Yawha & Associates

BANKRUPTCY

We assist clients in making advised decisions throughout the bankruptcy process. This process includes representation in bankruptcy proceedings/court hearings, gathering and preparing pertinent documents, and assessing the viability of assets in paying off the debtor’s balance.

We work with several internationally renowned accountancy firms, appraisers and other professionals to ensure that we get the maximum return on your interests.

CIVIL RIGHTS LAW

We work to protect your individual civil rights and civil liberties and ensure that all individuals are treated equally under the law. We handle a broad range of cases that deal with a variety of civil rights issues, including:

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Employment discrimination based on age, sex, ethnicity and nation of origin

Voting rights

Religious Liberties

Fundamental Rights and Duties as enumerated in the Constitution of Vanuatu

Any other way in which an individual may feel that their rights are being infringed upon.

CORPORATE LAW

We address all aspects of a corporation’s legal administration. Our duties include handling proceedings with mergers, acquisitions, liability disputes, legal compliance, and much more. We specialise in:

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General Counsel

Trademark/Copyright

Privacy and Data Security

Cyberspace Law

Collections

Contracts

Incorporation

Procurement of VFIPA certificate and business licenses

Litigation

Patents

CRIMINAL LAW

We handle a diverse spectrum of criminal cases, ranging from domestic violence crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, theft, embezzlement, fraud etc.

​We guide clients through bail bond hearings, plea bargains, trial, revocation hearings (parole or probation), appeals and post-conviction remedies.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

We actively promote client autonomy in the resolution of disputes and believe in the freedom of our clients to make their own arrangements to resolve their disputes.

Sometimes you may need a more creative solution that a court may not be sanctioned to impose. We will assist you in settling disputes without litigation, using methods of arbitration, mediation, or negotiation.

EMPLOYMENT LAW

We ensure that employers comply with the laws relating to the formation and cessation of employee relationships. We can assist you by defending claims, drafting and negotiating employment contracts and advising on HR policies.

Conversely, in contentious cases, where employers do not comply with the law, we help employees confront unfair challenges they have endured in their workplace.

We deal with issues ranging from wages and compensation to harassment and discrimination.

IMMIGRATION LAW

Vanuatu offers both residency and citizenship programmes. You can become a Vanuatu Permanent Resident under any of the following categories: partner, child, employee, self-funded resident, foreign investor, or land owner. If you reside in Vanuatu as a permanent resident for over 10 years, you will become eligible for citizenship by naturalisation.

​In January 2017, the Vanuatu Government launched the Development Support Program (DSP) for the purpose of raising funds to support infrastructure and promoting economic development in Vanuatu. Under the Citizenship Act [CAP 112], candidates may apply for Vanuatu Citizenship by contributions to the Government of Vanuatu.

In 2021, the Citizenship Act [CAP 112], was amended to allow the acquisition of Vanuatu Citizenship through property investment. Commonly referred to as REO (Real Estate Option Program), this program was created maximise economic growth.

​Applications for citizenship must be lodged by a designated agent. Yawha & Associates is a Designated Agent and a renowned law firm that offers you a comprehensive and professional service.