Best Business Lawyers in Panama City

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AGROUP CONSULTING

AGROUP CONSULTING

Panama City, Panama

Founded in 2021
103 people in their team
German
English
Spanish
Russian
🌍 Looking for premier experts in visas, company formation, and tax optimization? Agroup Consulting is Panama's top international firm, bringing together unparalleled expertise in these areas. Their bilingual team, fluent in English and German, provides comprehensive 24/7 support. Choose them for...
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Mata & Pitti Lawyers - Law Firm

Mata & Pitti Lawyers - Law Firm

Panama City, Panama

Founded in 1984
10 people in their team
Spanish
English
About our firm.Founded in 1984, Mata & Pitti is a Panama law firm offering over 30 years of experience to an international clientele interested in the offshore legal opportunities that Panama provides to the world.Our areas of expertise are mainly associated with incorporations of Panama...
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Universal Services

Universal Services

15 minutes Free Consultation
Panama City, Panama

Founded in 2019
3 people in their team
English
Spanish
At Universal Services, we're your trusted partners for comprehensive legal and language solutions, catering to the diverse needs of both corporations and individuals engaged in business within and beyond Panama.We are dedicated to offering consistent legal assistance to both local Panamanian...
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PGS ATTORNEYS

PGS ATTORNEYS

15 minutes Free Consultation
Panama City, Panama

Founded in 2008
25 people in their team
English
Spanish
PGS Attorneys is a full-service law firm. The firm specializes in corporate and commercial legal services, immigration, real estate, litigation, estate planning, protection, and tax law. Their group also includes a realty company. Our legal practice includes areas such as: Real Estate Legal...
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KOVALENKO & VERA Abogados. Attorneys at Law

KOVALENKO & VERA Abogados. Attorneys at Law

Panama City, Panama

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Spanish
English
Kovalenko & Vera is a Panamanian law firm that stands out for its commitment and dedication to providing a personalized service to all its national and international clients, in terms of legal representation and advice.Kovalenko & Vera offers a range of legal services in Panama with the...
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Molina & Co

Molina & Co

Panama City, Panama

Founded in 1980
8 people in their team
English
Molina & Co. Law and Business Strategy ConsultantsAt Molina & Co., we stand at the forefront of law and business strategy in the Republic of Panama, renowned for our leadership in corporate and legal consultancy. Our expertise is rooted in the comprehensive development and management of...
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Kraemer and Kraemer

Kraemer and Kraemer

Panama City, Panama

Founded in 2008
30 people in their team
Spanish
English
Portuguese
Kraemer & Kraemer is a law firm in the Republic of Panama, assisting companies and individual investors with establishing commercial operations in Panama, from basic to regulated activities, as well as general legal affairs within Immigration, Taxation, Business, Real Estate, Trademarks,...
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Evans Gonzalez Moreno & Asociados

Evans Gonzalez Moreno & Asociados

Panama City, Panama

English
A professional law firm offering expert legal services.
De Castro & Robles

De Castro & Robles

Panama City, Panama

Founded in 1956
English
De Castro & Robles, a renowned law firm in Panama, is distinguished for its comprehensive legal services and profound expertise in various legal domains. The firm adeptly navigates complex legal landscapes, providing exceptional solutions across a spectrum of practice areas. Their seasoned...
Rose Moreno Legal Advisor & Translator

Rose Moreno Legal Advisor & Translator

15 minutes Free Consultation
Panama City, Panama

Founded in 2007
11 people in their team
English
Spanish
Trusted Immigration, Corporate, and Legal Services | Rose Moreno Legal Advisor & TranslatorAt Rose Moreno Legal Advisor & Translator, we are dedicated to delivering tailored legal solutions with professionalism and precision. Our expertise spans a wide range of legal and administrative...
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About Business Law in Panama City, Panama

Panama City serves as a dynamic business hub in Latin America, known for its robust financial services sector, strategic location as a gateway between North and South America, and the vital Panama Canal. The city offers a favorable business environment characterized by political stability, a growing economy, and tax efficiencies. Business law in Panama City encompasses various aspects, including company formation, taxation, contracts, employment, and compliance with both domestic and international regulations. The legal framework supports diverse business activities, from banking and logistics to tourism and real estate.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer for business in Panama City can be crucial in several scenarios. Legal professionals assist with the incorporation and structuring of entities, ensuring compliance with local regulations. They provide guidance on tax planning to maximize efficiency, help navigate employment laws, and draft contracts to secure business relationships. Additionally, lawyers offer essential support in dispute resolution, intellectual property protection, and mergers or acquisitions. For foreign investors, legal assistance is vital to understand local legislative nuances and safeguard investments.

Local Laws Overview

Understanding local business laws is essential for operating effectively in Panama City. Key aspects include the Commercial Code, which governs business operations, and the various laws regulating different business entities such as corporations, limited liability companies, and partnerships. Taxation laws are another crucial area, with Panama offering a territorial tax system where only income generated within the country is subject to tax. Employment laws provide frameworks for labor contracts, working conditions, and employee rights. Moreover, Panama is known for its laws protecting offshore banking and its secure financial services environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for setting up a business in Panama?

The process typically involves selecting a business structure, registering the company with the Panama Public Registry, obtaining a business license, registering for taxes, and opening a corporate bank account.

Do foreign businesses get special treatment in Panama?

Panama offers significant incentives for foreign businesses, including tax benefits for certain sectors and special regimes, such as the Multinational Companies Headquarters (SEM) regime, designed to attract international businesses.

What taxes are applicable to businesses in Panama?

Businesses in Panama are subject to income tax, which is levied only on income generated within the country, as well as VAT (Value-Added Tax), import duties, and other industry-specific taxes.

Is it necessary to hire Panamanian employees for a business in Panama?

While there are no strict requirements to hire only Panamanian employees, labor laws do stipulate that at least 90% of a company's workforce must be Panamanian nationals, though there are some exceptions.

How are business disputes resolved in Panama?

Business disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Panama has a well-established legal framework for arbitration which is often preferred for its efficiency.

Are there specific licensing requirements for certain industries?

Yes, certain industries, such as banking, insurance, and telecommunications, have specific licensing requirements that must be adhered to before commencing operations.

What are the benefits of forming an offshore company in Panama?

Offshore companies in Panama benefit from tax advantages, strong privacy protections, and a flexible legal structure that supports a wide range of business activities.

Can foreigners own property or businesses in Panama?

Foreigners have the right to own property and businesses in Panama, with the same rights and responsibilities as Panamanian citizens, subject to some restrictions in border areas.

What is the role of the Panama Canal in local business law?

The Panama Canal significantly impacts local business law, particularly in the logistics and shipping industries, with specific regulations and opportunities tied to canal-related activities.

How does one ensure compliance with environmental regulations in operations?

Businesses must conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and obtain the necessary environmental permits as mandated by the National Environmental Authority (ANAM) to ensure compliance.

Additional Resources

For further guidance, consider consulting the Panama Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture; the Superintendency of Banks of Panama; or the national agency responsible for promoting investments, ProPanama. These organizations provide invaluable support and resources for businesses.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for your business in Panama City, it's advisable to consult with a qualified lawyer specializing in Panamanian business law. Consider scheduling consultations with several firms to compare expertise, services, and fees. Prepare all necessary documents and a summary of your business needs or challenges to ensure an efficient consultation process. Your lawyer will guide you through the legal intricacies of your business operations, ensuring compliance and strategic advantage in Panama's competitive market.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Panama City 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 Business, 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 Panama City, Panama—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.