Best Lawsuits & Disputes Lawyers in Tokyo

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Kameido Law Office
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 1990
2 people in their team
English
Kameido Law Office operates in the Kameido district of Tokyo and has served the local community for more than 40 years. The firm reports over 200 consultations annually, reflecting a steady stream of client matters and a track record of practical, results oriented advice. It emphasizes accessible...

Founded in 2013
200 people in their team
Japanese
English
FirmThe leading Japanese law office ATSUMI & SAKAI and JANSSEN FOREIGN LAW OFFICE have entered into a Foreign Law Joint Enterprise to form integrated legal teams in the closest form of cooperation between Japanese and foreign lawyers. In this way, we combine the bridge function of a foreign law...

Founded in 2000
English
Founded in 2000, Nakashima Law Office is a Tokyo based, international maritime and corporate law practice led by Katsumi Nakashima. Drawing on experience from Nishimura & Sanada and a long standing association with the Law Office of T. Mark Halpern, the firm provides expertise across corporate...

Founded in 2018
4 people in their team
English
Maekawa Law Office is a bilingual Osaka-based law firm specializing in cross-border matters and international dispute resolution. The practice blends Japanese and common law expertise to support domestic and foreign clients in complex disputes, negotiations, and arbitrations. Led by Naoki Maekawa,...
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2020
1 person in their team
English
Iidabashi Law Office is led by attorney Masaya Nakano and specializes in civil and commercial disputes as well as corporate legal matters. With fifteen years of practice, Nakano has handled litigation, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution for individuals and businesses, including tenancy...
AMEMIYA LAW OFFICE
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2018
4 people in their team
English
Amemiya Law Office is a Tokyo-based maritime law practice specializing in contracts and disputes relating to the carriage of goods by sea, air, and land, and multimodal transport. The firm handles maritime contracts including charter parties, agency agreements, ship sales and shipbuilding...

Founded in 2019
40 people in their team
English
TKI is a Tokyo based law firm with a growing global footprint that concentrates on cross-border corporate matters and international disputes. Founded in 2019 with five lawyers, the firm operates from Tokyo and Singapore to serve clients across Asia and beyond, delivering coordinated advice for...

4 people in their team
English
Meguro International Law Office offers cross border family law representation with a focus on international divorce and Hague Convention matters. The firm draws on deep experience handling cases with international elements, including jurisdiction and choice of law issues, to secure practical and...
Shibasogo Law Offices
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
CorporateGeneral Legal Counsel / Legal Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance / Banking, Finance and Securities / M&ADispute Settlement, Litigation, ADRCivil Legal Practice / Collection of Claim / Real Estate / Traffic Accident / Inheritance / Domestic Affairs / Labor &...

Founded in 1917
30 people in their team
English
Nagawa-Okamura Law Office is a Tokyo based law firm with a history dating back to 1917. The firm provides deep expertise in litigation and court work across corporate and commercial matters, school law, labor issues, intellectual property, and real estate disputes, serving clients in Japan and on...
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About Lawsuits & Disputes Law in Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo, as in the rest of Japan, lawsuits and disputes are governed by a series of laws and regulations that establish the procedures for resolving conflicts through the judicial system. This includes civil law activities such as contractual disputes, torts, property disputes, and family law disputes, among others. The legal system is influenced by a mix of traditional Japanese legal culture and Western law. Civil litigation in Japan generally involves filing a complaint with a court, followed by a possibly lengthy process of documentation, negotiation, and potentially, trial proceedings.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where you may require legal assistance in Tokyo when it comes to lawsuits and disputes. Contractual disagreements between businesses, disputes over property boundaries, personal injury claims stemming from negligence, and conflicts arising from family law matters such as divorce or inheritance are all scenarios where legal advice might be crucial. Additionally, if you find yourself in a dispute that may lead to or has already led to litigation, it is highly recommended to seek legal representation to navigate the complex proceedings effectively and protect your interests.

Local Laws Overview

The key legal frameworks governing lawsuits and disputes in Tokyo include the Code of Civil Procedure, which outlines the process for civil litigation, and the Civil Code, which details substantive laws in private affairs. Language and cultural barriers can also become prominent factors in legal disputes, as local laws and practices might significantly differ from those in other countries. Furthermore, understanding the nuances of Japan's judicial system, like the preference for settlement and mediation over court trials, is critical for anyone involved in a legal dispute.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do civil lawsuits typically take in Tokyo?

Civil lawsuits in Tokyo can vary in length, often taking from several months to a few years depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s caseload.

2. Are court proceedings in Tokyo conducted in English?

No, court proceedings are generally conducted in Japanese. It’s vital to have a bilingual lawyer or interpreter if you’re not fluent in Japanese.

3. What is the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in Tokyo?

The statute of limitations varies based on the type of dispute. For example, contractual claims typically have a 10-year limitation period from the time the claim becomes relevant.

4. Can I settle a dispute without going to court?

Yes, numerous disputes are settled out of court through negotiations between parties, often with the assistance of lawyers or through a formal mediation process.

5. What are the costs associated with filing a lawsuit in Tokyo?

Costs may include court fees, attorney’s fees, and various other expenses such as expert witness fees and document translation costs.

6. Is litigation the only way to resolve a dispute?

No, alternatives such as mediation or arbitration are also available and can sometimes be more time and cost-effective.

7. How do I find a reputable lawyer in Tokyo?

One can find a reputable lawyer through referrals, the local bar association, or directories of lawyers providing services in English or other languages if needed.

8. Are there any governmental bodies that oversee lawsuits and disputes in Tokyo?

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Ministry of Justice have departments and organizations responsible for overseeing various aspects of the legal system.

9. What is the role of a "bengoshi" in lawsuits and disputes?

A "bengoshi" is a Japanese attorney who represents clients in legal matters and can provide advice and court representation.

10. Can foreign judgments be enforced in Tokyo?

Foreign judgments can be enforced in Japan under certain conditions, as outlined in the Code of Civil Procedure, but this typically requires a separate validation process in the Japanese courts.

Additional Resources

Those seeking legal advice in Tokyo can refer to resources such as the Tokyo Bar Association, which provides a searchable database of lawyers and guidance on the Japanese legal system. The Japan Federation of Bar Associations offers a range of legal resources, while the Japan Legal Support Center (Houterasu) can also assist those with limited finances. Additionally, embassies and consulates in Tokyo often have lists of local lawyers who speak foreign languages.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a lawsuit or dispute in Tokyo, the first step is to consult with a qualified "bengoshi" experienced in the relevant area of law. They can help assess your case, advise on your legal rights and obligations, and represent you in negotiations or court if necessary. Be sure to gather all relevant documents and evidence related to your case before meeting with your lawyer. Communication is key, so ensure that there are no language barriers that could impede your case's progress.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Tokyo 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 Lawsuits & Disputes, 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.

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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.