Merchant Mariner Credentials: Obtain Or Renew The Credential You Need To Make A Living
To a seaman, their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) is their livelihood; without it, they cannot work. Depending on the type of vessel, most mariners on American ships must possess a valid MMC. The denial or suspension and revocation of an MMC can severely impact a mariner’s ability to work. As licensed U.S. merchant marine officers, the attorneys of Biggs & Gunst P.C. Attorneys At Law know just how important a seaman’s MMC is, and we will work hard on your behalf to protect your license.
Merchant Mariner Credential Application And Appeal Consultations
Merchant Mariner Credentials are regulated under the United States Code of Federal Regulations – specifically, under Title 46 CFR Subchapter B, Part 10. To obtain an MMC and join the U.S. Coast Guard, applicants must pass a physical and a drug test, and also provide a copy of their driving record as well as a criminal record if one exists. These records are required in order to ensure that the applicant is competent to serve, and does not pose a threat to national security.
Most applicants advance beyond this stage of the application process, provided that the required records do not reveal any outstanding issues. However, if you did not pass the U.S. Coast Guard physical requirements, have a history of drug use or have a questionable criminal or driving history, you still may qualify for an MMC.
Merchant Mariner Credential Suspension And Revocations
MMC suspension and revocation matters, commonly known as S&R proceedings, occur when the U.S. Coast Guard has decided to initiate an action to either suspend or revoke a mariner’s MMC. There are several reasons that the U.S. Coast Guard may initiate S&R proceedings against a mariner. These include criminal action, misconduct or, more commonly, a failed drug test or a driving under the influence conviction.
While S&R proceedings are administrative in nature, their cost and impact on a mariner’s life can be just as devastating as criminal proceedings. If you are served with an S&R complaint, it is important that you immediately hire a maritime attorney who is experienced with S&R proceedings. Failure to answer the S&R complaint in a timely fashion could result in a default decision and a waiver of your right to defend your license. Hiring an experienced maritime attorney could mean the difference between a temporary suspension of your MMC or a full revocation of the credential.
The experienced maritime attorneys of Biggs & Gunst P.C. Attorneys At Law will be able to review the U.S. Coast Guard’s evidence and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If we fail to reach a fair settlement with the U.S. Coast Guard, our attorneys have experience representing mariner’s interests in S&R hearings and will work hard to fight for your rights.
Need Help With Your MMC? Call Us.
If you are concerned about obtaining or renewing your MMC, contact the maritime attorneys of Biggs & Gunst P.C. Attorneys At Law today. As licensed mariners themselves, our attorneys are familiar with the process of obtaining your MMC as well as the various appeals processes, should your application or renewal be denied. While we cannot guarantee that the U.S. Coast Guard will approve your MMC application or renewal, we can guarantee that we will work hard to present you in the best possible light to the U.S. Coast Guard and increase the chances that your MMC application or renewal will be approved.
To schedule a free initial consultation, call 734-720-4445 or reach us via email. From our office in Ann Arbor, we represent clients throughout Michigan.