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Top Law Firm in Makati

Themis Partner is a dynamic legal consultancy headquartered in the Philippines, offering tailored services to expats, startups, and corporate clients operating in Makati’s financial district. Whether you’re launching a business, applying for work authorization, or facing a legal issue, our Makati lawyers provide strategic legal solutions in both English and Filipino.

Our law firm in Makati merges deep knowledge of local Philippine law with a strong grasp of international corporate standards. As a legal partner of choice for financial institutions, outsourcing companies, and tech innovators, we offer fair pricing, responsive communication, and fully customized legal support. Themis Partner is here to help you navigate legal obligations confidently while growing in the heart of Metro Manila.

Trusted Legal Services in Makati

1. Corporate & Business Law

Makati is widely known as the financial capital of the Philippines, hosting the country’s top banks, multinational headquarters, and a thriving corporate ecosystem. At Themis Partner, we assist both Filipino and foreign investors with comprehensive legal support including company formation, partnership agreements, restructuring, and legal compliance audits. Our legal team ensures your business meets the requirements set by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Makati Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO). For businesses seeking incentives, we also facilitate applications through the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI).

2. Company Registration & Licensing

Launching a business in Makati involves registering with national and local authorities. Themis Partner guides you through every step from corporate name reservation to post-registration compliance with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth. Minimum requirements to register a corporation in Makati:

➤ Minimum of 5 incorporators (majority must be residents of the Philippines)
➤ At least 1 corporate secretary and 1 treasurer (Filipino citizens)
➤ Capital requirements depending on the level of foreign equity (minimum of PHP 5,000 for domestic companies)

3. Contracts & Legal Documents

Our Makati lawyers assist clients in drafting, customizing, and translating essential business agreements under Philippine law. Whether you’re launching a startup or managing a large corporation, we provide legally compliant contract templates designed to reduce legal risks and improve operational clarity. We support your business with:

4. Work Permits & Visas for Foreigners

To work legally in Makati, foreign nationals must obtain both a 9(g) Pre-arranged Employment Visa and an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from DOLE. Our immigration lawyers support you throughout the entire process:

➤ Application for 9(g) visa via sponsoring company
➤ AEP application and coordination with DOLE Makati
➤ Visa conversion at the Bureau of Immigration
➤ Renewal, visa extension, and annual reporting

5. Real Estate & Property Transactions

Foreign nationals are not allowed to own land in the Philippines, but they can acquire condominium units, provided that foreign ownership does not exceed 40% of the total project. In Makati’s thriving real estate market, our lawyers assist with due diligence, review of titles, and the secure transfer of ownership. 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 via Filipino corporations with up to 40% foreign ownership

6. Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Our litigation lawyers in Makati handle both civil and criminal cases across various forums. We manage proceedings related to:

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

We represent clients before the Makati City Municipal Trial Court and escalate cases when necessary to the Court of Appeals of the Philippines. We also facilitate mediation and arbitration to resolve disputes in line with the Philippines’ Judiciary Dispute Resolution (JDR) framework, promoting quicker and more cost-effective outcomes.

Why Choose Themis Partner as Your Law Firm in Makati?

1. Local Knowledge, International Standards

Our legal team is trained in both Philippine and international law, ensuring clients receive accurate legal guidance aligned with global expectations. We help foreign clients navigate Makati’s regulatory landscape with confidence.

2. English-Speaking Lawyers

We speak your language literally. Our lawyers explain Filipino legal concepts in fluent English to ensure you understand every step of your case.

3. Transparent Fees and Timely Support

No hidden charges. Our fixed-fee services come with clear timelines and fast turnaround, from initial consultation to final resolution.

4. Tailored Legal Advice for Expats and Businesses

Whether you’re entering a joint venture or facing a dispute, we deliver personalized advice that supports your business strategy and legal goals in Makati’s fast-paced commercial environment.

Legal Services for Foreign Investors in Makati

1. Business Setup and BOI Registration

If you’re a foreign entrepreneur planning to own 100% of a company in the Philippines, Makati offers ideal access to BOI (Board of Investments) incentives. These privileges are available in promoted industries such as:

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

We guide you through the full BOI registration cycle from drafting a tailored business plan to coordinating with government bodies.

2. Tax and Accounting Compliance

Companies in Makati must file timely tax declarations in accordance with Philippine law. Our accounting lawyers ensure full compliance, including:

➤ 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

Philippine corporate law generally requires at least 60% local ownership. In Makati, we help foreign clients structure legal workarounds via BOI or strategic equity planning. We draft protective shareholder agreements, issue preferred shares to safeguard profit rights, and ensure all setups comply with national restrictions. Visit our Foreign Business Ownership in Makati page for insights.

Doing Business in Makati?

Explore our full legal and regulatory guide for launching a company in one of Metro Manila’s most dynamic business districts: Doing Business in Makati

1. Overview of Business Environment

Makati is widely regarded as the financial epicenter of the Philippines. With its concentration of banks, law firms, multinational HQs, and high-end office spaces, it is a strategic choice for investors looking to establish corporate presence in Southeast Asia. The city’s business-friendly ecosystem and well-developed infrastructure attract a wide range of industries, from fintech to BPOs.

Key Legal Considerations:

➤ Business permits, zoning and Makati 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 Makati.

2. How Our Law Firm Supports You

From business registration to compliance strategy, our legal experts guide you at every step. Whether at the SEC, BIR, or LGU level, we ensure your company is fully aligned with Makati’s legal framework.

Contact Our Law Firm in Makati

1. Free Initial Consultation: Need help choosing the right structure or visa? Book a free consultation with one of our lawyers in Makati for custom legal advice.

2. Office Address and Directions: We are based in the heart of Makati CBD, easily reachable via Ayala Avenue or public transport. Virtual meetings are also available upon request.

3. WhatsApp, Email, and Line Contact Options: Our legal team can be reached through WhatsApp, email, or phone, and typically replies within 24 hours.

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

With extensive experience supporting international and Filipino clients, Themis Partner is your go-to legal advisor in Metro Manila. Whether you are registering a business, applying for a work visa, or need help drafting a contract, our team is ready to support you. Learn more about our legal services in the Philippines or contact us today for tailored guidance. Maximize your business potential in Makati with Themis Partner local expertise, efficient service, and legal clarity you can rely on.

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