The Ira M. Hedges, 218 U.S. 264 (1910)

The Ira M. Hedges

No. 18

Argued October 27, 1910
Decided November 7, 1910
218 U.S. 264

APPEAL FROM THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE UNITED STATES

FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK

Syllabus

Where the decree of the lower court is founded on denial of jurisdiction of the Admiralty Court, this Court has jurisdiction of the appeal. The right to contribution is not a mere incident of a form of procedure, but it belongs to the substantive law of the admiralty.

The right to contribution in the admiralty cannot be taken away because the claim is asserted against one of those causing the damage at common law and put into judgment.

Where two vessels cause an injury to a third, the fact that the injured party obtains judgment against the owners of one of the vessels in fault does not deprive the admiralty of jurisdiction of a suit brought by those against whom the judgment is entered against the other vessel to compel contribution.

Quaere as to what, if anything, such judgment conclusively establishes.

The facts, which involve the jurisdiction of the Admiralty Court, are stated in the opinion.