Our Attorneys

legal advice in san jose

Álvaro F. Sánchez

Litigation Lawyer & Notary with over 10 years of experience in criminal law, constitutional law, and notarial practice. Former Prosecutor Attorney (organized crime, fraud, and cybercrime), Legal Advisor to the Ministry of Justice, and Criminal Judge. Álvaro brings deep courtroom expertise and international academic credentials, holding degrees from Universidad de Costa Rica, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (Spain), and Universidad de Valladolid (Spain). Fluent in English and Spanish, he now manages the San José office of American Law Partners.

Litigation Lawyer & Notary
lawyers of costa rica

Terry Steele

Founder and Senior Partner of American Law Partners. Graduate of Florida International University School of Law, Miami (with Honors), Universidad Latina (with Honors), and Universidad San José Costa Rica (with Honors). A bilingual English–Spanish attorney with over 35 years of international business and legal experience, Terry specializes in real estate, corporate law, and notarial practice in Costa Rica. He works with North American investors, expats, and developers who need trusted legal guidance to buy property, structure businesses, and protect assets in Costa Rica. Clients rely on Terry for his deep knowledge of both U.S. and Costa Rican legal systems, his ability to identify and prevent fraud and legal risks, and his reputation for delivering clear, practical solutions that safeguard wealth and investments.

Bilingual Real Estate & Corporate Attorney in Costa Rica
attorneys

Bismarck Mata Avendaño

Attorney at Law, Head of the Río Claro Office of American Law Partners, strategically located in Puntarenas, Golfito, Río Claro (75 meters south of Colono Agropecuario). Graduated with Honors from both Universidad Autónoma de Centro América (UACA) and Universidad San José, Bismarck brings more than five years of experience in the Judiciary and private law firms. His practice covers a wide range of essential areas for both local residents and international clients, including Family Law, Civil Law, Labor Law, and Criminal Law. In addition, Bismarck has strong expertise in property transfers, real estate registration, vehicle transfers, succession proceedings, and inheritance matters. Known for his personalized approach and clear communication, he helps clients navigate legal processes with confidence and efficiency. His reputation in the Southern Zone is built on trust, accessibility, and professionalism, making him a valued resource for individuals, families, and businesses seeking reliable legal solutions in the Río Claro and Golfito regions.

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bilingual attorneys

Juan J. Acuña

Attorney Specialist & Notary Public, Head of the Heredia Courthouse Office of American Law Partners, serving the Heredia and Alajuela territories. He holds a Master’s Degree in Criminal Law from Universidad Latina de Costa Rica, and advanced specializations in Criminal Evidence Law (Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Spain), Advanced Criminal Law (Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Argentina), and Notarial and Registry Law (Universidad Internacional de las Américas). An international speaker on organized crime, anti-corruption, compliance, and anti-money laundering, Juan is also an honorary member of multiple judicial commissions in Costa Rica. With extensive expertise in criminal litigation, real estate, and notarial practice, he combines academic depth with practical courtroom experience. Frequently featured as a legal opinion contributor on Costa Rican television, Juan offers clients trustworthy, bilingual (English–Spanish) guidance on complex cross-border legal challenges.

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legal advisors in costa rica

José Pablo Venegas Hall

Attorney at Law and Criminal Defense Specialist at American Law Partners. Based in Costa Rica and serving clients nationwide, José Pablo focuses his practice on criminal litigation, fraud recovery, and complex defense strategies. He has developed a strong reputation for representing individuals and businesses in high-stakes criminal matters, including fraud, white-collar crime, and financial disputes. Known for his meticulous case preparation, courtroom strength, and practical recovery strategies, José Pablo is a trusted resource for both Costa Rican and international clients seeking justice and asset protection. Fluent in Spanish and minimal English, he ensures clear communication and effective representation for expats, investors, and corporations navigating Costa Rica’s criminal justice system.

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