Ohara & Furukawa, Author at Ohara & Furukawa

October 7, 2016

What happens when heirs in Japan can’t decide what to do with inherited property?

Often the estate of a deceased will contain more than just money. In many cases, a car, boat, house or expensive jewelry will need to be distributed among the heirs. This can create a problem where each heir owns only a portion of an indivisible object, such as a car or home, and the heirs cannot decide what to do with it. Under these circumstances it is best if the heirs are able to agree to a voluntary settlement to share or sell the property.

October 5, 2016

What is an Arbitration Clause?

An arbitration clause is a clause in a contract that states that the parties will pursue arbitration in case of a breach of the agreement. This arbitration can take place after good-faith negotiations between the parties have failed or can be mandatory immediately upon any breach. Many businesses like to include arbitration clauses in their contracts because it simplifies the process of rectifying a breach. Arbitration can be cheaper and more expedient than litigating the breach in court and for contracts between international parties, pursuing arbitration can be a fairer means of settling a dispute than resorting to local courts.

October 3, 2016

Is it possible to sue someone for adultery in Japan?

In Japan, married couples have a legal obligation to remain faithful to each other. Therefore, if one spouse is unfaithful, both the unfaithful spouse and the cheating 3rd party, may have an obligation to pay damages to the non-cheating spouse. This is also true in the case of couples who are merely engaged rather than married, especially when the affair causes the breakup of the engagement.

September 29, 2016

How can I change my visa in Japan?

Japanese visas limit the time a foreigner is able to stay in Japan as well as the activities he or she may engage in. However, a foreign resident in Japan may apply to the Minister of Justice to change the status of their residence. This change may include changing the designated period of stay or the designated approved activities. It is within the Minister of Justice’s discretion to grant or deny this application based on the strength of the applicants submission.