Jeffery L. Ment
Managing Partner
The industry is vibrant, dynamic, and offers its customers new and exciting experiences. It is also highly-competitive, presenting a wide-array of legal obstacles in the form of regulation, liability, contractual obligations, and other multifaceted challenges.
Our attorneys have a wide-ranging background in virtually every aspect of the travel industry. The Ment Law Group, PC is at the forefront to deliver all-inclusive legal services to our clients, including tour operators, travel agents, airlines, cruise companies, hotels, travel associations, rental companies, rail and coach operators, and event organizers. Call our travel industry lawyers today at 866-MENT-LAW or submit a request online for information about how we can help you.
Although people seek companies in the tourism industry to provide them with leisure experiences, the businesses in this field often face difficult legal situations. You must maintain a favorable disposition and express that the customer is always right. However, in reality, problems occur that require a quick response and efficient defense.
The Ment Law Group, PC has helped clients that are building a tourism enterprise from the ground up as well as established companies seeking corporate legal assistance. We can help you develop operational policies and legal documents, submit compliance reports, and guide you through any emergent situation that might occur.
Understanding the new GDPR Presentation
Tour Guides and Liability Issues Presentation
Legal issues are common in the tourism industry. Whether you need someone to guide your ongoing corporate strategy or if you have immediate questions that need answers, we can help. Some of the most common question that we encounter include:
There are many state, federal, and international laws that address the tourism industry. In many situations, those regulations protect consumers instead of the businesses involved in providing tourist services. Many rules are made by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT); however, every country has an agency that addresses tourism. If you are in a specialized field, such as ecotourism, volunteer tourism, or student travel, you may have to comply with laws made by other government agencies as well.
Yes, there are several states that require registration if you plan to sell to residents of those states. It does not matter if the tour is going to one of the states that require registration – the test is whether the guest is from one of those states.
A number of legal issues face tour operators. The number one area of concern is how the vendors and suppliers are selected. In other words, the vetting or due diligence will become the main issue in litigation arising out of an injury to a guest.
As a business in the tourism industry, you need to have releases and waivers that cover your operation in case of emergency situations. In general, releases and waivers that are tailored to the specific activity and risk are enforceable. There are many exceptions, so always remember to check local laws for any state-specific language that may be needed. Also, particular attention must be paid to tours that are more adventuresome – certain warnings and language should be in the document.
All tour operators should have insurance coverage based on the type of worst-case scenario claim that could happen. You should consider the following:
Our travel attorneys have extensive experience in the tourism industry. Attorney Jeffrey Ment is intimately familiar with travel law. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration-marketing. In addition, he has worked in the travel industry in various capacities, including as a travel agent, a tour guide, and in the sales and marketing departments for two airlines. Attorneys Jessica Lysy and Stephanie Hankins have a background in travel working as travel advisors. With their hands-on experience, our lawyers understand your focus and can help you achieve your goals.
Companies in the travel industry must adhere to an array of regulations established in federal, state, and international laws. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) imposes regulations relating to advertising and other components of travel. Seller of travel laws address those who offer travel services, and organizations such as the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) handle transactions involving specific industries within the field of tourism. When dealing with these agencies, it’s best to seek legal assistance from a travel lawyer who understands common regulation and compliance issues and who has worked with these regulators.
The travel industry is built on contracts, from agreements with vendors to guest terms and conditions. Nearly everyone involved in travel encounters a contract at some point in the chain of service. Similarly, policies are embedded in all aspects of the field. Contracts and policies establish provision of service as well liability for incidents. When developing your documents, you should consult with a legal advisor who is familiar with travel and can guide you to form effective instruments.
Global distribution systems (GDS) are essential platforms for selling travel products and services, but navigating GDS contracts can be complex. The Ment Law Group, PC’s travel industry attorneys can ensure you understand the terms, fees, and obligations associated with your GDS contract, protecting your business interests and ensuring the terms meet your business needs and budget.
Technology is a driving force in the travel industry. The Ment Law Group, PC can help you navigate the legal complexities of new technology contracts, counseling you on terms regarding software licenses, data security, intellectual property rights, and more.
Group travel arrangements often involve intricate contracts. Our team will work closely with you to draft, review, or negotiate group contracts, protecting your interests and keeping all parties on the same page.
In the travel industry, you cannot control all variables. Sometimes an emergency situation occurs. However, you can be prepared with proper risk assessment and exigency training. The Ment Law Group, PC can help you develop a crisis management plan and policies that address various situations that your employees may face. We can also help you effectively handle a situation after it arises. It’s important to act quickly and positively represent your organization in a crisis situation. We offer around the clock support for our clients.
Disagreements involving services, contracts, employment, customers, and more are common in the business world. Effective dispute resolution requires skilled legal assistance to negotiate, bargain, and achieve agreements that benefit everyone involved. We routinely represent travel companies in litigation and arbitration proceedings relating to claims of serious injury and death that have occurred around the world, including Africa, Antarctica, Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the United States. We can help you avoid liability and maintain a positive reputation as you resolve disagreements.
Travel is one of the world’s fastest growing industries, with more than 6 million jobs in the United States as of 2016. Employment issues arise frequently, often involving complex labor policies, government regulations, and international laws. With personal experience working in several different tourism fields, our travel attorneys can help you manage any human resource challenge that arises.
Travel agencies and tour operators are often subject to evaluations by regulatory bodies and accreditation organizations. Our experienced team can advise you on the evaluation process, maintain compliance with applicable standards, and advocate for your business during the evaluation.
In the constantly evolving travel industry, mergers and acquisitions can be a strategic way for your business to grow. The Ment Law Group, PC will provide comprehensive legal guidance throughout the M&A process, from due diligence and negotiation to closing, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction.
Seller of Travel laws vary by state and can be complex. Our travel law attorneys can advise you on your obligations as a seller of travel, including financial requirements, consumer protection regulations, and dispute resolution procedures.