Types of legal counsel
The right lawyer depends on what you need. Cayman has large international firms and smaller local practices — each suits different situations.
- Property conveyancing: medium/small local firms are usually best for residential purchases. More personal service, competitive fees.
- Immigration: specialized immigration lawyers handle work permit issues, residency applications, and status matters.
- Corporate: large international firms (Walkers, Maples, Harneys) handle complex corporate and fund structures.
- Estate planning: important for high-net-worth relocators. Wills, trusts, and succession planning.
- Litigation: if you need to resolve a dispute. Choose based on the specific area of law.
How to choose
For most relocators, you need a property lawyer first and potentially an immigration lawyer second. The rest can wait.
- Ask for recommendations from your real estate agent, employer, or other expats — but verify independently.
- Always use YOUR OWN attorney for property purchases — never use the seller's attorney.
- Get a fee quote in writing before engaging. Ask whether it is fixed or hourly.
- Check the Cayman Islands Law Society for registered practitioners.
- Budget: $5,000-$15,000 for residential conveyancing. Immigration matters vary widely.