Schletker Law carries forward the Schletker family tradition of work on the inland waterways. Founded by Steven Schletker, Schletker Law focuses on representation of Jones Act seamen, deckhands, engineers, mates, tow boat crew members and Longshoremen injured on the Ohio River, Lake Erie, Kanawha and other inland waterways, docks and ports. Steve's grandfather, Lt. Commander Arthur J. Schletker, was master of the Coast Guard Cutter Greenbrier and piloted excursion vessels on the Ohio River including the Belle of Louisville and the Delta Queen. Steve's father, Robert L. Schletker, piloted LST’s during WW II and worked for most of the next 45 years for towing companies on the Ohio River. Steve's brother Robert L. Schletker, Jr., is a marine engineer.

If you have been injured on the Ohio River, Lake Erie, Kanawha River or other navigable waterway in the Midwest, you will need an attorney who understands the Jones Act, Maritime law and the Longshore Act. The Jones Act, Longshore Act, and General Maritime Law are complex. It is in your best interest to retain an experienced attorney who has represented injured maritime workers.

Steven Schletker has concentrated his practice on the representation of injured deckhands, Jones Act crew members and Longshoremen since graduating from the University of Kentucky College of Law in 1983. Inquiries from Jones Act employers, tow boat companies and dock companies will not be accepted. Steven Schletker will not accept a case for an employer or insurance company. He will however, be glad to speak to an injured worker about how best to protect his or her rights.

Steven Schletker is licensed in Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia. He handles Ohio River and tributary river cases from Paducah, Kentucky to Parkersburg, West Virginia. He also represents numerous injured workers along Lake Erie ports from Toledo, Ohio to Conneaut, Ohio.

Injured workers are frequently surprised by how willing an employer is to forget an excellent and long standing work record. Most tow boat and dock companies operate under the philosophy of “what have you done for me lately.” While you would think giving the tow boat or dock company the best years of your work life would cause them to protect you if you are injured, this is frequently not the case. The defense of your claim will likely be turned over to an insurance adjustor or defense lawyer who neither knows nor cares about your excellent work record.

The first step in protecting yourself is to contact an experienced attorney who regularly practices Jones Act, General Maritime Law, river and Longshore cases. Your initial consultation with Steven Schletker is free. There are no upfront costs or fees. A retainer payment is not required. Steven Schletker receives payment when he successfully prosecutes your case.