In Guyana, law firms operate across a broad range of legal specialties, from individual and civil matters to large-scale corporate and constitutional cases. They are typically categorized based on practice areas and client types they serve.
Types of Law Firms in Guyana
1. General Practice Law Firms
- Handle a wide variety of legal issues.
- Common services:
Land disputes
Divorce and family law
Wills and probate
Civil litigation
Employment issues - Examples: Small to mid-sized firms across Georgetown and regional towns.
2. Corporate & Commercial Law Firms
- Represent businesses, investors, and corporations.
- Focus on:
Contract drafting
Mergers & acquisitions
Investment law
Company formation
Tax & regulatory compliance - Often involved in oil & gas, mining, and infrastructure sectors.
3. Energy, Oil & Gas Law Firms
- Emerged strongly after Guyana’s petroleum discoveries.
- Handle:
Exploration & production agreements
Joint ventures
Environmental compliance
Local content rules - Often partner with international law firms.
4. Criminal Defense Firms
- Represent individuals accused of crimes.
- Services include:
Bail applications
Criminal trials
Appeals
Constitutional rights protection - Some attorneys specialize in serious indictable offences.
5 Human Rights & Constitutional Law Practices
- Focus on public interest, civil rights, and constitutional challenges.
- Often represent marginalized communities or NGOs.
- Involved in freedom of speech, indigenous land rights, etc.
6. Immigration & International Law Firms
- Help with:
Work permits
Residency and citizenship
Deportation defense
International arbitration - Relevant for expatriates, investors, and diplomatic missions.
7. Family & Child Advocacy Firms
- Specialize in:
Child custody and protection
Domestic violence cases
Divorce and spousal support
Adoption and guardianship
Examples of Notable Law Firms in Guyana
- Fraser, Housty & Yearwood
- Hughes, Fields & Stoby
- London House Chambers
- Mohamed & Mohamed
- Ralph Ramkarran SC – Cameron & Shepherd
