Our Practice Areas
Intellectual Property
Protecting your innovations, brands, and creative works is vital in today’s competitive market. At Lam Attorneys Inc, we help you secure patents, trademarks, and designs, offering comprehensive services from filing and prosecution to enforcement and litigation.
Did You Know? A South African trademark registration lasts 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely, providing long-term brand protection if managed correctly.
Tip: Monitor the market regularly for counterfeits or infringement to maintain your rights and market reputation.
Incorporation & Compliance
Navigating the intricacies of business setup can be daunting. Our attorneys specialize in guiding domestic and foreign clients through every stage of company formation, structuring, and ongoing regulatory compliance in South Africa.
- Did You Know? Over 650,000 companies face deregistration each year due to non-compliance - filing annual returns on time and meeting CIPC requirements is crucial to stay active.
- Tip: Maintaining thorough records of company resolutions, beneficial ownership, and shareholder agreements can prevent legal complications down the road.
Due Diligence
Before entering significant business transactions - like mergers, acquisitions, or major investments - thorough due diligence is essential. Our team examines financial records, legal structures, compliance status, and operational risks, enabling you to make informed decisions and mitigate potential liabilities.
- Did You Know? Proper due diligence can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected debts, legal disputes, or hidden liabilities.
- Tip: Begin your due diligence process well before final negotiations to allow ample time for comprehensive reviews and strategic adjustments.
Contracts
Robust contracts form the backbone of successful business relationships. We draft, review, and negotiate agreements covering employment, partnerships, sales, and more.
Did You Know? Vague or overly broad clauses often lead to disputes or enforcement issues down the road.
Tip: Regularly review your contracts to reflect new regulations, market conditions, or changes within your organization.
Tax
Tax laws can be complex and ever-changing. Our firm offers strategic counsel on corporate and personal tax matters, ensuring you remain compliant while optimizing your financial position.
Did You Know? Penalties for serious tax non-compliance can reach up to 200% of the owed amount.
Tip: Early planning on VAT registration and corporate structures can save significant time and money.
Labour Law
Employment relationships require a balanced approach that respects both the rights of employees and organizational needs. We guide clients through contracts, dispute resolution, disciplinary processes, and compliance with acts like the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) and Labour Relations Act (LRA).
Did You Know? Non-compliance with labor laws can result in substantial fines and reputational damage for businesses.
Tip: Implement clear internal policies and regular training sessions to maintain a fair, compliant workplace culture.
Immigration and Work Permits
South Africa’s strategic location and allowance for 100% foreign ownership make it a prime destination for international talent and investments. We assist with visas, work permits, and permanent residency applications.
Did You Know? Delays in paperwork often stem from incomplete forms or missing documentation—be thorough from the outset.
Tip: Begin the application process well in advance to avoid disruptions to your business or travel plans.
Antenuptial Contracts (ANC) and Divorce
Planning for the future is an act of care for loved ones. We draft wills, manage deceased estates, and ensure assets are distributed as intended.
- Did You Know? Without an ANC, you’re automatically married in community of property, affecting assets and debt responsibilities.
- Tip: Review your marital agreements periodically, especially if property or financial circumstances have changed.
Wills and Deceased Estates
Planning for the future is an act of care for loved ones. We draft wills, manage deceased estates, and ensure assets are distributed as intended.
Did You Know? It’s advisable to update your will after major life events like marriage, divorce, or childbirth.
Tip: Keep your will in a secure yet accessible place, and let key family members or executors know where it’s stored.
Conveyancing
Whether buying, selling, or transferring property, our conveyancing team handles title deed registrations and related paperwork, ensuring a smooth, legally sound process.
Did You Know? South Africa’s deeds registration system is one of the oldest, helping to reduce property fraud when followed correctly.
Tip: Always conduct a comprehensive title search to uncover liens, servitudes, or boundary disputes early on.
Authentication and Apostille
For documents to be recognized in foreign jurisdictions, proper authentication or apostille is often mandatory. We ensure your legal documents meet both South African and international standards, streamlining cross-border transactions.
Did You Know? South Africa is a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention, simplifying document legalization for many countries.
Tip: Arrange apostilles early to avoid last-minute delays, particularly if working under strict international timelines.
Sworn Chinese/English Translation
When legal documents need official recognition in Chinese or English, our sworn translators ensure precise, authorized translations. This service is crucial for cross-border transactions, visa applications, intellectual property filings, and more.
- Did You Know? South Africa’s sworn translators must be formally sworn in by the High Court and follow strict quality protocols.
- Tip: Schedule translation tasks early—especially if dealing with voluminous or highly technical documents—to avoid potential bottlenecks.
Final Thoughts
Lam Attorneys Inc. delivers integrated, client-focused solutions—from IP protection and cross-border compliance to due diligence and sworn translations—so you can concentrate on growing your business. Ready to navigate South Africa’s dynamic legal landscape with confidence? Contact us today to learn how our personalized approach and in-depth expertise can support your success.