In Panama, are you deemed 'innocent until proven guilty', or are you 'guilty until proven innocent'? So, if a policeman demanded a bribe, if you were caught on some minor infraction, and you declined and he then arrested you, what would happen?
Or, a Panamanian falsely accused you?
Or, a Panamanian decided to encroach on your property.
There are many examples.
How much trouble are you in? How expensive would it likely be, znd might you then be targeted?
Basic law in Panama, Panama
2FollowHim
22 March 2022 10:46:31
13
kristc99
22 March 2022 15:23:36
880
Thankfully I have no experience with the legal system but from the little I've heard, it can be complicated and lengthy to get anything sorted out. If there is a dispute between a Panamanian and a foreigner, the Panamanian has the more favorable position. It is recommended that you have a dash cam in case something happens and you have to prove it wasn't your fault. But on the other hand, I have found the police to be super nice, kind and helpful.
2FollowHim
22 March 2022 21:03:36
13
A friend, only one on the road in the evening went too fast(not a lot, very conservative), stopped, had to bribe policeman. Likely more on roads than foot policemen.
Another couple had everything stolen, never got help.
It's too iffy for me.
panamachick
19 April 2022 03:43:33
95
I think the culture here is more refined. they “pretend” they don't take bribes and
Say they don't. I have never heard of anyone openly ASK for a bribe. it is up
To the foreigner OR Panamanian to initiate it, sneak a $20 or a $5, in with your
Passport? And they call it a “propino” to get paperwork to not stalemate, in a
Situation where dealing with the gov. Is involved.
example, we do have garbage pick up at our house, though I pay, and no one picks up.
So one time, after several years of accumulation, we filled a small trailer, and off
We went, looking for the landfill, where we thot it was. Well we found it, but
Apparently were not allowed in unless we had “paid” at the administration office,
Which we had not because we did not know the protocol. After we pulled out a
Five, from my wallet, the issue was resolved INSTANTLY!!, lol. Do I feel bad?. Lol.
The heat Alone, beats me down doing life in this country. So I just go with the
Flow. It's their country. I am living in THEIR country, they are not obligated to
Run their country based on my moral values, 🤷🏼♀️😊.
crystalrichards1962
19 April 2022 21:43:00
2
Thank you all. I may see you one day if you are already there.
panamachick
19 April 2022 22:40:46
95
@panamarealtor2004 , no it's better to buy your property through a foundation, or business. Of which you are the presidente y vice presidente.
alouel
03 May 2022 16:58:17
1
@panamachick
Good day , just Wondering why, what are the advantage thank you
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