Bjornsson v. U.S. Dominator, Inc.

OPINION

BURKE, Justice.

I. INTRODUCTION

This breach of contract action arises out of a compensation dispute between Emil Bjornsson and U.S. Dominator, Inc. (the vessel owner). Bjornsson appeals the superior court’s decision entering summary judgment in the vessel owner’s favor.

On appeal, Bjornsson argues that the superior court erred in not applying 46 U.S.C. § 10601 which requires that fishing compensation arrangements be made in writing in order to be effective. 1 We agree and reverse the superior court’s decision.

II. FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS

Bjornsson worked as a commercial fisherman aboard the…