Civil law
We advise you on everyday legal relationships: contracts, property and family assets.
Quick answer: A civil law attorney advises and represents individuals and families on contracts, property, estates and collections. In Costa Rica, a title and survey review is advisable before buying property; important contracts should be reviewed before signing; and estates are handled in court or, when there is no dispute, before a notary.
Contracts
- Drafting and review of purchase agreements, leases, loans, purchase options and other contracts.
- Review of contracts before you sign, with a clear explanation of your obligations and risks.
- Residential and commercial leases.
Property and real estate
- Title and survey (registry and cadastral) review before you buy.
- Easements, subdivisions, lot mergers and other real estate transactions.
- Guidance for foreign nationals acquiring property in Costa Rica.
Estates
- Probate proceedings before a notary or a court, as applicable.
- Wills and guidance on planning how your assets will be passed on.
Obligations and collections
- Out-of-court claims and debt collection.
- Representation in civil proceedings.
Frequently asked questions
What is a title search on Costa Rican property?
It is a review of the property’s record at the National Registry: who owns it, whether it has mortgages, attachments, annotations or easements, and whether the registered survey plan matches the land. It should be done before signing a purchase option or handing over any money.
Can an estate be probated before a notary in Costa Rica?
Yes, in some cases. When there is no dispute among the heirs, the law allows probate to be handled before a notary; if the heirs disagree, the case must go to court.
Should a lawyer review my lease in Costa Rica?
It is not mandatory, but a prior review helps you understand the term, rent increases, the deposit and the grounds for termination. Residential and commercial leases are governed by the General Law on Urban and Suburban Leases (Ley General de Arrendamientos Urbanos y Suburbanos).
More frequently asked questions
Official sources
- Costa Rica National Registry (Registro Nacional): www.rnpdigital.com
- Costa Rican Legal Information System (SCIJ, in Spanish): www.pgrweb.go.cr/scij
Would you like to discuss your matter?
Send us a short description of your question. We will reply to arrange a meeting at our office in San Pedro de Montes de Oca, a visit in Guanacaste, or a video call.