Practice areas
Maritime and Admiralty Law
Maritime and Admiralty Law is the cornerstone of excellence at VeraLaw, reflecting unparalleled expertise and an unwavering commitment to our clients’ success. We proudly bear the prestigious accolade of the Best Transportation and Logistics firm in the Philippines by the Asian Legal Business Awards, and have also been recognised as the Best Maritime firm in the Philippines by the Asia Business Law Journal which solidified our position as a leading authority in Maritime law in the region. VeraLaw stands as the foremost authority on Shipping Law in the region and has contributed significantly to the field by crafting the Shipping Law Review section for the Philippines for the past decade, establishing itself as a prominent thought leader in Maritime law.
As a leader in the practice of Maritime law, we take pride in our unmatched proficiency across a broad spectrum of services.
Vessel Operations: Our firm is celebrated for providing unparalleled legal guidance on ship navigation, management, and safety regulations. We set the gold standard for compliance with international maritime standards and the development of cutting-edge internal safety protocols.
Maritime Contracts: Widely recognized for our prowess in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating maritime contracts, we establish the benchmark for meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to relevant laws and regulations, safeguarding our clients’ interests with unparalleled precision.
Marine Insurance: Hailed as the epitome of excellence in marine insurance matters, we offer unparalleled expertise in navigating complex claims processes and securing maximum compensation for damaged or lost cargo, supported by our unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.
Maritime Personal Injury: Revered as the foremost advocate for individuals affected by maritime personal injury incidents, our firm boasts an unmatched track record of securing justice and maximum compensation for our clients. We navigate intricate legal landscapes with unparalleled finesse and expertise.
Maritime Environmental Law: Globally renowned for our pioneering work in maritime environmental law, we spearhead initiatives to ensure compliance with the most stringent environmental regulations, including the esteemed MARPOL convention, and lead efforts to safeguard our oceans for future generations.
Salvage and Towage: At the forefront of maritime salvage and towage operations, our firm is widely acclaimed for our unparalleled legal counsel and strategic guidance. We seamlessly integrate salvage operations with environmental protection and disaster management initiatives to achieve unparalleled results.
Maritime Disputes and Litigation: Recognized as the preeminent authority in maritime dispute resolution, our firm boasts unparalleled expertise in navigating complex legal challenges through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. We consistently deliver unparalleled outcomes for our esteemed clients.
Maritime Regulatory Compliance: Revered for our unmatched proficiency in assisting clients in navigating the intricate web of national and international maritime regulations, we set the standard for excellence in safety standards, pollution prevention measures, and port state control requirements.
Intellectual Property
One of VeraLaw ‘s core practice areas is Intellectual Property law. Our Intellectual Property practice is all encompassing, it includes copyright, patents and trademark. We notably specialize in trademark enforcement and litigation. This specialization involves various aspects of trademark protection and defense against infringement. We handle opposition and cancellation actions against third-party trademarks, safeguarding our clients’ intellectual property rights. We offer strategic legal counsel on the protection of these rights, which includes responding to cease and desist notices, conducting thorough availability searches to ensure trademark uniqueness, handling the registration and maintenance of trademarks, overseeing the recordal of assignment, mergers, and corporate name changes, and conducting comprehensive trademark audits and due diligence.
Beyond trademark and copyright registration, the firm provides legal and practical guidance on a range of intellectual property matters. This includes trade secrets, licensing, franchising, confidentiality, non-disclosure, distributorship, assignment, and other agreements involving intellectual property rights. The firm also assists clients in the recordal of trademark licensing agreements and other technology transfer agreements.
Trademark and Copyright
VeraLaw plays a pivotal role in managing trademark portfolios for both local and international clients. Currently, VeraLaw handles over 7000 local marks. This encompasses a wide range of industries and products. We have been entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the trademark assets of clients all over the world. This extensive portfolio management has led to the keen understanding of each industry’s unique requirements and regulatory considerations to ensure the protection and value of our’ clients’ intellectual property assets. We represent a diverse portfolio of clients from a vast variety of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, courier services, automotives, software, media and entertainment, aviation, personal and household products, fashion, consumer products, footwear, telecommunications, and real estate, among others. The firm aims to provide customized legal solutions to meet the unique needs and goals of each client.
We consider our clients as active partners in safeguarding their intellectual property rights. In order to cultivate and enhance these active partnerships, and having analyzed the specific needs and requirements of our clients VeraLaw has developed a specialized database management program that offers clients a convenient way to access and monitor their trademark assets. The firm’s program includes a calculator that can determine critical deadlines, such as the submission of the Declaration of Use and the Application for the renewal of trademark registration. This program serves as a valuable tool, allowing clients to stay informed about their marks and manage upcoming deadlines effectively. Through this program, the firm takes a proactive approach to monitor markets for counterfeit products.
We recognize the immense value of a company’s trademarks and their direct impact on the success of their products. Our proactive approach involves constant market monitoring for counterfeit products and our dedicated team diligently reports their findings to clients. In the event of counterfeit products, the firm advises clients on the most suitable legal, practical, and commercial strategies to combat counterfeiters. This may involve sending cease and desist letters, initiating opposition and cancellation proceedings on behalf of clients, and litigating trademark and copyright infringement and unfair competition cases. In essence, the firm’s approach is to ensure clients are well-informed and protected when it comes to enforcing their intellectual property rights.
Foreign Filings
Our specialist foreign fillings team, within the Intellectual Property department manage and maintain over 250 registered trademarks all over the world for local and foreign clients such as Oriental and Motolite Marketing Corporation, Mober, LBC Development Corporation, Yokohama Industries Berhad, Supercharge Batteries Pty. Ltd., Century Yuasa Batteries Pty. Limited, Century Motolite Sdn Bhd, Marshall Power Australia Pty Ltd., KLG International Inc., Prime Asia Consolidated Products Corporation. The firm on average conducts research for over 190 clients in a year.
Patents
Litigation
Our litigation team is comprised of seasoned trial attorneys with a wealth of experience representing clients at forums across the Philippines. We approach each case with a strategic mindset, meticulously preparing for trial while also exploring opportunities for settlement or other forms of resolution whenever possible.
Furthermore, VeraLaw is committed to staying at the forefront of legal developments and best practices in litigation. We invest in ongoing training and professional development for our attorneys to ensure that we are equipped with the latest tools and strategies to effectively advocate for our clients in even the most complex legal disputes. Whether our clients are facing a high-stakes commercial litigation matter, a contentious employment dispute, or a challenging intellectual property infringement case, they can trust our litigation team to provide the steadfast representation and strategic counsel needed to achieve a successful outcome.
At VeraLaw, we understand that each legal dispute is unique, and we tailor our approach accordingly to meet the specific needs and objectives of our clients. With our unwavering dedication to excellence and a proven track record of success, we stand ready to advocate tirelessly on behalf of our clients, both inside and outside the courtroom.
Dispute Resolution
In addition to our robust litigation practice, VeraLaw excels in the realm of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), particularly through arbitration and mediation. Recognizing that litigation can often be time-consuming, costly, and adversarial, we leverage our expertise in ADR to provide our clients with efficient, cost-effective, and collaborative methods of resolving disputes.
Collaborative Approach: At the heart of our Dispute Resolution practice is a commitment to collaboration and client-centered advocacy. We work closely with our clients to understand their goals, interests, and concerns, and we tailor our strategies to align with their unique priorities. Whether our clients are navigating complex commercial disputes, employment conflicts, or contentious contractual disagreements, we provide the guidance, support, and advocacy they need to achieve favorable outcomes through arbitration and mediation.
Efficient and Effective Resolution: By offering a comprehensive suite of Dispute Resolution services, including arbitration and mediation, we empower our clients to resolve disputes in a manner that is efficient, cost-effective, and conducive to preserving ongoing relationships. Our firm’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and client satisfaction sets us apart as a trusted partner for individuals and businesses seeking alternative avenues for dispute resolution.
Arbitration
VeraLaw boasts a distinguished track record in arbitration proceedings, serving as a trusted advocate for clients around the world seeking to resolve disputes outside the traditional courtroom setting. Whether through ad-hoc or institutional arbitration processes, we guide our clients through every step of the arbitration process, from drafting arbitration agreements to representing their interests during hearings. Our attorneys are skilled in navigating the complexities of arbitration rules and procedures, ensuring that our clients’ rights are protected, and their objectives are pursued with diligence and efficiency.
Mediation
We also specialize in mediation, a voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral third party facilitates communication and negotiation between disputing parties to reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Our experienced mediators work diligently to create a collaborative environment where parties can openly discuss their concerns, explore potential solutions, and ultimately craft agreements that address their interests and concerns. By fostering open dialogue and creative problem-solving, we help our clients achieve outcomes that are tailored to their specific needs and objectives.
Corporate and Business Law
VeraLaw’s Corporate and Business Law practice is integral to facilitating the influx of foreign investments into the Philippines. We specialize in advising foreign clients on the establishment of proper corporate structures that enable them to conduct business in the country while maximizing the tax benefits afforded by Philippine laws. Through our expertise, we ensure that our clients navigate the regulatory landscape seamlessly, positioning themselves for success in the local market.
Corporate Governance: We assist our clients in establishing and maintaining robust corporate governance structures that promote transparency, accountability, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Our attorneys provide guidance on board composition, fiduciary duties, shareholder rights, and other corporate governance matters, ensuring that our clients operate with integrity and confidence.
Transactional Matters: Our firm has extensive experience in handling a wide range of transactional matters, including mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, joint ventures, strategic alliances, and corporate restructurings. We work closely with our clients to identify their strategic objectives, assess risks, negotiate favorable terms, and execute transactions efficiently and effectively. Whether our clients are seeking to expand their business through acquisitions, raise capital through debt or equity financing, or enter into complex commercial agreements, our attorneys provide the expertise and support needed to navigate the transactional landscape with confidence.
Regulatory Compliance: In an increasingly complex regulatory environment, we help our clients navigate the ever-changing regulatory landscape of corporate and business law. Our attorneys stay abreast of developments in relevant laws and regulations, providing proactive advice and counsel to ensure that our clients remain compliant with their legal obligations. From corporate filings and disclosures to industry-specific regulations and compliance programs, we assist our clients in mitigating risk and maintaining a competitive edge in their respective markets. We work regularly with various government agencies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Board of Investments (BOI), and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) to help clients uphold their good standing and operate with confidence in the Philippine market.
Client-Centric Approach: At the heart of our practice is a commitment to understanding our clients’ unique needs, goals, and challenges. We take a collaborative and client-centric approach to every matter, working closely with our clients to develop tailored solutions that align with their strategic objectives and business priorities. Whether providing day-to-day legal advice, negotiating complex transactions, or representing clients in corporate disputes, our attorneys are dedicated to delivering practical, results-oriented legal solutions that drive our clients’ success.
Taxation
VeraLaw offers an extensive array of business taxation services which cater to corporations, partnerships, individuals, cooperatives, trusts, decedent’s estates, and foreign investors conducting business in the Philippines. Our distinguished tax practice spans the spectrum of tax-related needs, from procuring rulings to navigating disputes with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and other tax authorities. With expertise that extends to representation in court, we provide unparalleled assistance, ensuring our clients’ tax matters are handled with precision and excellence.
Labour Law
VeraLaw’s Labor Law practice offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to address all aspects of labor administration, labor standards, and labor relations. Clients can rely on our seasoned attorneys for sound counseling and expert legal representation in navigating the complexities of labor law. From advising on the terms and conditions of employment to handling grievance procedures, we provide tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of employers across various industries.
Moreover, our commitment extends beyond mere legal counsel; we collaborate closely with management to strategize and mitigate sectoral risks. By leveraging our deep understanding of labor law and industry-specific nuances, we assist clients in developing proactive measures to maintain productivity and foster constructive labor relations within their organizations. Our proactive approach to labor management helps safeguard our clients’ interests while promoting a harmonious work environment conducive to business success.
Our services encompass a wide array of areas, including:
Labor Standards: We provide guidance on terms and conditions of employment, ensuring compliance with labor standards regulations to protect both employers and employees.
Labor Relations: Our team handles grievance procedures, work stoppages, and representation issues, fostering constructive labor relations within the organization.
Pre-Employment Matters: We advise on hiring practices to help employers establish fair and legally compliant recruitment processes.
Post-Employment Matters: From dismissals to separation benefits, we assist clients in navigating post-employment issues while safeguarding their interests and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
Insurance
At VeraLaw we pride ourselves on our comprehensive Insurance Law practice, dedicated to providing unparalleled expertise and unwavering support to our clients in navigating the complexities of the insurance industry. With a deep understanding of insurance regulations and a commitment to delivering innovative solutions, we offer a wide range of services tailored to the needs of insurers, and reinsurers alike.
Our Insurance Law practice covers a broad spectrum of areas, including insurance coverage disputes, policy review, regulatory compliance, and risk management. Whether our clients are facing disputes over coverage terms, interpretation of policy language, or claims handling practices, our seasoned attorneys are equipped to provide strategic guidance and excellent representation to protect their interests. We assist insurers and reinsurers in drafting and reviewing insurance policies to ensure clarity, compliance with regulatory requirements, and alignment with the client’s business objectives. Our goal is to provide value to clients by effectively managing risk in relation to their insurance policies.
In addition to transactional and advisory services, we offer representation in insurance-related litigation and alternative dispute resolution proceedings. Our litigators have a proven track record of success in defending insurers against coverage disputes, bad faith claims, and other insurance-related matters in and out of court.
Furthermore, VeraLaw stays at the forefront of developments in insurance law and regulation, providing clients with proactive guidance on emerging trends, legislative changes, and regulatory developments. We work closely with clients to develop compliance programs, risk management strategies, and best practices to navigate the evolving insurance landscape effectively.
Our Insurance Law practice is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions to our clients across various sectors. With our depth of experience, industry knowledge, and commitment to excellence, we are proud to serve as trusted advisors and advocates for insurers, reinsurers alike, helping them navigate the complexities of insurance law with confidence to achieve their business objectives.