For licensed mariners, few situations are more stressful than receiving notice of a Suspension and Revocation (S&R) action from the U.S. Coast Guard. Your license is not just a credential—it represents your livelihood, reputation, and years of experience on the water. When the Coast Guard believes a mariner’s conduct or performance may threaten safety, it can initiate formal administrative proceedings that put everything at risk.

At Biggs & Gunst P.C., our Ann Arbor admiralty attorneys understand what is at stake. With leadership that includes a founding partner who has held a Coast Guard captain’s license for over 15 years, our firm brings real maritime insight to defending licensed mariners facing S&R actions in Michigan and across the Great Lakes region.

What Is a Coast Guard S&R Action?

A Suspension and Revocation action is an administrative enforcement process used by the U.S. Coast Guard to address alleged misconduct, negligence, or incompetence by licensed mariners. These proceedings can result in penalties ranging from a temporary suspension to permanent revocation of a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).

S&R cases are not criminal trials, but the consequences can be just as serious. That’s why having experienced legal guidance early in the process is critical.

Negligence or Misconduct

One of the most common reasons the Coast Guard initiates an S&R action is alleged negligence or misconduct. This may include actions that the Coast Guard believes endangered the vessel, crew, passengers, or environment. Even a single incident—such as an operational mistake or failure to follow procedures—can trigger scrutiny.

Biggs & Gunst P.C. helps mariners respond strategically to these allegations, ensuring their side of the story is clearly presented and supported.

Drug or Alcohol Allegations

Accusations involving drug or alcohol use are taken extremely seriously by the Coast Guard. Positive test results, refusal to test, or alleged impairment while on duty frequently lead to S&R proceedings.

These cases often involve technical testing standards and procedural requirements. Our Ann Arbor maritime attorneys carefully review how evidence was obtained and whether Coast Guard protocols were properly followed.

Incompetence or Lack of Skill

The Coast Guard may initiate an S&R action if it believes a mariner lacks the necessary skill or judgment to safely perform their duties. This can stem from navigation errors, poor decision-making, or incidents suggesting an inability to meet professional standards.

Logbook, Documentation, and Regulatory Violations

Failure to maintain accurate logbooks, improper documentation, or violations of Coast Guard regulations are another frequent basis for S&R actions. While these issues may seem administrative, they can still lead to severe consequences for licensed mariners.

Our firm assists mariners in addressing these allegations and protecting their credentials from unnecessary penalties.

Criminal Conduct or Off-Duty Incidents

In some cases, criminal charges—whether maritime-related or not—can prompt the Coast Guard to take action against a mariner’s license. Even off-duty conduct may be scrutinized if it raises concerns about fitness or judgment.

Biggs & Gunst P.C. helps mariners understand how outside legal matters can impact their credentials and how to respond appropriately.

Why Early Legal Defense Matters

Once an S&R investigation begins, everything you say or submit can affect the outcome. Early involvement by a knowledgeable maritime law firm can help protect your rights, your license, and your future career opportunities.

Biggs & Gunst P.C. stands by licensed mariners at every stage of the S&R process—from initial investigation through hearings and appeals.

Speak With an Ann Arbor Maritime License Defense Attorney

If you are facing a Coast Guard Suspension and Revocation action, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Protecting your maritime license requires legal guidance grounded in real maritime experience.

Call Biggs & Gunst P.C. today at 734-263-2320 to discuss your situation and learn how we can help defend your license, livelihood, and reputation.