Christopher J. McNally

The ocean is and always has been a central part of my life. I have been unable to escape it, though I have not really tried all that hard. I am always drawn back to the sea. I have studied, sailed, fished, explored, played and worked on the ocean throughout my life. I have come to respect and cherish the ocean, its inhabitants and our interactions and dependency upon the world’s oceans.

Eighty percent of the world’s population lives in close proximity to the shore, and that population places significant burdens upon the dynamic systems at the interface between land and sea. I understand the conflict that exists between natural systems and our desire to live, play and work close to the ocean. I was born overseas and traveled extensively with my family as a child and then while working as a professional mariner until discovering Newport. My wife, two boys and I have made Newport our home since 2000.

Newport, and Rhode Island in general, are special. Rhode Island leads the way in facing the challenges of living at or near the shore. Our extensive coastline, fantastic harbors, and prestigious maritime history in both commercial and recreational seagoing endeavors furthers our connection and interdependence on the ocean. Accordingly, we have extensive regulations managing almost all of our interactions between the land and the sea.

My passion and understanding of the ocean combined with my knowledge of maritime and coastal law and regulations allow me to provide sound advice and counsel for my clients and to advocate vigorously on their behalf when necessary.