimony, or spouse or child support.
This exemption does not say a seaman is not responsible for his debts, only that his wages cannot be garnished to pay debts.
If your wages are garnished, you should immediately make your employer aware of this exemption, and if that fails, contact the maritime lawyers at O’Bryan Baun Karamanian..
