As Costa Rica continues to attract retirees, investors, digital nomads, and expatriate families from around the world, legal professionals are seeing growing demand for bilingual guidance across immigration, real estate, and family law. Responding to this need, attorney Alberto Jara Rico leads a San José-based legal practice that combines decades of courtroom experience with English and Spanish legal services for both local and international clients.
The growing number of foreign residents establishing homes, purchasing property, launching businesses, or seeking residency in Costa Rica has increased the importance of legal counsel capable of navigating both the country’s legal framework and the communication needs of international clients. Through its team of bilingual attorneys in Costa Rica, Jara Rico provides legal assistance designed to help clients understand complex legal procedures without language barriers.
Leading the firm’s family law practice is Ricardo Montes Guevara, recognized as the author of Costa Rica’s Alimony Law (Ley de Pensión Alimentaria), one of the country’s most significant family law statutes. Working alongside him is Álvaro Ramírez Largaespada, who brings 33 years of experience in family law, including 25 years serving as a Family Court Judge. Their combined judicial and legislative experience provides insight into matters involving divorce, child custody, child support, and other family-related legal issues.
The firm’s legal team also includes Terry Steele, a bilingual attorney who earned a Juris Doctor from Florida International University in Miami, Florida. His academic and international background further supports the firm’s ability to assist English-speaking individuals navigating Costa Rica’s legal system.
Legal professionals note that many foreigners relocating to Costa Rica require guidance that extends beyond immigration procedures. Property acquisitions, business formation, estate planning, employment matters, and family-related legal issues often require coordinated legal support from attorneys familiar with both Costa Rican law and the practical challenges faced by international clients.
To address these needs, the firm provides dedicated legal services covering residency, visas, property transactions, corporate matters, criminal defense, labor law, and family law in Costa Rica. In addition, its dedicated legal services for foreigners in Costa Rica are tailored to expatriates, retirees, investors, and families seeking legal guidance while living or conducting business in the country.
According to the firm, bilingual legal representation has become increasingly important as international migration to Costa Rica continues to expand. Providing legal advice in a client’s native language can help reduce misunderstandings, improve decision-making, and create greater confidence throughout legal proceedings.
About Jara Rico
Jara Rico is a full-service law firm based in San José, Costa Rica, with more than 35 years of legal experience and over 15,000 cases resolved. The firm provides fully bilingual (English and Spanish) legal services across family law, immigration, criminal defense, corporate law, real estate, labor law, and notarial services. Jara Rico is a member of the Costa Rica Bar Association.