In accordance with presently disclosed embodiments, systems and methods for selectively engaging, raising or lowering, and disengaging downhole equipment via a reduced friction J-latch mechanism is provided. The disclosed J-latch mechanism generally includes a J-latch receptacle including a cylinder having a slot formed therein, the slot having an open end exposed at one end of the cylinder and a truncated slot area at an opposite end of the slot from the open end. The J-latch mechanism also includes a J-latch lug member including a mounting portion with a lug disposed thereon for removably interfacing with the slot of the J-latch receptacle. The lug includes a bearing assembly to reduce friction between the slot and the lug while selectively engaging and disengaging the lug member from the receptacle. The disclosed J-latch mechanism may improve the efficiency of deployment, retrieval, and actuation of a wide range of oilfield equipment under heave conditions.
