Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Japan

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Shirotae Law Office
Shizuoka, Japan

Founded in 2024
2 people in their team
English
Shirotae Law Office is a boutique law practice based in Shizuoka City, Japan. The firm was established in March 2024 and is led by a representative attorney together with a co-managing partner, who oversee client service and strategic guidance for each matter.The practice focuses on three core...

English
Kitasenju ACT Law Office is a neighborhood law firm located in Kitasenju, Tokyo, serving clients in Adachi, Katsushika, Arakawa and nearby areas of the Tokyo 23 wards. The firm maintains a strong local presence and provides accessible legal services with flexible appointment options to accommodate...
Masui Total Law Office
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2021
9 people in their team
English
Masui & Partners provides corporate and commercial legal services with a focus on both domestic and cross-border matters. The practice includes M&A, business succession, corporate governance design, and regulatory compliance, supported by the representative attorney's experience at a top U.S. law...
Isle Law Office
Nagoya, Japan

English
Isle Law Office, known in Japanese as アイル法律事務所, operates from Nagoya in Aichi prefecture as a nearby, client-focused law firm in Japan. The practice emphasizes accessibility and practical legal guidance for individuals and families, handling matters such as inheritance, divorce, and...
Matsura Law Office
Higashihiroshima, Japan

Founded in 2023
2 people in their team
English
Matsura Law Office, located in East Hiroshima, is a two attorney practice focusing on personal and corporate matters across civil law, family matters, and business disputes. The firm provides practical legal counsel and hands on representation for individuals and organizations in the region,...

Founded in 1985
2 people in their team
English
Otsuka Tsuda Law Offices is a Kochi-based law firm located along the citys main thoroughfare, providing easy access for clients. The practice aims to shed the traditional image of a high barrier law firm by welcoming small and medium sized businesses as well as individuals to seek guidance on...
Funi Law Office
Fukuoka, Japan

Founded in 1992
5 people in their team
English
Based in Fukuoka City, this long established Japanese law firm offers comprehensive counsel to companies and individuals, drawing on more than six decades of practice. The office traces its origins to the late 1960s and has operated under its current partnership structure since the early 1990s,...
Kin Law Office
Akishima, Japan

Founded in 2022
6 people in their team
English
Kin Law Office is a Tokyo-based law firm located in Akishima that concentrates on corporate legal services, real-estate matters, traffic-accident claims, family law and debt resolution. The firm draws on attorneys with in-house counsel experience at major construction and real-estate companies as...

Founded in 2023
English
Bengoshi Hojin Wakasugi Law Office is a boutique law firm based in central Fukuoka, Japan, founded in June 2023 by Akihito Wakasugi, a former prosecutor who brings a disciplined, results-oriented approach to clients. The firm positions itself as a nearby, approachable option for individuals and...

Founded in 2023
1 person in their team
English
Sapporo Wakiyama Law Office is a boutique law practice based in central Sapporo, Hokkaido. Since opening in July 2023, the firm has established a reputation for handling a broad range of civil matters with a focus on accessibility and practical results. The practice areas include Accidents &...
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About Personal Injury Law in Japan

Personal injury law in Japan involves legal disputes that arise when one party suffers harm from an accident or injury, and another party might be legally responsible for that harm. In Japan, personal injuries can result from traffic accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, or other incidents where there is potential to claim compensation from the party at fault. Unlike some other countries, Japan doesn't have a jury system for personal injury cases, and instead relies on judges to decide the outcomes based on the evidence presented.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where seeking legal advice in the realm of personal injury may be beneficial:

  • Complex Cases: If the circumstances surrounding your injury are complicated, determining liability could require legal expertise.
  • Insurance Issues: When facing difficulties with insurance companies or disagreeing on the compensation amount, a lawyer can advocate on your behalf.
  • Severe Injuries: For serious injuries, securing a fair settlement that covers medical costs, lost wages, and other damages often requires legal intervention.
  • Lack of Legal Knowledge: Navigating the legal system without understanding its intricacies can be daunting; a lawyer can provide guidance and representation.
  • Disputes Over Fault: When there is disagreement about who is at fault for the injury, legal advice can help establish liability.

Local Laws Overview

Japan has specific laws that are relevant to personal injury cases:

  • Fault-Based System: Compensation is typically dependent on proving the other party's fault.
  • Statute of Limitations: Personal injury claims generally must be filed within three years from the date when the injured party becomes aware of the harm and the responsible party.
  • Comparative Negligence: If the injured party is partly at fault, compensation may be reduced proportionally.
  • No-Punitive Damages: Unlike some jurisdictions, Japan does not award punitive damages; compensation is intended to cover actual losses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after suffering a personal injury?

Seek medical attention first, report the incident to the relevant authorities, gather evidence, and consider consulting a lawyer.

How is compensation determined in personal injury cases?

Compensation is generally based on actual damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, calculated based on the fault of the parties involved.

Is there a time limit for filing a personal injury claim in Japan?

Yes, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically three years from the date when you become aware of the damage and the responsible party.

Can I claim compensation if I am partly at fault for the accident?

Yes, Japan follows the comparative negligence rule, which means that your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

What happens if the responsible party disputes liability?

Your lawyer can help gather evidence to prove liability and negotiate on your behalf, possibly leading to a settlement or court decision.

Is it mandatory to hire a lawyer for a personal injury case?

No, it's not mandatory, but hiring a lawyer can improve your chances of obtaining a fair settlement, especially in complex cases.

Are there any out-of-court options for resolving a personal injury case?

Yes, many cases in Japan are settled through negotiation or mediation, which can be faster and less expensive than going to court.

How can a lawyer assist with insurance claims?

A lawyer can help interpret the policy, file claims, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Can foreigners access legal assistance for personal injury in Japan?

Yes, foreigners can access legal assistance and are entitled to pursue claims similarly to Japanese citizens.

What is the success rate for personal injury lawsuits in Japan?

The success rate can vary depending on the specifics of each case, including evidence, liability clarity, and legal representation quality.

Additional Resources

For more information or assistance regarding personal injury matters in Japan, consider the following resources:

  • Japan Legal Support Center (Houterasu): Offers legal advice and resources.
  • Tokyo Bar Association: Provides a directory of qualified lawyers specializing in personal injury.
  • Japan Federation of Bar Associations: National legal association that can offer referrals.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance for a personal injury matter in Japan:

  • Gather all relevant documentation and evidence related to your injury and the incident that caused it.
  • List all potential witnesses or experts who can support your claim.
  • Contact a qualified personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and explore your legal options for pursuing compensation.
  • Consider initiating negotiations with the other party or their insurance company, with the aid of legal representation.
  • If necessary, prepare to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Japan 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 Personal Injury, 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.