Panama Maritime Lawyer
At MYD we understand the importance of Maritime Law in Panama, one of the world's leading maritime hubs. Our specialized lawyers provide the counsel you need to operate successfully in this environment. We also advise on Aviation Law, a key field given the constant growth of the aviation industry.
At MYD we understand the importance of Maritime Law in Panama, one of the world's leading maritime hubs. Our specialized lawyers provide the counsel you need to operate successfully in this environment.
Any vessel owner —natural or legal person, regardless of nationality or domicile— may register their vessels under the Panamanian flag.
Maritime Law services: we assist shipowners and vessel operators in registering their vessels under the Panamanian flag, taking advantage of the benefits and tax advantages it offers. In Panama, vessels may be registered under Domestic or International Service, personally or through a corporation. We also handle the registration of vessels and yachts in other jurisdictions such as Belize, Bahamas, Liberia, Marshall Islands, British Virgin Islands and Cyprus. Purchase and sale of vessels and yachts, domestically and internationally. Navigation License. Radio License. Captain's License.
If you are involved in the maritime sector in Panama and need counsel, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to provide you with the representation and specialized advice you need.
In Panama, Aviation Law is a key field given the constant growth of the aviation industry. We have a team qualified to advise clients in the aviation industry on the development of their operations in Panama and on related commercial and corporate matters.
Aviation Law services: (1) aircraft registration and operation: we assist owners and operators with the registration and operation of aircraft in accordance with Panamanian and international regulations; (2) aircraft purchase and sale: we facilitate these transactions ensuring compliance with local and international aviation regulations; (3) aviation contracts and agreements: we draft and review contracts related to the aviation industry, including aircraft lease agreements and aviation services contracts.
Maritime and aviation counsel from Panama
Panama sits at the heart of global shipping: the Canal, its ports and one of the world's largest ship registries make it a key jurisdiction for shipowners, operators, lenders and logistics companies. Working with a Panama maritime lawyer lets you take full advantage of that position with legal certainty.
At MYD we handle vessel registration under the Panamanian flag, both provisional and permanent, as well as name and ownership changes, deletions, and the registration of ship mortgages and other liens. We set up the companies that own the vessels and coordinate with the Panama Maritime Authority and with Panamanian consulates abroad.
We draft and review ship sale and purchase agreements, charter parties, shipbuilding, management and port services contracts, and we represent clients in damage claims, collisions, maritime credit recovery and vessel arrests before the maritime courts.
On the aviation side, we advise on aircraft registration, purchase, lease and financing agreements, and civil aviation compliance. We work with clients worldwide, in English and Spanish, and coordinate the corporate, contractual and litigation aspects of each matter with our other practice areas.
Our work usually starts with a review of how the vessel or aircraft is owned and financed, so we can recommend the most efficient way to register it and protect both the owner's and the lender's interests. We liaise with surveyors, banks, insurers and ship agents, and keep you updated on every step in your language.
We also support logistics, port services and bunkering companies with their contracts and regulatory compliance, building on Panama's role as a regional connection hub.
Whether you manage a single yacht or a commercial fleet, we tailor our advice to the size and complexity of your operation, and we can act quickly when a vessel needs to change flag, refinance or resolve a claim while it is in transit.
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Frequently asked questions
Why register a vessel under the Panamanian flag?
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The Panamanian flag is recognized worldwide, the process is efficient, and it is open to owners of any nationality. We help you assess whether it is the right choice for your fleet.
Does the owner have to be Panamanian?
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No. Vessels can be registered to individuals or companies of any nationality. A Panama company is often used as the owning entity, and we can incorporate it for you.
Can you register a ship mortgage?
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Yes. We prepare and register mortgages and other liens over vessels, working alongside the lender.
Do you act in maritime claims?
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Yes. We represent shipowners, insurers, creditors and suppliers in claims, debt recovery and vessel arrests before Panama's maritime courts.
Do you also advise on aviation matters?
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Yes. We advise on aircraft registration, purchase and lease agreements, financing and civil aviation compliance.
Can you handle an urgent matter while a vessel is in transit?
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Yes. We know timing is critical in shipping, and we move quickly on the registry, contractual or court steps your vessel needs.
Let's talk about your matter
Tell us about your situation and we'll walk you through your options in an initial consultation, in person or remotely, in English or Spanish.
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