The legal system on Nevis is based on English Common Law served by a high court of justice, a Court of Appeal and her Majesty's Privy Council in London.  St. Kitts and Nevis has agreed to be included in the Caribbean Court of Appeals Circuit.

While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country’s laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the U.S., and which may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law.  Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the U.S. for similar offenses.  Persons violating St. Kitts and Nevis laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in St. Kitts and Nevis are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Fortunately Nevis has a number of compentent attorneys capable of handling anything from criminal offenses to adoptions to real estate transactions to offshore banking and incorporation, along with a host of other legal services.   Nevis Finance provides this list of attorneys on Nevis all of whom can provide you with information about their representation.   Please note this list is provided as an information resource only and not to be considered an endorsement of any of the persons or firms on this list.

It's a rare occurance, but important to note that visitors have occasionally been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and other petty street crime, although this is less prevalent on Nevis than it is on St. Kitts.  It should go without saying that valuables left unattended on beaches are subject to theft.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate.  A lost or stolen U.S. birth certificate and/or driver’s license generally cannot be replaced outside the U.S.  U.S. citizens may refer to the U.S. Department of State’s pamphlets,  A Safe Trip Abroad, and Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean for ways to promote a more trouble-free journey.  These pamphlet are also available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.

Additional Resources:

• List of Attorney Firms on Nevis
• MacMillan Law Library - good starting point for researching foreign laws
• Guide to Law Online: St. Kitts and Nevis
• US Department Of State Consular Affairs Publications offers numerous links to useful and informative publications.  In particular, be sure to read:
  • A Safe Trip Abroad
  • Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean
  • Tips for Women Traveling Alone