Expert legal service for Panama naval mortgages — drafting, registration and enforcement. The preferred ship financing instrument under Panama maritime law.
The Panama naval mortgage (hipoteca naval) is the primary financing instrument for vessels registered under the Panama flag. It provides a registered, internationally recognized lien on the vessel.
We draft, negotiate and register naval mortgages for shipowners, lenders and financial institutions — ensuring proper legal priority and enforceability across jurisdictions.
Deep insight into Panama's tax authority processes.
Master in Public Administration — law, economics and policy.
You always deal directly with the attorney handling your case.
Licensed attorney in the Republic of Panama.
"A Panama naval mortgage is not just a contract — it's a registered instrument that follows the vessel globally and is recognized in the world's major maritime jurisdictions."
— Lic. José Manuel Góndola Escudero · Idoneidad No. 17,005Complete drafting of naval mortgage deed with all required terms, covenants and conditions.
Registration of the naval mortgage with the AMP to establish legal priority.
Assessment and management of mortgage ranking — first, second and subordinate positions.
Representing lenders in ship financing transactions with Panama-flagged vessels.
Representing shipowners in negotiating mortgage terms with lenders.
Vessel arrest and judicial enforcement of naval mortgage upon default.
We review vessel registration, ownership and any existing encumbrances.
Complete naval mortgage deed drafted with lender-specific terms and covenants.
Filing and registration of the mortgage with the AMP to establish legal priority.
Registered mortgage notation on the Panama registry certificate.
Naval mortgage registered for $15M bank financing on bulk carrier. First priority lien.
Second mortgage registered for additional financing on existing encumbered vessel.
Arrest of vessel in Panama upon default of naval mortgage. Full enforcement proceedings managed.
A registered maritime lien on a Panama-flagged vessel, used to secure ship financing. It follows the vessel regardless of ownership changes.
Yes. Panama naval mortgages are recognized in all major maritime jurisdictions and port state control regimes.
Priority is determined by registration date. First-registered mortgage has priority over subsequently registered mortgages.
Yes. The naval mortgage follows the vessel, not the owner. A change of ownership does not extinguish the registered mortgage.
Enforcement is through vessel arrest proceedings in Panama or in any jurisdiction where the vessel is located and where the mortgage is recognized.
Confidential consultation. We assess your financing structure and provide a complete roadmap.