17 October

Sticky

Top 3 Advantages of Choosing Arbitration Over Litigation

When faced with a legal dispute, many people immediately think of going to court. However, for many types of cases—especially business disputes, employment issues, and contract disagreements—arbitration can be a faster, more efficient, and cost-effective alternative to traditional litigation. Let’s explore the top three advantages of choosing arbitration over going to court. 1. Faster Resolution One of the primary advantages of arbitration...

05 October

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things to Avoid When Facing Labor Disputes in Costa Rica

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Legal Advice

Firing employees without cause: Terminating an employee without just cause can lead to costly legal battles and severance pay. Always document performance issues and follow proper procedures. Not providing severance pay: Costa Rican law mandates that employees who are dismissed are entitled to severance pay based on the length of employment. Failure to comply can lead to lawsuits. Ignoring...

04 October

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things That Can Complicate Residency Applications in Costa Rica

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Immigration, Legal Advice

Incomplete documentation: Failing to submit all required documents, such as proof of income or a background check, can delay or reject your application. Criminal record: A criminal record, even for minor offenses, can prevent you from obtaining residency in Costa Rica. Insufficient financial resources: Residency applications often require proof of financial stability. If you cannot demonstrate sufficient income or...

03 October

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things to Know About Protecting Your Intellectual Property in Costa Rica

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Legal Advice

Register your trademarks: If you plan to operate a business in Costa Rica, register your trademarks with the Costa Rican Intellectual Property Registry to protect your brand. Patents and copyrights: Inventions and creative works can be protected through patents and copyrights. Ensure you file applications early to avoid infringement. Know enforcement options: In the event of intellectual property theft,...

02 October

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things Every Foreign Investor Should Understand About Tax Law in Costa Rica

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Corporate Law, Legal Advice

Corporate tax rates: Costa Rica taxes corporate income at rates that vary depending on the size and type of business. Ensure you understand which category your business falls into. VAT and sales taxes: Costa Rica has a 13% value-added tax (VAT) that applies to most goods and services. Certain sectors like tourism may have special tax rates or exemptions. ...

01 October

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things to Avoid in Contracts with Independent Contractors

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Legal Advice

Not defining the scope of work clearly: Vague terms in contracts can lead to disputes about responsibilities. Always include a detailed scope of work to avoid misunderstandings. Failing to outline payment terms: Payment schedules, amounts, and conditions should be clearly laid out to avoid disagreements over compensation. Lack of confidentiality clauses: Independent contractors often handle sensitive information. Always include...

30 September

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things to Know About Costa Rican Immigration Law

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Immigration, Legal Advice

Residency requirements: Costa Rica offers several residency options such as pensionado (retiree) and rentista(fixed income). Each has specific requirements, such as proof of income or financial stability. Visa renewals: Tourists can stay in Costa Rica for up to 90 days on a tourist visa, but extensions or renewals must be applied for in a timely manner to avoid overstaying. ...

29 September

0 Comments

Sticky

What 5 Things Should You Avoid to Stay Decent and Out of Legal Trouble in Costa Rica, Especially with Minors and Women?

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Legal Advice

Inappropriate behavior with minors: Any inappropriate or suggestive behavior with minors, including online, can lead to serious legal consequences, including imprisonment. Disrespecting women’s rights: Harassment, abuse, or any form of disrespect toward women is taken very seriously under Costa Rican law and can result in legal penalties. Domestic violence: Costa Rica has strict laws protecting victims of domestic violence....

28 September

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things You Should Never Do When Facing Criminal Charges in Costa Rica

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Criminal Justice, Legal Advice

Resist arrest: Resisting arrest will only escalate the situation and may lead to additional charges. Remain calm and comply with law enforcement officers. Speak without a lawyer: Do not make any statements or answer questions until you have a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Flee the country: Attempting to flee can lead...

27 September

0 Comments

Sticky

5 Things to Know About Divorce and Family Law in Costa Rica

Posted by Cyrus Seper

in Legal Advice

No-fault divorce: Costa Rica allows no-fault divorce, meaning that neither party needs to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce. Property division: Assets acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally between spouses unless otherwise agreed upon in a prenuptial agreement. Child custody laws: Costa Rican courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody, often granting joint...

Blog