Commercial law sits at the heart of every business relationship: a poorly drafted contract or a badly managed dispute can cost a company far more than legal fees. Cabinet Chevalier supports clients across the full life cycle of their commercial relationships in Haiti — from initial negotiation through to litigation or arbitration where necessary.
Every commercial contract is a form of protection. We draft and review sales, supply, services, distribution and franchise agreements — anticipating the friction points specific to the Haitian market: payment terms, currency, security interests, force majeure, governing law, choice of forum or arbitration clause. A precise contract avoids years of litigation.
When dispute is unavoidable, we represent clients before Haitian commercial and civil courts. Our work spans demand letters and payment orders through to fully contested proceedings, including conservatory attachments to protect the claim. We also handle cross-border recovery files.
Arbitration is now the preferred path for international commercial disputes involving Haitian parties. We advise both on drafting arbitration clauses upstream and on running the arbitration itself — before institutional bodies (ICC, AAA, LCIA) as well as in ad hoc proceedings.
French is the reference language for official documents and Haitian courts. A contract can perfectly well be in English, but in the event of litigation before a Haitian court, a certified translation will be required.
For an undisputed claim with a strong file, expect a few months for a payment order. A fully contested proceeding can take one to three years depending on the jurisdiction and any appeals.
Arbitration is private justice — confidential, generally faster, and well suited to international disputes. State courts remain essential for certain measures (attachments, enforcement) and cost less in upfront fees.
Yes — in international commerce, parties may choose the law that governs their contract, often New York, English or French law for cross-border deals. We systematically advise on the implications of that choice.
Bring us your commercial file. No-commitment first call.
Contact us