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Useful Articles & News Updates

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should not rely on it as a substitute for specific legal advice in relation to any particular matter.

Stay informed with the latest insights on our News & Blog page. We cover key developments, expert analysis, and practical overviews to help businesses and individuals navigate evolving regulations, industry trends, and strategic opportunities.

EPF and ETF Explained

The *Employees Provident Fund (EPF)* and *Employees Trust Fund (ETF)* are two key components of the social security and benefits system in Sri Lanka. They provide financial security for employees during retirement, disability, or other life events. EPF is a compulsory retirement savings scheme where both employers and employees contribute a fixed percentage of the employee’s salary, while ETF is an employer-funded fund that supports employee welfare and social security. Understanding these systems is essential for employers to remain compliant and for employees to know their entitlements.

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Difference Between a Rental Agreement and a Lease Agreement in Sri Lanka

Many landlords and tenants in Sri Lanka are unsure about the difference between rental agreements and lease agreements. While both are legal contracts that outline terms for using a property, they differ in duration, legal requirements, and enforceability.

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Legal Guide to Starting a Business in Sri Lanka

Starting a business in Sri Lanka is exciting, but it can also feel complicated if you are new to the process. The legal steps are clear, but they must be followed carefully to avoid problems later on. Below, we walk you through the main stages, with simple explanations to help you understand how the system works.

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Types of Civil Jurisdiction in Sri Lanka 

In Sri Lanka’s legal system, understanding civil jurisdiction is essential for anyone involved in legal proceedings. Whether you are filing a lawsuit or defending one, knowing which court has the authority to hear your case can make all the difference.

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What Should Tenants Check Before Signing a Lease?

Signing a lease agreement is an important legal and financial commitment. Many tenants focus mainly on the monthly rent amount and overlook other important terms that can create future problems.Before signing any lease agreement, tenants should carefully review the document and fully understand their rights, responsibilities, and restrictions.

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How to Legally Terminate Employment in Sri Lanka

Terminating an employee in Sri Lanka is a legal process governed by the *Shop and Office Employees Act, **Industrial Disputes Act*, and other labour regulations. Employers cannot dismiss employees arbitrarily and must follow legal procedures to avoid claims of wrongful termination. Understanding the law is essential to protect the business and ensure fairness to the employee. Termination can occur due to redundancy, misconduct, poor performance, or mutual agreement, but each reason has specific legal requirements.

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Foreign Investment Laws in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has long been seen as a gateway to South Asia, with its strategic location, growing infrastructure, and a government eager to attract foreign investment. But before investing, it is essential to understand the legal framework that governs how foreign individuals and companies can operate here. At Wijesinghe Chambers, we help investors navigate these rules with clarity and confidence.

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Marriage, Divorce and Maintenance

Marriage in Sri Lanka is governed by a combination of *civil laws and personal laws, depending on the religion, ethnicity, and legal background of the individuals involved. The **Civil Marriage Ordinance* provides the legal framework for civil marriages open to all citizens, while specific communities follow personal laws such as *Kandyan, Muslim, and Roman Catholic laws*, which have unique requirements and procedures. Understanding which law applies is critical to ensure that a marriage is legally recognized. For instance, a Muslim couple must follow the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act to have their marriage legally valid, whereas a Kandyan marriage has different procedural requirements. Failure to comply with the relevant law can result in legal complications affecting property rights, inheritance, or divorce proceedings in the future.

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Private Limited vs Public Limited Companies

When setting up a business in Sri Lanka, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right type of company. The two most common forms for incorporated businesses are *Private Limited Companies* and *Public Limited Companies*. Each has its own advantages, legal requirements, and best use cases. Understanding the differences can save you time, money, and legal headaches in the future.

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Rental Agreement Laws in Sri Lanka Explained in Simple Terms

Rental agreements in Sri Lanka are legally binding contracts between a property owner and a tenant. They define the terms under which a property can be occupied, including rent, duration, responsibilities, and dispute resolution. Rental agreements protect both parties by clarifying their rights and obligations.

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Mediation vs Litigation: Which Is Right for Your Case?

Disputes are part of life, whether they involve businesses, families, or individuals. In Sri Lanka, the law provides multiple ways to resolve conflicts, the most common being *mediation and litigation*. Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps disputing parties reach a voluntary agreement, while litigation involves taking the matter to court for a binding judgment. Choosing the right path depends on the nature of the dispute, the parties involved, and the desired outcome.

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What Rights Should Landlords Include in a Rental Agreement?

A rental agreement should not only outline tenant obligations — it should also clearly protect the legal rights of the property owner. Well-drafted agreements help landlords manage risks, protect property value, and reduce future disputes.

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How Do I Claim Inheritance From a Deceased Parent in Sri Lanka?

When a parent passes away in Sri Lanka, inheritance is not automatically transferred. Even if you are a legal heir, you must go through a formal legal process before you can claim or access any property or assets.This process exists to ensure that the estate is properly verified, debts are settled, and rightful heirs are identified under Sri Lankan law.

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How Do You Legally Transfer Property After a Parent Dies in Sri Lanka?

Transferring property after the death of a parent in Sri Lanka is not a simple administrative task. It is a legal process governed by court supervision, inheritance law, and estate administration procedures.Until the legal process is completed, the property remains in the name of the deceased and cannot be legally sold, transferred, or re-registered.

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The Importance of a Lease Agreement

A lease agreement is the foundation of a rental relationship between landlords and tenants. In Sri Lanka, having a properly drafted lease is crucial to avoid disputes over rent, property use, and responsibilities. Whether you are renting a residential apartment, commercial office, or retail space, the lease outlines the rights and obligations of both parties and ensures that each side understands their legal position. Without a written lease, misunderstandings and conflicts can escalate into legal disputes that are difficult and costly to resolve.

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