Gregory Lawrence Ernst

Gregory Lawrence Ernst is Of Counsel at The Bagert Law Firm in New Orleans, where his practice centers on admiralty and maritime law. Ernst handles Jones Act matters, LHWCA Section 905(b) claims, maintenance and cure issues, vessel collisions, limitation of liability, maritime contracts, and vessel arrest and attachment. His broader litigation background also includes insurance defense, general liability, premises liability, construction, commercial, and employment disputes.

Ernst graduated from Harvard College in 1987 and earned his J.D. from Tulane Law School in 1992. Before beginning his maritime practice, he spent two years with the Louisiana Mental Health Advocacy Service, where he developed courtroom experience. His legal education and early public-interest work gave him a foundation for analyzing complex disputes, presenting contested issues, and advising clients on matters that often combine federal maritime law with Louisiana law.

His professional experience extends beyond private practice. Ernst served a temporary term in the Louisiana House of Representatives in 2009 and later served two terms on the Non-Flood Protection Asset Management Authority, including a period as chairman. He has also been a guest lecturer in Tulane Law School’s Legislative and Administrative Advocacy course, adding public-law and governmental experience to a practice grounded in litigation and maritime matters.

Gregory Lawrence Ernst is a member of the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel and has received an AV Preeminent peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell. He has also been named a Top Lawyer in Admiralty and Maritime Law by New Orleans Magazine. Ernst brings together maritime knowledge, courtroom experience, and public service, helping clients address vessel, insurance, commercial, and liability disputes with practical attention to the governing legal framework.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, The Bagert Law Firm
• Member, Louisiana State Bar Association
• Temporary Representative, Louisiana House of Representatives (2009)
• Member and Chairman November – August, Non-Flood Protection Asset Management Authority (2014)
• Member, Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel

Licensed State

• Louisiana

Awards & Badges