The still recent Spanish Bankruptcy Law more fully examines the legal system regarding company managers’ liability. This new liability system serves to supplement the system already provided for in the Public Limited Company and Limited Liability Company Laws, as well as the Criminal Code, within the framework of corporate crime.

The Capital Markets Board of Turkey (CMB) released the restrictions governing the some of the financial operations of sports activities business listed corporations with a set of principles.

Even though a criminal conviction can have grave consequences on one’s immigration status, neither criminal defense attorneys, nor judges, have a legal obligation to advise a criminal defendant of the immigration consequences of a plea agreement or conviction. This is because immigration consequences are collateral consequences to the criminal case, rather than direct.

What is the proper type of service of court process on a defendant by a creditor and the implications in an insolvency matter of the failure to ensure proper service on a defendant under the Insolvency Rules?

What is the type, extent and nature of the Disclosure required to be provided by the Prosecution to the Defendant under the CPIA after a criminal charge has been filed against the Defendant?

Non Payment of Entitled Bonus

Private Foundations are a unique form of legal entity which acts like a Trust and operates like a company. In this article, you will find some of the advantages of Private Foundations.

The China stock market boom and its subsequent decline is certainly “old news.” In July 2007, the chairman of HSBC’s Asia-Pacific division described the domestic demand for its shares in China as “mind-boggling.” However, between October 2007 and April 2008, the country's stock market indices fell by nearly 50 percent.

The simplest way for creditors to protect their rights in bankruptcy cases is by properly filing a proof of claim. This article discusses briefly the necessity for filing a proof of claim, the procedure for filing a proof of claim, and the effect of filing a proof of claim in a bankruptcy case. Citations have been omitted from this version of the article. For the full article, including citations, go to http://www.higgslawfirm.com/report.cfm

“Corporation” was the first term for an ancient prototype of legal entity and it remained the most popular type of legal entities in many European countries. This article is devoted to the appropriate perception of the similarities and differences in the modern types of European “corporations”, with a special focus on the main types of Ukrainian legal entities.

In times of universal business relations, foreign-economic contracts are probably signed more often than we blink. And, as it often happens in history, while the essence remains the same, formal demands to contracts often differ from country to country. In Ukraine, one of the heirs of the Soviet Union’s legal system, we clash with rather strict conditions of foreign economic activity, including special demands to the form of foreign trade contracts.

The Spanish competition policy has been reformed by Law 15/2007, dated 3 July, and further developed by Royal Decree 261/2008, dated 22 February, in order to adapt it to EU Competency regulations, to strengthen the existing mechanisms, and to provide it with the instruments and the optimum institutional structure to ensure effective competition in the markets.

We all set goals, whether formally or subconsciously, especially at the start of a new year, when we feel we can wipe the slate clean and start anew.

Registering with a referral service is a valid marketing avenue for the expert just starting a litigation support practice. This is also a good choice for an experienced expert who has a narrow, or esoteric, field. An attorney is more likely to use a referral service for an unusual specialty than he is for a more common one.

Unlike the position in Hong Kong, the major laws and regulations governing the protection of intellectual property rights in Mainland China do not explicitly set out restrictions on parallel importation.

Taxation of the foreign natural persons and legal entities in Bulgaria

Malta's commitment to the fight against money laundering and the funding of terrorism is firmly rooted in the country's interest in safeguarding its role as a reputable financial services centre, and buttressed by the country's status as a full member of the European Union and signatory to the main international multilateral treaties intended to tackle the affliction of money laundering in the world’s financial markets.

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) is a federal law that establishes legal and operational guidelines for private pension and employee benefit plans. Not all decisions directly involving a plan, even when made by a fiduciary, are subject to ERISA’s fiduciary rules. These decisions are business judgment type decisions and are commonly called “settlor” functions.

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) is a federal law that establishes legal and operational guidelines for private pension and employee benefit plans. The law requires that plan sponsors must provide participants with specific information about plan features and funding. ERISA also establishes certain fiduciary responsibilities for those who manage the plan.

A couple of years back I was invited to author a brief, highly pragmatic and regular 250-word snippet for the ABA’s Law Practice Magazine addressing the strategic issues that law firms face on a continuing basis.

Drawen from surveys, discussions and interviews with managing partners, here are six 'thought starters' to reflect upon with respect to your leadership style and approach.

The amicable conflict solving between two or more parties, a procedure successfully employed in the USA and Europe, has determined the romanian society to perceive the advantages of the alternative means of conflict solving.

The Romanian lawgiver has applied mediation to the field of Criminal Law. Articles 67-70 in the Law 192/2006 comprise special provisions regarding mediation in the criminal cases, thus paying special attention to mediation in this field.

Summary of Recent Legal Decisions of Interest to the Equestrian Community

Capital Markets Board of Turkey (CMB) issued the new awaited communiqué regulating the mandatory principles set for publicly-open joint-stock companies which came into force on 19th March.

Comparative Analysis of the Philippine Arbitration Law and the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration (Part I)

Recent studies with numerous Law Enforcement Agencies reporting, indicates that home invasions are on the rise with an increase of reported robberies in this fashion. How to prevent yourself from being the next victim.

Any dispute arising from or in connection with this Contract shall be submitted to China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission for arbitration which shall be conducted in accordance with the Commission’s arbitration rules in effect at the time of applying for arbitration. The arbitral award is final and binding upon both parties.

China is no longer the ‘Sleeping Dragon’, but is now moving full fledged ahead as an undisputed economic force in the international market. With the world’s largest population at 1.6 billion and its increasing wealth there is no denying its tremendous consumer power.

Employment law in China is governed by a relatively comprehensive set of laws, more recently supplemented in late 2007 to strengthen workers’ rights.

Many court reporting agencies may tell you there are no experienced reporters & videographers in the Asia Pacific region. Introducing Legal Video Specialists in Australia, the leading legal videographers in the Asia Pacific region for over 15 yrs. We have experience in video & audio conferencing & use the latest High definition cameras & PZM conference flat or Levalier remote mics for excellent sound & vision. We work with & can advise on the best court reporter for your needs & location.

The Cour de cassation (French civil and commercial supreme court) has rendered a decision on the 26th of February 2008 (Commercial Chamber of the Cour de cassation – decision n°07/10761) regarding the liability of financial investments companies.

After spending all that time on researching your holiday home or retirement property purchase in the Land of Smiles, Thailand and with the stress of property negotiations and many a restless night, the end is within reach. All that needs to be done now is the transfer of property to your name at the Thai Provincial Land office.

Most of us have E-mail accounts that get attacked by spammers. These tips will help you reduce the amount of spam in your email.

India Patent Filing requirements

Nigerians have now had nearly nine years of government under the current Constitution. Many of its shortcomings were noticed as it came into force on the 29th of May 1999. Later, while in operation, a number of other deficiencies have come into view. At the inception of the Constitution, it was assumed that any controversies arising during its operation would be resolved through the judicial process.

The time limit for publications of national patent applications in Vietnam has changed. An official notice of the National Office of Intellectual Property concerning, among other things, the validity of Power of Attorney, was released. Additionally, a new circular has recently promulgated by the Ministry of Science and Technology relating to individuals/organizations involved in non-contentious activities against IPR infringement.

Top 10 questions to ask a divorce lawyer in the first consultation.

Psychological assessment is an invaluable and inestimable tool in the understanding of individual uniqueness. A comprehensive assessment helps explain the connection between psychological functioning and behavior. To be comprehensive, an assessment needs to examine a range of psychological factors.

How to choose a company name for your business in the Ukraine. Legal requirements and procedures.

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is an extension to the federal workers' compensation program which covers longshoremen and harbor workers. The DBA covers persons employed at U.S. defense bases overseas most notably, civilian contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan. The DBA is designed to provide medical treatment and compensation to employees of defense contractors injured in the scope and course of employment.

What are the main laws regulating real estate in Ukraine? What are legal restrictions on ownership of real estate by non-residents? Which parties are involved in a real estate transaction in Ukraine? These are the most frequently asked questions before investing in real estate in Ukraine.

In Georgia, employees who are hurt while at work are entitled to Workers' Compensation benefits. However, not all injuries are automatically covered by Workers' Compensation. This article covers such topics as - lunch break injuries, pre-existing conditions, psychological illnesses, off-work aggravation of work injuries, and other common work related injuries.

In Georgia, employees who are hurt while at work are entitled to Workers' Compensation benefits. One of these benefits is any medical treatments necessary to cure you, provide relief, or restore you to suitable employment. However, in return for this valuable benefit there are negatives including the loss of some medical privacy protections and limits on who you can receive treatment from. This article discusses the details of medical benefits under Georgia Workers Compensation.

In Georgia, employees who are hurt while at work are entitled to Workers' Compensation benefits. As far as cash benefits go, there are different types of benefits that an injured worker may be entitled to. These include benefits for when you are completely out of work, benefits for when you are earning less money because of your injury, and benefits for permanent damage to part of your body. This article discusses the types and calculation of these benefits.

In Georgia, employees who are hurt while at work are entitled to Workers' Compensation benefits. However, determining whether you are an "employee" under Georgia law can be complicated. Independent Contractors and other types of workers are not entitled to any Workers' Compensation benefits.

Choosing an attorney can be a difficult and sometimes random process. Ironically, in most cases, whether you have selected a good attorney will only be determined when the case is over. Armed with these five questions, you will be able to gain some insight into the type of attorney that you are hiring.

Guardians ad litem originate from a practice in the English Court of Chancery when the King, under his parens patriae powers, would appoint a guardian ad litem to protect the interests of the infant. Today, the court appoints child custody evaluators, (GALs) whenever it believes it necessary to protect the interests of a child in a judicial proceeding.

If the United States wants to prosecute a person for a transnational crime, it must first be able to find that person.

Protection given to Well-Known marks in Malaysia

A long expected legal document relating to individuals and/or organizations with competence in giving opinion on IPR infringement matters has just been promulgated in Vietnam.

It would be of high interest for worldwide patent practitioners and patent right owners that medical uses have recently been subject to rejection for patent protection in Vietnam. This writing is intended to provide readers with brief information concerning this development.

When deciding upon an expert one might want to consider the following questions: • Has the expert ever testified before? How many times? • How does the expert present in court? Is he well organized and is his thinking logical and easy to follow? • Is he a member of major professional organizations? • Does he employ well-known and generally accepted psychological tests?

Cross-examining mental health experts is often a difficult challenge for attorneys as they are un-familiar with the material. I will discuss the most commonly used psychological measures and key points to keep in mind when questioning experts, either in deposition or on the stand.

Used by the United States since 1795, extradition treaties remain the most common tool among nations for the surrender of individuals accused or convicted of criminal activity who are no longer found within the requesting country.

On 14 July 2006, the Hong Kong and PRC authorities announced the signing of the Arrangement on Reciprocal Recognition and Enforcement of Judgments in Civil and Commercial Matters by the Courts of the Mainland and of the Hong Kong SAR Pursuant to Choice of Court Agreements between Parties Concerned (“the Arrangement”).

En Belgique, la réforme du Code judiciaire applicable à l’expertise judiciaire qui fut votée en avril 2007 est d’application depuis le 1er septembre 2007. Après septe mois de pratique, cet article met en avant les principales nouveautés de cette loi et en tire de premiers enseignements.

Making false statements is a very serious crime. It is defined as "an untrue statement knowingly made with the intent to mislead." BLACK'S LAW DICTIONARY 1445 (8th ed. 2005).

Bank Fraud is the "criminal offense of knowingly executing, or attempting to execute, a scheme or artifice to defraud a financial institution, or to obtain property owned by or under the control of a financial institution, by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises." BLACK'S LAW DICTIONARY 685 (8th ed. 2005).

Like other forms of white collar fraud, the objective of accounting fraud is to accomplish a desired result by deception, trickery, concealment, and/or dishonesty.

Health care fraud is a serious crime which is investigated by the FBI's Financial Crimes Section [hereinafter FCS]. The mission of the FCS, in the FBI's words, "is to oversee the investigation of financial fraud and to facilitate the forfeiture of assets from those engaging in federal crimes."

The Nigerian Constitution

A conspiracy is "an agreement by two or more persons to commit an unlawful act, coupled with an intent to achieve the agreement's objective, and [often] action or conduct that furthers the agreement; a combination for an unlawful purpose." Black's Law Dictionary 329 (8th ed. 2005).

Architectural design Patent??

Update on Odex Anime case in Singapore

Wire fraud is an act of fraud using electronic communication. Black's Law Dictionary 687 (8th ed. 2005). This electronic communication can be via wire, radio, or television. 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (2007).

For the purpose of harmonisation with the Directives 2004/39/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on Markets in Financial Instruments (“the MiFID”), and Directive 2006/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of April 5 2006 Cyprus enacted on November 2007 the Law 144 (I)/2007 (“the Law”), that provides for the Supply of Investment Services, the Exercise of Investment Activities, the Function of Regulated Markets and other related issues”.

Most adults have driver’s licenses, and most adults get through life with their driver’s licenses intact. However, in the State of Illinois at any given moment more than 500,000 individuals have had their privileges to drive either suspended or revoked.

If estate assets are located in Germany, German probate law applies. The article gives an introduction to German probate law.

On December 21st, 2007, the Official Gazette, published General Resolution No 2,371 (the “Resolution”) of the Tax Authorities that provides that the seller of a property when negotiating, offering for sale or transferring (a) a property in Argentina, or (b) rights over a property to be built, shall inform the Tax Authorities, if the fiscal value of the property to be transferred, is equal or above AR$300,000 (three hundred thousand Argentinean pesos).

On November 9, 2007, the Official Gazette published General Resolution No. 519 (the “Resolution”) of the National Securities Commission (the “NSC”), which incorporates to the NT 2001 Norms (the “Norms”) new regulations for the creation of financial trusts and closed common investment funds for easing the financing of small and medium-sized undertakings (henceforth, “SMUs”).

On November 3, 2006, Resolution No. 13/2006 of the Public Registry of Commerce (the “Resolution”) was published in the Official Gazette. The Resolution comes to complete the relevant request for calling a shareholders’ meeting by members of the board of directors of local companies.

On October 24, 2007, the Official Gazette published General Resolution No. 2,325 of the Federal Tax Administration (the “AFIP”), and the General Resolution No. 5/2007 of the Public Registry of Commerce

National Commercial Court of Appeals had a plenary session (the “Court”) and render a ruling in the case “Giallombardo Dante Néstor vs. Arredamenti Italiani S.A. on ordinary proceedings”.

On October 26, 2007, the Official Gazette published General Resolution No. 4/2007 (the “Resolution”) of the Public Registry of Commerce (the “PRC”), applicable to companies constituted in other countries and registered in the City of Buenos Aires.

General Resolution No. 514 (the “Resolution”) of the National Securities Commission (the “NSC”), introduces new articles in Chapter XXVI of the Rules of the NSC (N.T. 2001) (the “Rules”), concerning information to be published in the Financial Information Highway.

On December 7, 2007, the Official Gazette published General Resolution No. 228/2007 (the “Resolution”) of the Financial Information Unit (the “FIU”), organization created by Law No. 25,546 on the punishment of Laundering Assets of Criminal Origin (“Law on Money Laundering”) for the analysis of suspicious operations within the financial Market, aiming to fight laundering of assets and financing of terrorism.

Courtroom E of the National Commercial Court of Appeals (the “Court of Appeals”) confirmed a ruling passed by the Court of First Instance which declined the request of a company’s trustee in bankruptcy to extend the bankruptcy to the company’s vice-president due to an alleged use of the company’s funds to his own personal benefit.

On October 23, 2006, Resolution No. 12/2006 of the Public Registry of Commerce (the “Resolution”) was published in the Official Gazette. The Resolution, adds to the Regulations of the Public Registry of Commerce (“Regulations of the PRC”) contained in General Resolution No 7/2005 (“Resolution 7/05”), dispositions on the application of the irrevocable contributions to cover losses in the local companies and limited liability companies, that receive this kind of contributions.

On December 27, 2006, the Supreme Court of Justice (the “Court”), in the case “Massa, Juan Agustín vs. National Government”, that refers to a complaint filed by an individual who had dollar deposits in a private bank prior to the enactment of Law 25,561 and Decrees 214/2002, 471/2002 and 905/2002 and all the other related rules that imposed the conversion into pesos of dollar deposits.

On October 26, 2006, Resolution No. 11/2006 of the Public Registry of Commerce (the “Resolution”) was published in the Official Gazette.

We briefly analyze the insolvency proceedings available to both companies and individuals in Argentina.

Franchise agreements are not prescribed by Ukrainian legislation, it (through the Civil Code and the Commercial Code of Ukraine) regulates commercial concession agreements that correspond to a single-unit franchise agreements.

The Free Zones, ruled in our positive law by the Law Nº 15921, are fenced areas of the national territory taken away from the Customs jurisdiction in which the merchandise that comes from foreign countries may enter without payment of duties and leave the country in the same way that they have entered, or after a process of production.

Parallel import means the import of goods from elsewhere for resale in Hong Kong. Different from pirated or counterfeited goods, they are manufactured by or with the authority of the intellectual property rights owners (eg trademark or copyright owner) and are legitimately produced and marketed abroad.

Pharmaceutical Patents are patentable (the Patent Office is forced to grant these kind of patents, as long as it satisfy the patentability requirements established in the Patent Act Nº 17.164) in Uruguay since November 1, 2001, although patent applications regarding pharmaceutical products could be filed from January 1st, 1995, according to the Mail Box provisions of TRIPS.

On July 10, 2007, the Uruguayan Senate approved the new Antitrust Act. It was later regulated by Decree Nº 404/007 of October 29, 2007. The purpose of the law is to promote and regulate competition in favor of consumers and users’ welfare, fostering economic effectiveness and equality for accessing markets.

Before the accession of Cyprus to the European Union, the Cypriot courts did not have jurisdiction to issue injunctions with extraterritorial effect. This principle was established by the Supreme Court in the Pastella Case.

Activities taken up by different Asian countries to eradicate copyright infringement.

Developments and new initiatives within the Philippines IP Office.

The Latest Developments in the Protection of Geographical Indications in Indonesia

What amounts to a Local Working Patent in India?

Cosmetic companies need to act now!

Vietnam’s Patent Regime – the old and new regulations

At a Glance – Trademark Practices in Vietnam: Your 2007 Update

Summary of Trademark Law in Cambodia

Thailand is the latest state to become a member of the Paris Convention and the PCT. This took place in January 2008

Got Engaged this Past Valentine’s Day: 7 Legal Issues to Address Before Saying “I Do”

A description of how a paternity suit proceeds in California.

A description of a California legal separation, and how to determine if it is right for you.

A desription of how the California divorce process works, from the filing of a divorce until the entry of judgment.

Portable media devices put companies at risk of data theft or loss.

Tourism investments in Uruguay, South America, has increased in the last years. This industry is increasing its participation, year after year, in the GDP of the country. Uruguay is regionally famous specially for the hundred of kilometres of beaches in its coast and the interest shown by international hotel chains to have presence in the country, especially in Montevideo, the well known beach resort Punta del Este and Colonia, close to Buenos Aires.

The Supreme Court recently recognized and established the jurisdiction of the Cypriot courts to issue discovery and disclosure orders - known as Norwich Pharmacal and Bankers Trust orders.

This article provides a short account of the Cyprus Republic (“Cyprus”) legislative guidelines (hereinafter the “guidelines”) in connection to publicity and the release of information and inside information when securities and financial instruments are offered to the public and/or admitted to trading on a regulated market. It should be noted that the present merely serves as an indicative supplement to the existing legal framework set below and it should be read closely together with the same.

The prohibition of financial assistance by a Cyprus company to purchase its shares or the shares of its holding company often stands as an obstacle in local and international acquisition finance transactions. However, expert legal advice may assist in providing alternative structures and solutions.

The following information is designed to help individuals facing credit card fraud prosecution.

The in-transit merchandise, if it is a counterfeit, shall and may be seized since, as it is in Uruguayan territory, law 17011 is applicable. The jurisprudence also shows that this position has been widely accepted by our Criminal Judges.

This year, California employers will pay nearly $15 billion for workers compensation insurance. Although premiums – the price insurers charge for coverage – have dropped by half in just four years, they remain a major expense and an occasional severe headache for many companies.

“Phrase”, according to the Spanish Language Dictionary, is the “group of words that are enough to make sense even when it does not constitute a formal sentence”. “Advertising Phrase” or “Slogan” is a phrase that is used to advertise or promote a product, a service, a political candidate, an organisation, etc.

In NY state, construction workers in the “trades” (carpenters, plumbers, electricians, steel workers, steamfitters, laborers, masons, painters, and every other trade) are protected under the “safe place to work” laws.

The Immigration and Nationality Act provides for K-1 nonimmigrant status for the alien fiance (or fiancée) of a US citizen who seeks to enter the US solely to complete a valid marriage within 90 days after such entry.

On December 21, 2000, the Legal Immigration and Family Equity Act (the "LIFE Act") became law. The LIFE Act extended K visa benefits to the spouse and unmarried minor children of U.S. citizens.

* Legal status in the United States with an investment of as little as $50,000.00 * General work permit for you or your spouse * Five year visa with unlimited period of renewal.

There is a special visa available for companies that wish to expand operations into the United States by opening a branch, a warehouse or an office. This visa, known as the L1 visa, is one of the most popular -- especially since it can lead to permanent residency -- and relatively easy to obtain with the right documentation and presentation.

Multinational business owners and executives are the elite, as far as the US immigration law is concerned. This is why they are classified as having the highest priority when it comes to US Permanent Residency. This article explores how owners and directors of foreign businesses may take advantage of this preference to secure permanent residency ("green card") status in the United States for themselves and their families in less than 2 years.

Since 1994 when I became an Assistant State’s Attorney for Cook County, I have been involved with persons charged by the State with violating the law.

As more and more business is conducted electronically, the legal community has become aware of the need to properly archive data that might be required as evidence in litigation. Computer forensics investigation certainly plays a key role in the electronic discovery process.

Organizations purchase computers and other electronic equipment to increase productivity and improve customer service — but that doesn’t mean that’s all the equipment is used for. Employees tend to assume a degree of “ownership” of the devices on their desktops, and use them to some extent for personal reasons.

On December 20, 2007, the Supreme Court of Florida ruled on The Florida Bar’s Motion for Reconsideration on the attorney advertising rules (Case No. SC05-2194). The court denied the Motion, but modified its order. The amendments to subchapter 4-7 of the Rules regulating The Florida Bar become effective on February 1, 2008 and apply to all lawyers who practice law in Florida, including out-of-state attorneys who advertise for business in the state.

A brief questionnaire covering the principal types of business organisations in Norway.

Moving overseas for love creates particular dangers when children are born overseas and a romance then falls apart. Expatriate parents may find that they are unable to take the kids back to a parent's home country. International child custody laws may create serious problems. International family lawyer Jeremy Morley explains.

A consumer is a user of goods and services; hence, every producer could also be termed as a consumer. However, conflicting interests have categorized them, inevitably, into two different groups.

It seems that the Greek governments of the last years have realized that it is in the interest of the Greek people and of the state that many foreign residents of Greek origin or even foreign people who happen to have business or real estate interests in Greece claim their inheritance shares over Greek properties.

Unlike mail fraud, bank fraud, or wire fraud, mortgage fraud does not have its own federal statute associated with it. However, that definitely does not prevent the federal government from aggressively prosecuting the crime under the title of "mortgage fraud.".

Patent, Patent rights in India, Patent in India, Rahul Dutta, Patent Attorney in India, PCT Application, National Phase PCT application in India, Intellectual Property Lab, Intellectual Property Appellate Board, International Patent System, Patentable Inventions, Prior Art in Patent, Monopoly rights in Patent, Non-obviousness, Patentability conditions.

A new beginning.

The total foreign investment into China for the first 9 months of 2007 amounted to about US $47 billion, an increase of 10.9% from 2006.

Election Petitions and the Courts

Brazil’s National Immigration Council (“NIC”) issued Resolution 60/04 on October 6, 2004, which supersedes Resolution 28 of November 25, 1998, with respect to the issuance of permanent visas to alien investors in Brazil. With this newer rule, the amount of an investment needed for obtaining a permanent residency in Brazil was lowered to $50,000 USD and this has become the easiest and fastest way of getting residency in Brazil.

Brazil is internationally known for its natural beauty, beaches, nice weather, carnival, music and culture. But now, it has become one of the most wanted countries for foreigners looking to acquire a second home, to live or retire, and also for people just looking to investing in real estate due to the reasons set above, along with the low value of its currency and very cheap real estate market.

“Banco Central do Brasil” is the government body that regulates and oversees all international money transfers coming in and out of Brazil.

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) makes it relatively easy for Americans to enter Canada as business visitors or to obtain work permits as intra-company transferees or NAFTA Professionals. One thing that NAFTA does not make easier is criminal inadmissibility.

Property development is one of the most lucrative businesses in UAE. Due to the influx of foreigners, demand for real estate properties is ever increasing. The UAE government has introduced new rules for developers, in order to secure the investors purchasing properties in UAE. All Developers are now required to be registered with the Dubai Lands Department, subsequent to which, escrow or trust accounts are required to be established with authorized banks of UAE.

NYD Law - We are a team of professionals with extensive experience in various areas of the civil law including Property, Commercial and Intellectual Property law. Our clients are individuals and companies from all over Europe and enjoy excellent professional service.

The mortgage is generally interest in land given to a creditor by the owners of a property as a guarantee for a loan.

As an attorney, any time you or your firm handles a case where health, illness, or injury is an issue you are going to need to review medical records. Whether you are a plaintiff or defense attorney, everyone needs to analyze and understand the contents of the medical record, and face it; they can be extensive and seem like a complex mystery.

In my previous article entitled "Construction Process Can Lead to Defects", I illustrated various aspects of how the construction process may well lead to defects.

Hong Kong like many other open economies is vulnerable to the problems caused by unsolicited electronic messages ("SPAM"). It is estimated that over 60% of all emails received in Hong Kong are UEMs and over 99% of the UEMs come from outside Hong Kong. Recipients of UEMs suffer the inconvenience of work interruptions, additional expenses like wasted fax papers and roaming telephone charges, additional time in sorting spam mails etc.

Real estate, government, intellectual property, international, privacy, immigration, trusts & estates, environment, employment and health care are projected to be the top 10 law firm practice areas of interest to the news media in 2008, projects law firm marketing consultant Margaret Grisdela. Plan accordingly!

Amendment of the NIgerian Constitution

Software is a product of human intellect and can be rightly termed as “intellectual property.” Considering the very vital role it plays in today’s world economy and development, protection of software is a very crucial issue. There has been a demand worldwide for the protection of software.

It is not any trade mark which is registrable, to be registrable the mark should be distinctive and should not be similar to any other trade mark registered for the same or similar goods or used by a competitor whether registered or not. In the case of a similar mark used by a competitor but not registered difficulties for registration will arise only if the owner of the mark chooses to oppose the registration.

Trade Mark s a visual symbol in the form of a word, a device, or a label applied to articles of commerce with a view to indicate to the purchasing public that they are the goods manufactured or otherwise dealt in by a particular person as distinguished from similar goods manufactured or dealt in by other persons. A person who sells his goods under a particular trade mark acquires a sort of limited exclusive right to use of the mark in relation to those goods.

The objective of the article is to find out the rational behind bringing out fashion design protection and finding the nature of Fashion Design in the field of IP and is there any need for the separate protection of fashion and how fashion design is different from the others? “In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”

In recent years, there has been an unprecedented expansion in the volume of foreign trade mark applications in Cyprus, revealing the increased importance of the Cyprus market for foreign economies.

One of the major challenges following a road accident is recovering damages for sustained injuries.

What is a trade mark? A trade or service mark is any sign that is capable to distinguish the goods or services of a company from those of others and can be represented graphically by words, characters, numbers, figurative elements, and combination of different colors, three-dimensional, sounds or any combination of these. Trade marks are valuable assets and therefore should be protected.

Invention patents and utility patents focus on the improvement of the function, technology adopted, manufacturing technique, users’ convenience, etc. of a product. However, the technical level of a utility patent is lower than that for invention patent.

Only licensed companies can develop the activity of promotion of games of luck and chance and other casino games in Macau, according with Administrative Regulation no. 6/2002.

1. What are the types of business vehicles?

Time was when court transcripts took weeks to deliver and those involved in legal proceedings had to rely on note taking to capture day-to-day courtroom action. Now judges, attorneys, jurors and litigants are driving demand for reliable court testimony and deposition records -- right at their finger tips, right before their eyes and right away.

By means of its developed Banking system, throughout liberal laws, Lebanon supports foreign investment and induces business-related corporations within the Lebanese Market.

Taxation in the Dominican Republic is governed by Law No. 11-92 of May 31, 1992, commonly known as the Tax Code (“Código Tributario”), its amendments and regulations (“Reglamentos”). This overview is a brief summary of the Tax Code’s most relevant provisions. All references in parentheses refer to articles in the Tax Code unless otherwise specified.

Under the law of Ontario a person appointed as attorney under a power of attorney over property is defined as a fiduciary who must conduct themselves with utmost good faith and loyalty to the beneficiaries. Consequently, the common law demands that there can be no conflict between the attorney’s personal interests and those of the beneficiary. The attorney is in breach of his fiduciary duty and liable if he takes any action to personally benefit by reason of his fiduciary duty.

This article canvasses Domestic Contracts & their enforcability in the context of estate litigation in Ontario Canada. Individuals often want to ensure that their estate planning is not susceptible to attack by their spouse. This often occurs in the context of second marriages and is inspired by children of the first marriage who wish to protect their inheritance. The legislation in Ontario gives its courts discretion to ignore the domestic contracts and provide support to the surviving spouse.

In Ontario Canada Lawyers who draft wills risk liability if the testamentary documents do not accurately reflect the testator's intentions. This problem can arise when the lawyer does not speak the same language as the testator and mistakes occur so that the intended beneficiaries do not receive their inheritance. This article reviews options to Ontario Lawyers when drafting Wills for clients who do not share a common language with their solicitors.

A common flash point in estate litigation are assets held in joint tenancy between the deceased and a child. That child claims the money or asset belongs to him by right of survivorship. The other children say that their parent only created the joint tenancy to be helped with their finances & the money belongs to the estate. This article examines the law in Canada and reviews two recent Supreme Court of Canada Decisions about joint tenancy and the presumptions of resulting trust and advancement.

The Need for a National Conference by Hon Justice O Oluwadare Aguda Akure, Nigeria, 5 December 2007

What is the difference between a lawyer referral network and an attorney's contact database? It's a good question, and one I was just asked the other day.

Daily Business Review Editor David Lyons said today that journalists are turning into "mobile journalists." Speaking at a legal media panel luncheon co-hosted today by the Legal Marketing Association South Florida City Group and the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators, "MoJo" reporters are becoming multimedia and videography experts as print newspapers turn increasingly to electronic communications.

Ever wonder how much attorneys are paying for their text ads on Google?

Treaty Investor visas ("E-2" visas) to the United States are authorized on the basis of treaties between the United States (U.S.) and approximately sixty other countries. The U.S. Embassy in London is responsible for processing E visas for all of the United Kingdom. Following are common questions that we frequently receive from nationals of the United Kingdom regarding this very popular visa.

The H-2B is a little understood temporary employment-based visa. Employers are often confused by the concept of temporary need, as defined by the relevant regulations, and face the daunting task of proving the unavailability of local labor. In the case of the construction industry, the task is made more difficult by union interference. This article attempts to clarify the H-2B requirements for employers, and makes general recommendations.

Five cases selected at random from our files that perfectly illustrate some of the dangers inherent in failing to consult with an immigration professional regarding employment of foreign nationals in the United States.

The relative strength of the British Pound against the US Dollar recently has led a large number of Brits to liquidate their assets in Britain and relocate to the balmy climes of such US states as Florida and California. Some have chosen to make the move as investors via the E2 Treaty Investor visa program. Others have made the move by establishing US subsidiaries of their UK companies and transferring themselves to the US as L-1A multinational executives.

The "Management Consultant" category is one of the most used visa categories under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). It is also the least understood category. This article explains what the CIS is looking for when considering a TN1 visa application in the Management Consultant category, describes some of the more common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

It is a common myth that individuals with a single criminal conviction are automatically inadmissible to the United States and require a waiver. In many such cases, a waiver is not required thanks to the "petty offense exception" found in section 212 of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act. This article illustrates the exception and sets out strategies for claiming it when entering the United States.

Ortega-Medina & Associates has conducted a thorough review of all published decisions in 2005 in which L1 visa renewal petitions were denied. This article is a discussion of the elements common to most of these cases.

In Hong Kong, if a company is dissolved following compulsory or voluntary liquidation, the court may declare the dissolution void on the application of any person interested within two years of the date of dissolution (Section 290(1) Companies Ordinance (Cap 32)). Such two year period may even be extended upon application under section 290(1A). Company¡¦s shareholders and directors may therefore not rest in peace even after a Company has been officially dissolved.

The job of an attorney service is to make the job of an employees of a law firm easier!

Choosing which type of legal entity to register is one of the most important stages before undertaking business activity in Russia. The type of legal presence will influence all activity, including financial and tax reporting, customs and currency control. Therefore, an investor should pay special attention to determining the appropriate corporate form which will help him achieve his goals while meeting all legal requirements.

Legal Basis for Intellectual Property Protection

Legislation on Immovable Property

The principal legal act regulating labor relations is the Labor Code of the Kyrgyz Republic. (72)

The Banking system of the Kyrgyz Republic consists of the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic (National Bank) and commercial banks.

Transactions in Foreign Currency

Financial Reporting Since 28 September 2001, International Standards of Financial Reporting issued by the International Accounting Standards Committee (London) are accepted as the financial reporting standards of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Taxation in the Kyrgyz Republic is regulated by the Constitution of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Tax Code of the Kyrgyz Republic, (42) specific laws, regulations, and instructions. The authorized agency responsible for the supervision of timely payment of taxes is the State Committee on Taxes and Duties of the Kyrgyz Republic.

It was more than 70 years ago that Schumpeter used the term “Tax Culture” in his celebrated article “Economic and Sociology of the Income Tax”.

The holiday season is upon us, which means lots of opportunities for social networking. Think of this as the perfect time to skillfully launch your 2008 personal marketing efforts. You don’t have to be the life of the party to attract serious business development opportunities on the social circuit; you just need to have a plan. Here is a simple five-step program you can easily implement.

Many contract attorneys (which at one time, included members of our staff) often balk at the seemingly large cuts that staffing agencies take “out of their paychecks”.

San Diego, Calif., October 24, San Diego based construction law firm, Scholefield Associates, P.C. has created a list of 10 “do’s and don’t’s” to help contractors survive the post-wildfire rebuilding process.

What does a process server cost you? Sometimes it is a lot more than you bargained for. An improper service of process can cost you valuable time, your reputation, your firm or sometimes millions of dollars. These are all reasons to deal with only reputable process servers and to make sure that all the paperwork is done correctly.

The fast, professional and reliable service of process from trained process servers is vital to the smooth operation of the legal system. The employment of process servers groomed in proper courthouse protocol and in the rules of service of process guarantees that there will be no undue procedural errors that could result in costly delays for attorneys and their clients.

The registration process begins filing an application before the Chilean Trademark and Patent Office, after in about one month; the Chilean PTO will make a preliminary examination to verify if the application complies with the formal requirements. Whether the application is in order its publication in the Chilean Official Gazette, otherwise it will make an observation.

The registration process begins filing an application before the Argentinean Trademark and Patent Office, after in about one month; the Argentinean PTO will make a preliminary examination to verify if the application complies with the formal requirements. Whether the application is in order its publication in the Argentinean Intellectual Property Gazette, otherwise it will make an observation.

The registration process begins with the filing of an application before the Ecuadorian Trademark and Patent Office. After approximately one month, the Ecuadorian PTO will make a preliminary examination to verify if the application complies with the formal requirements.

The registration process begins filing an application before the Industry and Trade Superintendence, Distinctive Signs Division, after in obout one month, the Colombian Trademark and Patent Office will make a preliminary examination to verify if the application complies with the formal requirements. Whether the application is in order its publication in the Colombian Intellectual Property Gazette, otherwise it will make an observation.

A Practical Approach to Resolving Business Disputes

Licensing is regulated by the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic “On Licensing”. This article is part of the Information and Reference Guide “Business in the Kyrgyz Republic: Legal Aspects” for potential investors planning to do business in the Kyrgyz Republic.

As of November 2007, Cyprus has been fully compliant with the Markets in (Financial Instruments Directive), known as MIFID. The legislation passed on 25 November 2007 and published in the Cyprus Gazette on 26 November 2007. The new law replaces the Investment Firm Law of 2002.

Since investments are a major prerequisite for economic development in the Kyrgyz Republic, investment legislation of the country is quite liberal. This article is part of the Information and Reference Guide “Business in the Kyrgyz Republic: Legal Aspects” for potential investors planning to do business in the Kyrgyz Republic.

After more than 2 years of consultation and redrafting, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress finally passed the new PRC Labour Contract Law (the "New Law") on 29 June 2007.

Branches and representative offices of foreign companies do not belong to legal entities of the Kyrgyz Republic. They are endowed with property of legal entities that have founded them, and act on the basis of the approved bylaws - This article is part of the Information and Reference Guide “Business in the Kyrgyz Republic: Legal Aspects” for potential investors planning to do business in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Visa and Registration Requirements - This article is part of the Information and Reference Guide “Business in the Kyrgyz Republic: Legal Aspects” for potential investors planning to do business in the Kyrgyz Republic.

The fame of a trade-mark will not prevent its use by third parties for different wares and services, the Supreme Court of Canada has now ruled. In two separate decisions released on June 2, 2006, Canada's highest court denied the appeals brought by the owners of the world famous Barbie and Veuve Clicquot trade-marks[1].

Despite requirements of businesses (either corporations, sole-proprietorships or partnerships) to register their business names with the relevant provincial or federal authorities, such registration, although legally required to carry on business, will offer no protection against trade-mark infringement allegations that could arise should the business name chosen be confusing with an existing trade-mark.

On February 14, 2007 the Ministry of Science and Technology promulgated Circular 01/2007/TT-BKHCN (Circular 01/2007) guiding in details procedures for the acquisition of industrial property rights at the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP) in light of new Intellectual Property Law (effective as of July 1, 2006) and Decree 103/2006/ND-CP (dated September 22, 2006).

Following national concern surrounding corruption in corporate institutions, scrutiny for wrong-doing swept from the private to the public sector. Attorney General John Ashcroft announced a campaign against corruption, and an expansion of the role of federal law-enforcement agencies. This campaign has engulfed well-known public figures like Vincent "Buddy" Cianci, and demonstrated that the government will use its resources to punish acts of public corruption.

Since its enactment in 1872, mail fraud has been a prominently charged federal offense. The statutes ease of application, flexibility, and breadth make it useable in virtually every variation of fraudulent activity. The essence of the mail fraud statute is an intentionally deceptive scheme or plan done in connection with the use of the U.S. mail or any private commercial carrier[1].

Investment fever: bank acquisition in Ukraine

Artist management is the most frustrating job in show business, I know, I've done it. Richard Schulenberg (Legal Aspects of the Music Industry)

Islamic banking is often thought to be financing the needs of the Muslim community only. In fact, it really refers to a system of banking activity that is consistent with Islamic principles and following the Islamic economics.

Intellectual Property (IP) refers to the rights granted by law in relation to the fruits of human creative activity. In the context of this policy, it includes copyright, all rights in relation to inventions, registered and unregistered trademarks, registered designs, and all other rights resulting from intellectual activity in the industrial, scientific, literary or artistic fields.

The publishing sector, much alike other sectors, was affected by the digital revolution, since most of the traditional publishers receive offers to publish, distribute, and market some of their special titles electronically: new technologies emerged and developed publishing such as electronic distribution, web-based publishing, print on demand and other new technologies.

The Top 15 Signs of Infidelity. Justin Hodson with Hodson and Associates explains the signs of a cheater.

The Intellectual Property Act No. 36 of 2003 which came into effect on the 12th November 2003 and regulations under section 204 of the Act published in Government Gazette no. 1445/10 of 17th May 2006 replaced the Code of Intellectual Property Act No. 52 of 1979.

The basic prerequisites for the approval of applications by non-EU nationals wishing to undertake a direct investment in Cyprus are highlighted by a recent circular by the Cyprus Central Bank, elaborating on the provisions contained in article 10 of the Capital Movement Law 115(I)2003.

What is the difference between a referral network and a contact database? It's a good question, and one I was just asked the other day. A referral network is a group of 5-10 professionals who have the ability to send you high quality business leads, while your contact database is a list of all your prospects and clients.

How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice. This old joke works because of its wisdom. Now that you have an audience, advance planning is essential to the success of your presentation.

The Environmental Law Institute (ELI), the American Bar Association’s Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (ABA-SEER), and the National Association of Environmental Law Societies (NAELS) announce the third annual “Endangered Environmental Laws” Student Writing Competition.

Buying and owning a property in Bulgaria is associated with paying relevant taxes just like when buying a property in the UK or any other country.

In recent years, Cyprus has become a popular place for the acquisition of holiday houses. This increase in demand is attributed to many factors: Cyprus' inherent beauties and attractive climate, low cost of living, hospitality of local population, low tax jurisdiction. Property booming had a particular effect at seaside locations, such as Ayia Napa, Protaras, Paphos, Limassol and Larnaca.

A trademark( ) is, in general, any sign, symbol or means that can distinguish products, goods and services of a specific merchant/service provider from those of his competitors.

You know the conferences where the movers and shakers in your industry meet to stay abreast of current events in the legal industry. Getting a seat on the podium will strengthen your position as a leading attorney in your field. It is never too early to start your quest for speaking engagements. Major annual events book their speakers a minimum of 6 to 12 months in advance. The sooner you get named as a speaker, the more publicity you will generate through advance promotion.

International adoptions in the Dominican Republic are governed by Law #136-03. All adoptions must be done through an official Dominican government entity called CONANI (“Consejo Nacional para la Niñez y la Adolescencia” - National Council for Children and Adolescents). Private adoptions are not possible under the Law. All children are assigned to the adopting parents by CONANI.

It is a matter of public policy in many countries that only their courts have the power to grant a divorce to their residents. A divorce obtained in a foreign jurisdiction would therefore be considered invalid. This principle is sometimes not considered applicable, however, in cases when both parties agree to the divorce.

Foreigners wishing to live or work permanently in the Dominican Republic are required to obtain residency status. Obtaining permanent residency in the Dominican Republic is a three-step process:

The most common business entity in the Dominican Republic is the corporation, locally called “Sociedad Anónima” (S.A.) or “Compañía por Acciones” (C. por A.). As corporations in other countries, Dominican corporations are legal persons which exist independently of its shareholders. Likewise, the liability of the shareholders is limited to the amount of their contribution to the corporation.

Labor relationships in the Dominican Republic are governed by Law No. 16-92 of May 29, 1992, commonly known as the Labor Code, which is characterized by its strong and sometimes inflexible protection of the rights of the individual employee.

Real estate transactions in the Dominican Republic are governed by Property Registry Law No. 108-05 and its Regulations, in force since April 4, 2007. Ownership of property is documented by Certificates of Title issued by Title Registry Offices.

An introduction to energy law in Bulgaria

Being a unique combination of an ancient people and a young developing state Republic of Armenia is currently becoming more attractive for foreign investors. That has been the reason for us to select regulation of foreign investments as the topic for the present short article.

If a designer has designed a teapot with a new shape and configuration and intends to manufacture his teapot according to his drawings in the future, how can he prevent others from infringing his design for profits? There are two possible ways in Hong Kong: registered design and copyright protection.

Service tax is levied on