When people talk about child support, many believe it is a simple matter… until they have to face it themselves.
In practice, it is one of the most common conflicts in family law. Not necessarily because people intend to do things wrong, but because they are not clear about their obligations, what they can demand, or the consequences they may face.
There is something almost everyone does when starting a business, closing a deal, or entering into a partnership: they trust. They trust in someone’s word, in the relationship, in “good faith.” And for a while, everything works. No one thinks about contracts when things are going well… until they stop.
At Santana Ripoll & Assoc., it is very common to meet people who come in with the same idea: they want to adopt, but they don’t really know where to begin. And it’s not due to a lack of interest or intention, but because the adoption process is not always as clear as it may seem from the outside.
When a legal issue arises, many people quickly jump to one conclusion: “this needs to go to court.” It’s almost automatic. Justice is often associated with courtrooms, hearings, and a judge making the final call. But reality is more complex… and in many cases, very different.
Continue reading “Going to court isn’t always the best decision… and many realize it too late”
Getting married in the Dominican Republic—or investing while married—may seem legally straightforward. However, there is a key question that is often not asked in time: what really happens to assets within a marriage? Continue reading “Separation of Assets in the Dominican Republic: What Seems Clear… but Isn’t Always So”
When a foreigner faces a legal issue in the Dominican Republic, one of the first feelings that often arises is uncertainty. Not necessarily because of the severity of the situation, but because of something deeper: being in a system that is not your own. The rules are different, the processes are not the same, and what might be simple in your home country can take a completely different direction here.
Continue reading “The legal system in the Dominican Republic is not the same as in your country”
Failure to pay a debt is a common issue in both personal and business relationships. In the Dominican Republic, there are clear legal mechanisms to recover what is owed—but it is essential to act strategically and in a timely manner.
Below is a step-by-step guide on what to do if someone doesn’t pay you and how to protect your rights. Continue reading “What to Do If Someone Doesn’t Pay You a Debt”
The Dominican Republic has become one of the most attractive investment destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean. Its steady economic growth, political stability, and expanding real estate market make it an ideal opportunity for both local and international investors.
Below are the key reasons why investing in this country can be a smart and profitable decision. Continue reading “Why Invest in the Dominican Republic?”
Buying property in the Dominican Republic can be an excellent investment, but it also comes with risks if proper legal due diligence is not carried out. Verifying a property title is a critical step to avoid fraud, legal disputes, or financial loss.
In this article, we explain step by step how to ensure a property is legally sound before making a purchase. Continue reading “How to Verify a Property Title in the Dominican Republic”
The Law on the New Penal Code of the Dominican Republic, enacted on Sunday, August 3, represents a significant update to the country’s criminal framework, replacing the 1884 code. This law, which will take effect in August 2026 following a one-year grace period, seeks to modernize criminal legislation, align it with human rights, and adapt it to current social and legal realities. Below, we detail the key aspects of this law, based on available information:
Continue reading “Law on the New Penal Code of the Dominican Republic”