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Top Law Firm in Davao

Themis Partner is a full-service legal consultancy based in the Philippines, with strong experience assisting foreign nationals, investors, and local entrepreneurs in navigating the legal framework specific to Davao. Whether you’re launching a company, securing a visa, or resolving a legal dispute, our Davao-based lawyers provide reliable, business-oriented legal advice in English and Filipino.

Our law firm in Davao blends deep local legal insight with international commercial standards, making us a go-to legal partner for businesses across Mindanao. With clear pricing, fast communication, and personalized legal service, Themis Partner helps you stay compliant while succeeding in Davao’s growing economic hub.

Trusted Legal Services in Davao

1. Corporate & Business Law

Davao is emerging as a strategic business hub in Mindanao, known for its agricultural exports, trade access, and growing infrastructure. Themis Partner assists local and international entrepreneurs in setting up companies, navigating corporate compliance, and managing governance structures. Our legal team offers support with shareholder agreements, corporate restructuring, and due diligence aligned with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC) regulations. We also assist eligible companies with Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) registration to access tax breaks and foreign equity exemptions.

2. Company Registration & Licensing

Starting a business in Davao involves both national and local registration. Themis Partner guides you from reserving your company name with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to securing your Davao Business Permit with the City Hall. We simplify each step to ensure legal compliance and fast-track your market entry. Minimum requirements include:

➤ Minimum of 5 incorporators (majority must be residents of the Philippines)
➤ At least 1 corporate secretary and 1 treasurer (Filipino citizens)
➤ Paid-in capital based on business classification (typically PHP 5,000 to PHP 200,000 for domestic corporations)

3. Contracts & Legal Documents

Our Davao lawyers specialize in preparing, reviewing, and translating business-critical legal documents tailored to Philippine laws. We deliver customizable contract templates that align with local regulations, helping you save time and reduce legal expenses. We assist clients in drafting various agreements, including:

4. Work Permits & Visas for Foreigners

Foreign nationals working in Davao must secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) and a valid 9(g) Work Visa. Our Davao-based immigration team streamlines the procedure from start to finish:

➤ Application for 9(g) visa via sponsoring company
➤ AEP filing and coordination with DOLE Region XI
➤ Visa conversion, stamping, and formal work permit issuance
➤ Extension of stay and report compliance (Annual Report, 90-day check-in)

5. Real Estate & Property Transactions

Foreign nationals are prohibited from owning land in the Philippines, including in Davao. However, they may legally acquire condominium units (up to 40% of the total project) or enter into long-term lease agreements. Our legal team in Davao conducts thorough due diligence, verifies property titles, and supports you throughout the registration process. For long-term occupancy or investment, we also assist with:

➤ Long-term Lease Agreement (up to 25 years, renewable)
➤ Usufructs and other beneficial use rights
➤ Real estate mortgage structuring and purchase contracts for financing
➤ Special arrangements through Filipino corporations with foreign minority stakes

6. Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Our litigation lawyers in Davao provide strategic and results-driven representation in both civil and criminal matters. We assist clients with:

➤ Contract breaches
➤ Employment-related conflicts
➤ Commercial debt collection
➤ Criminal defense proceedings

We represent clients before the Municipal Trial Court of Davao and the Court of Appeals of the Philippines, depending on the nature and scope of the case. We also offer mediation and arbitration services in accordance with the Judicial Dispute Resolution (JDR) program, to encourage fast and amicable settlements whenever possible.

Why Choose Themis Partner as Your Law Firm in Davao?

1. Local Knowledge, International Standards

Our Davao-based lawyers blend in-depth understanding of Philippine law with international best practices. Whether you’re an expat, investor, or local entrepreneur, we deliver clear and strategic legal advice tailored to Davao’s regulatory environment.

2. English-Speaking Lawyers

Legal matters can be stressful language shouldn’t be. Our team is fluent in English and Bisaya, and we ensure that every client fully understands their rights and the legal implications of their case.

3. Transparent Fees and Timely Support

We offer flat-fee legal services with no hidden costs. From consultation to court representation, you get prompt, clear updates and delivery times we stick to.

4. Tailored Legal Advice for Expats and Businesses

From resolving real estate issues to drafting business contracts or handling visa-related litigation, our legal services in Davao are built to match your personal or business goals. Whether you’re a local startup or a foreign investor, we adapt our approach to fit your profile.

Legal Services for Foreign Investors in Davao

1. Business Setup and PEZA Registration

If you are a foreign investor seeking to fully own a corporation in the Philippines, Davao provides pathways through PEZA or BOI registration. Our team helps you navigate legal requirements, evaluate eligibility, and complete all necessary filings. The PEZA or BOI incentives in Davao focus on sectors such as:

➤ Tech and software
➤ E-commerce
➤ Logistics and supply chain
➤ Renewable and sustainable energy solutions

We oversee every stage of the setup from entity structuring and business plan drafting to interview preparation.

2. Tax and Accounting Compliance

Davao-based companies must file periodic tax reports and meet compliance standards under BIR regulations. Our accounting professionals ensure that your business stays compliant through:

➤ VAT registration and filings (if annual revenue exceeds PHP 3M)
➤ Withholding tax (WHT) declarations
➤ Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG contributions

3. Philippine Shareholding & Nominee Structures

In Davao, foreign investors must comply with the 60% Filipino ownership rule unless exempted by BOI or PEZA. To help maintain control while staying compliant, we create tailored shareholder agreements and preferred share setups. These legal structures protect foreign interests without violating Philippine corporate law. Our team ensures your setup aligns with both local regulations and long-term business goals.Learn more on our Foreign Business Ownership in Davao page.

Doing Business in Davao?

Explore our full legal and regulatory guide for launching a business in one of Mindanao’s key economic hubs: Doing Business in Davao

1. Overview of Business Environment

Davao is a strategic center for agriculture, logistics, and trade in the southern Philippines. With access to international ports, business parks, and competitive costs, it offers strong advantages for setting up a regional HQ or commercial base.

Key Legal Considerations:

➤ Business permits, zoning and Davao LGU compliance
➤ Foreign equity limitations under the Philippine Foreign Investment Negative List
➤ DOLE-compliant employment contracts and labor law support
➤ BIR income tax regulations (ranging from 20% to 35%)

Visit our dedicated page to get insights on setting up legally and strategically in Davao.

2. How Our Law Firm Supports You

From company registration and drafting your Articles of Incorporation to assisting you at the SEC or local investment board, our team in Davao handles your legal process so you can focus on growing your operations.

Contact Our Law Firm in Davao

1. Free Initial Consultation: Unsure which legal structure fits your business? Book a free legal consultation with one of our Davao lawyers for tailored advice.

2. Office Address and Directions: We are located in central Davao and also offer remote consultations for flexibility.

3. WhatsApp, Email, and Line Contact Options: Contact us directly through your preferred channel. We respond within 24 hours.

Get Started with Themis Partner, Your Trusted Law Firm in Davao

With years of experience advising businesses across the Philippines, Themis Partner is your trusted legal advisor in Davao. Whether you’re registering a company, applying for permits, or drafting a contract, our team is ready to help. Explore all our legal services in Davao or contact us today for a personalized quote. Optimize your business launch in Davao with Themis Partner. Local expertise, fast service, and clear legal advice you can trust.

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