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1. New Maritime Law for Superyachts In July 2024, Costa Rica enacted a significant new law that opens up the country to international superyacht operations. This law allows vessels over 24 meters (79 feet) to legally charter in Costa Rican waters and remain in the country for up to two years. Previously, foreign vessels were limited to 90-day stays and had...
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1. The Opening of Costa Rica's First General Aviation Terminal In July 2024, Costa Rica inaugurated its first-ever general aviation terminal at San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport, exclusively catering to business aviation operators. This new terminal, operated under the name GAT SJO General Aviation Terminal, marks a significant milestone for the country’s aviation industry. The terminal offers several benefits, including...
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Costa Rica's reputation as a haven for investors, retirees, and expats has attracted people from all over the world looking for a stable, high-quality lifestyle. However, despite its intentions, the country's current residency application process has become increasingly difficult to navigate due to bureaucratic hurdles and rigid requirements. For investors and high-net-worth individuals who are looking to make Costa Rica...
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False imprisonment is a significant human rights violation that involves unlawfully restraining an individual's freedom of movement. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of false imprisonment, including its legal definition, key elements, notable case studies, and the legal recourse available for victims. 1. Definition and Elements of False Imprisonment Definition False imprisonment occurs when a person is intentionally confined or restrained...
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Costa Rica has recently implemented stricter regulations to improve the transparency of beneficial ownership of legal entities. This measure aligns with international standards to combat tax evasion and money laundering. These changes are significant for businesses operating in Costa Rica, as they enhance the accountability and transparency of corporate structures. Here’s a detailed overview of the key provisions for enhanced...
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Costa Rica has taken a significant step toward enhancing transparency and accountability with the enactment of its first whistleblower protection law. This groundbreaking legislation aims to protect employees who report corruption from retaliation, ensuring that they can come forward without fear of adverse consequences. Here’s a detailed overview of the key provisions, implementation dates, and what this means for individuals...
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Costa Rica has recently introduced significant Costa Rican sentencing reforms to create a more balanced and fair justice system. These changes aim to ensure that sentences are proportionate to the offenses committed and offer alternative sentencing options to reduce the long-term impact of criminal records on individuals' lives. Here’s an in-depth look at these reforms, their announcement and effective dates,...
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Understanding recent changes in criminal justice law is essential for protecting your rights and ensuring fair treatment under the law. Costa Rica has introduced several significant reforms aimed at enhancing the justice system, improving legal processes, and safeguarding individual rights. Here’s an overview of these changes, along with their announcement dates, effective dates, and sources, and their impact on your...
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Contracts are the backbone of any business transaction, providing a clear framework for the rights and obligations of all parties involved. Drafting effective contracts is crucial for preventing disputes and ensuring smooth business operations. At Universal Legal, we specialize in creating robust contracts that protect our clients' interests. Here are some essential tips for drafting effective contracts that can help...
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At Universal Legal, we are committed to providing top-notch legal services while minimizing our environmental footprint. One of the key ways we achieve this is through our innovative virtual collaboration model. This approach not only enhances our efficiency and flexibility but also offers significant benefits to our clients. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how our virtual collaboration model works and...
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