Admiralty
A Dictionary of Law · Henry Campbell Black · 1891
A Dictionary of Law
A court exercising jurisdiction over maritime causes, both civil and criminal, and marine affairs, commerce and navigation, controversies arising out of acts done upon or relating to the sea, and over questions of prize. Also, the system of jurisprudence relating to and growing out of the jurisdiction and practice of the admiralty courts.
In English law
The executive departthe lord high admiral, but in practice the functions of the great office are discharged by several commissioners, of whom one is the chief, and iscalled the “First Lord.” He is assisted by other lords and by various secretaries. Also, the court of the admiral. The building where the lords of the admiralty transact business.
In American law
A tribunal exercising jurisdiction over all maritime contracts, torts, injuries, or offenses.
2 Pars. Mar. Law, 508.