Courts of Vice Admiralty in the Caribbean

Courts of Vice Admiralty were specialized maritime courts that operated in the Caribbean during the colonial period, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries. They handled legal matters related to maritime issues, such as piracy, trade disputes, and shipping regulations. These courts were established by British authorities to enforce laws at sea and maintain order in busy trade routes. Unlike regular courts, they focused on commercial and naval cases, often adjudicating issues involving merchants and naval interests, thus playing a crucial role in regulating maritime commerce and ensuring the safety of sea trade in the region.