Introduction

In the recent case of Kenai Ironclad Corp. v. CP Marine Services, LLC, No. 22-30311 (5th Cir. 2023), the testimony of an
Admiralty & Maritime Expert Witness played a pivotal role. This case involved a breach of contract related to the repair and conversion of an offshore supply vessel.

Background of the Case

The dispute arose when Kenai Ironclad Corporation (“Kenai”) hired CP Marine Services, LLC to repair and convert its offshore supply vessel into a salmon fishing tender for use in Alaska. Kenai alleged that CP Marine Services failed to complete the work satisfactorily and within the agreed-upon timeframe. Consequently, Kenai filed a lawsuit claiming breach of contract, seeking damages for the delay and substandard work.

Role of the Admiralty & Maritime Expert Witness

The court appointed Randall Jacques, a seasoned maritime expert, to analyze and provide testimony on the technical and contractual aspects of the case. Jacques’ extensive experience includes over 30 years in maritime operations and engineering. His role included:

• Reviewing Contractual Agreements: Jacques evaluated the contracts and agreements between Kenai and CP Marine Services to identify obligations and any deviations from the terms.
• Inspecting the Vessel: He conducted a thorough inspection of the vessel to assess the quality of the repairs and modifications.
• Evaluating Industry Standards: Jacques compared the work performed against industry standards for maritime repairs and conversions.
• Providing Expert Testimony: He presented his findings in court, offering an expert opinion on whether CP Marine Services met the contractual and industry standards.

Key Findings and Impact on the Case

Jacques’ expert analysis led to several critical findings:

• Substandard Workmanship: He identified numerous deficiencies in the repair and conversion work, including poor-quality welding and improperly installed equipment, which did not meet industry standards.
• Contractual Breaches: Jacques pointed out specific instances where CP Marine Services deviated from the contractual obligations, particularly regarding the timeline and quality of work.
• Impact on Vessel Performance: His evaluation indicated that the substandard work affected the vessel’s performance and safety, justifying Kenai’s claims for damages.

These findings were crucial in persuading the court to rule in favor of the plaintiff. Jacques’ testimony provided a clear, authoritative explanation of the contractual breaches and their implications, which helped the judge and jury understand the technical complexities and determine the appropriate liability and damages.

Conclusion

In Kenai Ironclad Corp. v. CP Marine Services, LLC, the involvement of an Admiralty & Maritime Expert Witness was essential in resolving the complex issues related to maritime repair and conversion contracts. Randall Jacques’ detailed analysis and expert testimony clarified the technical deficiencies and contractual breaches, leading to a favorable outcome for Kenai. This case underscores the importance of expert witnesses in legal proceedings involving maritime operations and contract disputes.