Business law in Colombia

Legal Framework

Independence of Justice

The judiciary is not independent and the country's judicial system is slow and plagued by corruption and extortion. However, considerable advances have been made in the promotion of transparency in the implementation of trade legislation.

Equal Treatment of Nationals and Foreigners

From a legal standpoint, foreign nationals can generally expect to be treated similarly to Colombian nationals, although some complaints to the contrary have been filed. For more information please contact your embassy.

The Language of Justice

Spanish

Recourse to an Interpreter

One is always permitted to be accompanied by an interpreter (contact your embassy).

Sources of the Law and Legal Similarities

The main basis of law in Colombia is the Constitution of 1991, partly based on Spanish law. Law is also based on the judicial review of legislative and executive acts. A new penal code, modelled on procedures in the U.S., was declared in 2004.

Checking National Laws Online

Consult the Library of Congress
Consult Colombian legislation on Lexadin