Best Banking & Finance Lawyers in Colombo

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John Wilson Partners
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1920
12 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
French
Sinhala
Tamil
Swedish
ABOUT US: Founded in 1920 by the late Senator John Wilson, the firm is an established legal practice in Sri Lanka, providing service in the areas of civil litigation, commercial law and notarial practice to corporations, financial institutions and individuals. John Wilson Partners has an...
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Premier Legal Consultants
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
Premier Legal Consultants is a law firm established in Sri Lanka. Our team of lawyers are committed in providing high quality and timely legal services to our clients. We provide a range of legal services for both local and international clients.Premier Legal Consultants is a law firm established...
Julius & Creasy
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1879
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
Our HistoryWith its near 140 year history Julius & Creasy is one of the oldest law Firms in Sri Lanka, while also being the largest. Its reputation is one that has been built on rich tradition as well as the caliber of professionals passing through its corridors.The beginnings of the...
Gregory's Partners
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1970
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
AboutThe Sri Lankan economy and therefore its legal system has traditionally been influenced by the island’s colonial past. Thus, the legal profession in Sri Lanka was traditionally divided into two fractions based on functionality influenced by a similar divide in the English Legal system.The...
Colombo Law Alliance (CLA)
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2012
50 people in their team
Introduction to CLAThe team at CLA brings together extensive experience and expertise in providing specialized legal services to a substantial network of clients both in the private sector and the public sector. These services are provided in connection with litigation, arbitration, negotiation of...
C. Mathew & Co.
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1892
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
About Us & Our History"Necessarily in connection with the shipping of so important a port as Colombo there is a large field for the business of ship chandlers and stevedores ; and Messrs. C. Mathew & Co., the leading local firm in this line, conduct operations on an extensive scale. This...
A WIJESINGHE CHAMBERS
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2008
5 people in their team
English
Sinhala
Tamil
We are a professional team offering a broad range of services tailored to both businesses and individuals. Our expertise spans legal, corporate, and advisory areas, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive solutions suited to their unique needs. Specializing in company secretarial services,...
DIMEAN LAW CHAMBERS
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
DIMEAN is a premier law firm based in Colombo, Sri Lanka. We aim to provide a personalized service tailored to the specific requirements of our clients. Our attorneys aim to provide innovative legal solutions in various disciplines.DIMEAN is established by a blend of young...
Continental Law AssocIates
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
ABOUT USEstablished in the year 2000, we take pride in our nearly two decades long legal practice providing feasible solutions to the legal needs of clients in a multitude of areas. The firm has had hands on experience, specializing in Commercial Law, Local and International Arbitration, Civil Law...
Paul Ratnayeke Associates
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1987
50 people in their team
Sinhala
Tamil
English
Paul Ratnayeke AssociatesPaul Ratnayeke Associates was founded in 1987 by its Senior Partner, Mr. J. H. Paul Ratnayeke to create a more focused, efficient and responsive practice in the fields of Corporate, Commercial, Litigation and Financial law.The firm ensures that all clients’ legal needs...
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About Banking & Finance Law in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Banking & Finance law in Colombo is primarily regulated at a national level by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and includes legislation such as the Banking Act, the Finance Companies Act, and the Foreign Exchange Act. It covers a wide range of matters including commercial and personal banking, lending, securities, investments and foreign exchange. The legal aspects involved are complex, and the consequences for breaches can be severe.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Individuals or corporates engaged in lending, borrowing, or investing will often need a lawyer to help mitigate risks and ensure compliance with legal regulations. Lawyers may be required in situations like establishment of a banking institution, drafting credit agreements, debt restructuring, commercial mortgages, resolving banking disputes, or in issues related to investment fraud, insider trading or other financial crimes.

Local Laws Overview

The principal laws governing Banking & Finance in Colombo include the Monetary Law Act, the Banking Act, the Finance Business Act, and the Financial Transactions Reporting Act. Under these laws, the Central Bank has regulatory and supervisory powers over banking institutions. The laws provide the framework for licensing, regulation, and supervision of banks, requiring them to maintain specific capital adequacy ratios, adhere to rules on risk management, maintain reserves, and follow reporting and disclosure requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of the Central Bank?

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka is tasked with the regulation and supervision of all financial institutions in the country. This includes formulating and implementing monetary policy, maintaining financial system stability, and managing the country's foreign reserves.

What are the main duties of a banking and finance lawyer in Colombo?

In addition to advising on the structure and documentation of transactions, a banking and finance lawyer typically negotiates and drafts loan agreements, manages collateral security arrangements, and formulates strategies for loan recovery.

What is the penalty for non-compliance with these laws?

Fines and imprisonment can be imposed for significant breaches of banking and finance laws. In cases of severe misconduct, banking licenses can be suspended or revoked.

Are there different rights for foreign investors?

Foreign investors are allowed to invest in Sri Lanka under the Foreign Exchange Act but there may be restrictions in certain sectors. Additionally, some investments may need approval or licensing.

Where can I find the Banking and Finance laws of Sri Lanka?

The official website of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka provides access to relevant legislation. Copies of laws can also be obtained through the Department of Government Printing.

Additional Resources

Additional resources include the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka, and the Colombo Stock Exchange, which offer guidance and information related to Banking & Finance laws in Sri Lanka.

Next Steps

If you require legal advice or assistance in relation to Banking & Finance in Sri Lanka, the essential first step is to engage a lawyer who specializes in this area of law. The lawyer will be able to provide tailored advice based on the specifics of your situation. It's crucial that you provide your lawyer with all relevant information to ensure accurate advice and effective representation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Colombo through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Banking & Finance, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Colombo, Sri Lanka - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.