Document reviews, site visits to offshore platforms, and interviews with industry representatives and governmental officials revealed that ample legal authority exists for action by local, State, or Federal officials to resolve offshore crisis situations. The FBI and the United States Coast Guard are the Federal agencies responsible for the initial response to maritime terrorist incidents within the coastal waters of the United States. Memoranda of understanding between these agencies delineate their respective responsibilities. Military force can also be used if circumstances justify it. State, local, and industry officials should receive briefings on the desirability of using civilian law enforcement resources to deal with maritime terrorist incidents. Footnotes, 15 references, and list of people interviewed.