Forum Selection Clauses in Maritime Bills of Lading

Courts face difficult issues in determining the validity of maritime forum selection clauses. This Note assesses the validity of such clauses in bills of lading used in maritime shipping. It considers four issues. First, this Note will examine the three existing conventions on international maritime law. Second, it will discuss the varying U.S. court interpretations of the U.S. Carriage of Goods by Sea Act. Third, it sets forth the positions of other states on such clauses. Finally, this Note posits solutions and compromises for the existing conflicts of law