§ 30907. Procedure for hearing and determination

• (a) A civil action under this chapter shall proceed and be heard and determined according to the principles of law and the rules of practice applicable in like cases between private parties.
• (b)
  • (1) The action may proceed according to the principles of an action in rem if—
    • (A) the plaintiff elects in the complaint; and
    • (B) it appears that an action in rem could have been maintained had the vessel or cargo been privately owned and possessed.
  • (2) An election under paragraph (1) does not prevent the plaintiff from seeking relief in personam in the same action.