Our Practice Areas
Legal representation that blends precision, professionalism, and care.
Explore our six core areas of practice - each handled with the competence and clarity our firm is known for.
Sub-Areas Covered:
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Contract disputes & breach of agreement claims
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Corporate & shareholder disputes
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Debt recovery & enforcement of judgments
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Negligence
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Employment & industrial relations disputes
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Family law
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Injunctions & judicial review matters
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Defamation & reputation management
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Commercial fraud, tracing & asset recovery
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Mediation & settlement negotiation
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Appeals to the Court of Appeal or Privy Council
Commercial & Civil Litigation
In Plain Terms:
When conflicts arise between individuals, companies, or institutions, our litigation team represents your interests before the courts. From contract disputes to injunctions to family, we bring structure and strategy to even the most complex cases.
If You Hire Us:
We’ll begin by understanding your goals and reviewing the facts of your matter. Then we’ll design a litigation strategy built to protect your position, communicate clearly on every development, and advocate with precision in every courtroom appearance.
Your First Step:
Start Your Matter and briefly describe your dispute. Our team will assign the attorney best suited to your case.
Sub-Areas Covered:
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Purchase & sale of residential and commercial property
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Land registration & title transfers
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Subdivision, development & strata matters
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Conveyancing & mortgage preparation
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Lease drafting and tenancy disputes
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Real estate due diligence and property verification
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Developer agreements and joint ventures
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Probate-related property transfers
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Real estate investment guidance for overseas clients
Real Estate & Property Law
In Plain Terms:
Whether you’re buying, selling, or developing property in Jamaica, we handle the legal details to make your transaction smooth and secure. We also serve the Jamaican diaspora, helping clients manage property and real estate interests from abroad. We know that trust and confidence is important along with communication and updates. We will keep in touch and act professionally.
If You Hire Us:
We’ll review your documents, verify titles, and handle contracts, payments, and filings with efficiency and care. You’ll always know what’s happening and when - even from overseas.
Your First Step:
Your first step begins with a consultation.
If your client relationship starts with a one-hour paid consultation, then during this meeting, your attorney will:
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Review the details of your case.
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Advise on possible next steps.
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Outline the legal process and billing approach for your matter.
Sub-Areas Covered:
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Drafting & execution of wills
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Probate applications and letters of administration
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Estate administration and asset distribution
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Executor and trustee support
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Contentious probate and will disputes
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Enduring powers of attorney
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Succession planning for individuals and families
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Guardianship and minor beneficiary protection
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Estate tax guidance and compliance
Wills, Probate & Estate Management
In Plain Terms:
Estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated. We help clients prepare wills, manage probate applications, and administer estates with sensitivity and legal precision, so your legacy is protected and your loved ones are supported.
If You Hire Us:
We’ll discuss your family and property situation, draft or review your will, and prepare all necessary filings. For probate, we’ll guide you step by step from document collection to completion.
Your First Step:
Start Your Matter and indicate whether you need help preparing a will or managing an estate.
Sub-Areas Covered:
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Employment contract drafting & review
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Wrongful dismissal & unfair termination claims
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Workplace harassment and discrimination cases
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Disciplinary hearings and investigations
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Labour relations and collective bargaining
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Severance pay and redundancy disputes
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Employment law compliance for companies
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Representation before the Industrial Disputes Tribunal (IDT)
Labour & Employment Law
In Plain Terms:
We advise both employers and employees on workplace rights, contracts, and disputes. Whether you’re managing terminations, reviewing contracts, or facing unfair dismissal, our goal is to help you find resolution with clarity and respect.
If You Hire Us:
We’ll assess your situation, outline your options under Jamaican employment law, and guide you through negotiation, mediation, or court action where necessary. Every case is handled with confidentiality and fairness.
Your First Step:
Start Your Matter and share a short summary of your employment concern.
Sub-Areas Covered:
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AML/CFT program design & implementation
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Compliance policy drafting and updates
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Risk assessments for designated non-financial businesses
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Internal audits and regulatory reporting
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Staff training & certification
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Preparation for regulatory inspections
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Sanctions compliance and risk management
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AML advisory for law firms, financial institutions & real estate professionals
AML/CFT Compliance & Training
In Plain Terms:
For businesses operating in regulated sectors, Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing compliance is not optional, it’s essential. We help you stay ahead of your regulatory obligations with clarity and confidence.
If You Hire Us:
We’ll review your organization’s policies, assess your current compliance level, and create or refine your AML/CFT framework. We also provide custom training for your staff and leadership team.
Your First Step:
Start Your Matter and tell us your industry and type of compliance support needed.
Sub-Areas Covered:
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Mediation (civil, commercial, family, and employment disputes)
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Arbitration and negotiated settlements
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Conciliation and facilitation sessions
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Contractual dispute resolution clauses
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Case strategy and pre-litigation mediation
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Neutral evaluation and expert determination
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Drafting and enforcement of settlement agreements
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
In Plain Terms:
Court proceedings aren’t the only way to resolve a dispute. Through mediation or arbitration, we help parties reach fair, efficient solutions - often faster and with less stress than traditional litigation.
If You Hire Us:
We’ll guide you through the ADR process - whether as mediators or as your representatives - ensuring your rights are protected while preserving valuable relationships.
Your First Step:
Start Your Matter and indicate that you’re seeking mediation or arbitration services.
Don’t see your matter listed?
We handle a broad range of civil, commercial, and regulatory matters beyond these core areas. If you’re unsure whether your situation fits, reach out.
We’ll review your case and advise whether we’re the right firm to assist, or connect you with a trusted colleague who is.
At HayMcDowell, every case is personal.
Whether your matter is contentious or transactional, you’ll experience one consistent standard - professionalism anchored in honesty, clarity, and care.