San Diego Maritime & Yacht Law – Cross-Border Transactions, Charter Law & Litigation

Maritime legal counsel for luxury yacht owners, brokers, and commercial operators across San Diego Bay and the international corridor.

Trusted Legal Guidance for the Port of San Diego

As one of the busiest and most internationally active ports on the West Coast, San Diego is home to a dynamic yachting community — including cross-border charters, foreign-flagged vessels, USCG scrutiny, and high-value marine assets. Whether you're a yacht owner, charter business, or maritime broker, you need legal representation that understands both the harbor and the courtroom.

I’m Christopher M. Brainard, Esq. — a maritime attorney and licensed yacht broker with over 27 years of experience handling transactions, charter structuring, trust & LLC ownership, and vessel litigation throughout California’s coastal regions.  I am also a seasoned complex litigation expert regarding maritime liens and all manner of yacht brokerage disputes.

San Diego Maritime & Yacht Services

• ✔ Vessel Purchase & Sale Agreements
• ✔ Cross-Border Transaction Structuring (U.S./Mexico)
• ✔ Charter Contracts (Bareboat, Time, Hybrid)
• ✔ USCG Documentation & Escrow Compliance
• ✔ LLC & Living Trust Ownership Structuring
• ✔ Maritime Liens, Title Disputes & Arrest Defense
• ✔ Brokerage Commission Disputes & Co-Ownership Litigation
• ✔ Estate Planning for Yacht & Aircraft Owners

Why Yacht Owners and Professionals Trust Me

• Port-Proven Experience: I represent clients in transactions and litigation involving vessels docked from Shelter Island to Coronado.
• International Reach: I understand the legal and tax complexities of cross-border yacht activity, including registry and residency issues.
• Broker + Attorney: I offer both the deal expertise of a broker and the legal precision of a practicing litigator.
• High Net Worth Asset Planning: I routinely integrate yachts, aircraft, and real estate into estate plans and entity structures.

Let’s Keep Your Vessel, and Your Rights, Secure

Whether you're acquiring a vessel, preparing to charter, entering escrow, or dealing with legal conflict, I ensure your interests are protected — with discretion and precision.

📞 Call or Text: (310) 266–4115
🌐 Website: www.LawBrainard.com
📝 Start Online: Complete Our Maritime Intake Form

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“Chris helped us resolve a cross-border charter issue and restructure our fleet into a trust-held LLC. He’s the real deal.”
— Charter Operator, San Diego

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*This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. An attorney-client relationship is only formed through a signed agreement.*