Japan: Legal Questions
Legal Counseling
Legal counseling in English is available in Japan, though on a limited basis. There is only a tiny number of lawyers in Japan compared to, say, the US, and of that precious few not many speak English.Some of the common reasons for seeking legal advice in Japan:
- Divorce
- Payment disputes involving employers/ex-employers
- Payment disputes involving ex-landlords (see our Accommodations section for details on "key money")
- Criminal cases.
Free Information
One way to get good (and free!) information on the law is by visiting you local ward office (KUYAKUSHO) and asking for advice/legal info. But if you don't speak Japanese, make sure you bring a bilingual friend!Arrested in Japan?
What to do if you're arrested in Japan?
What to do if you're arrested in Japan? First of all, if at all possible, avoid getting arrested (or doing things that may get your arrested). With a near-100% conviction rate, chances are, that one phone call you make (if they let you make it) won't do you much good.Different Process
But, the process of arrests and convictions is much different from "back home". In theory, the police do the research and detective work before actually making the arrest, to make sure that they've definitely got the "right man."72 Hours
Also, police are able to detain suspects for up to 72 hours without judicial proceedings, and that can be extended up to 20 days by a judge.Lowest Crime Rate
With some of the lowest crime rates in the world, Japan remains relatively safe, and you can still walk the streets at night without having to constantly watch your back.
Few Cops
Also, compared to most western countries, you don't see many cops around, and the vast majority of the ones that you DO SEE are either busy sitting in their Police Boxes or towing cars!Legal Questions: Other Sources
Forums
Questions/comments? Go to the Legal Forum
Links
- Ministry of Justice. For information on Japan's judicial system.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs. List of Embassies, Consulates and International Organizations in Japan
- Japan IP Resources. For information on Japanese intellectual property, e.g. patents, trademarks, designs, and copyrights.
- General Union. A legally registered Japanese labour union open to all nationalities. Primary mission is protecting workers' rights and improving working conditions.
- Human Rights Center Information Line. Legal advice in English or Chinese. Tokyo: TEL: 03-3581-2302.
- Nagoya International Center. Free legal advice in English, Chinese, Spanish and Portuguese. Nagoya: TEL: 052-581-6111.
