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Timely coverage of 2026 legal reforms
Japan Tender Offer 30% Rule 2026: In-Market Trades Now Covered
Japan amended Financial Instruments Act took effect May 1, 2026. Mandatory tender offer threshold drops from 1/3 to 30%, in-market trades now covered. Plus the 0.5% de minimis carve-out and 5%-rule reforms reshape M&A and activist defense.
Japan Designated Abuse-Prevention OTC Drugs 2026: 8 Substances and Under-18 Restrictions
Japan amended Pharmaceuticals Act took effect May 1, 2026, designating 8 abuse-prevention substances. Under-18 buyers limited to one small pack; multi-pack sales banned. Violations trigger administrative sanctions.
JFTC Recommendation Against Chubu Electric: What Went Wrong in Freelance Engagements
On Feb 27 2026 the JFTC issued a recommendation against Chubu Electric for Freelance Protection Act violations involving 39 professionals (lawyers, doctors, university professors). We analyze the practical risks of professional engagements and prevention.
Japan Civil Procedure Digitalization May 2026: e-Filing, mints, and Pro Se Litigants
Japan completes civil procedure digitalization on May 21, 2026. Lawyers must e-file via mints, judgments can be served electronically, and online records access begins. Pro se litigants retain paper option. Five practical points before launch.
Consumer Contract Act and Dark Patterns 2026: Subscription Cancellation Obstruction Now Illegal
Hidden subscription cancellation forms, "first-time only" framing that hides recurring billing — Japan is tightening consumer contract and specific commerce laws around dark patterns. We summarize the 2026 regulatory state for consumers and businesses.
My Number Health Card Transition 2026: Is the Old Insurance Card Gone for Good?
A year and a half after Japan stopped issuing traditional health insurance cards, where does the My Number Health Card transition stand in May 2026? Eligibility certificates, medical-clinic issues, and the impact on foreign residents — explained.
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Popular Legal Questions
Top questions people ask about law
Q. What are the legal grounds for judicial divorce in Japan?
A. Even without consent, divorce can be granted by court for reasons like infidelity, violence, or long...
Q. How is child custody decided in a Japanese divorce?
A. Custody is decided based on the child's best interests, considering caregiving history and stability...
Q. What is the typical amount of child support in Japan?
A. Child support is calculated based on both parents' income and the child's age, typically around 40,0...
Q. How is property divided in a divorce in Japan?
A. Marital assets are split equally (50/50). Pre-marriage or inherited assets are excluded. Claims must...
Q. What is the typical range for divorce alimony in Japan?
A. You can claim alimony from the spouse at fault. Typical amounts: 1-3 million yen for adultery, 0.5-5...
Q. How are legal inheritance shares determined in Japan?
A. Inheritance shares depend on who survives: spouse and children split 50/50, spouse and parents get 2...
Latest Articles
Browse our latest legal columns
Japan Designated Abuse-Prevention OTC Drugs 2026: 8 Substances and Under-18 Restrictions
Japan amended Pharmaceuticals Act took effect May 1, 2026, designating 8 abuse-prevention substances. Under-18 buyers limited to one small pack; multi-pack sales banned. Violations trigger administrative sanctions.
JFTC Recommendation Against Chubu Electric: What Went Wrong in Freelance Engagements
On Feb 27 2026 the JFTC issued a recommendation against Chubu Electric for Freelance Protection Act violations involving 39 professionals (lawyers, doctors, university professors). We analyze the practical risks of professional engagements and prevention.
Japan Civil Procedure Digitalization May 2026: e-Filing, mints, and Pro Se Litigants
Japan completes civil procedure digitalization on May 21, 2026. Lawyers must e-file via mints, judgments can be served electronically, and online records access begins. Pro se litigants retain paper option. Five practical points before launch.
Consumer Contract Act and Dark Patterns 2026: Subscription Cancellation Obstruction Now Illegal
Hidden subscription cancellation forms, "first-time only" framing that hides recurring billing — Japan is tightening consumer contract and specific commerce laws around dark patterns. We summarize the 2026 regulatory state for consumers and businesses.
My Number Health Card Transition 2026: Is the Old Insurance Card Gone for Good?
A year and a half after Japan stopped issuing traditional health insurance cards, where does the My Number Health Card transition stand in May 2026? Eligibility certificates, medical-clinic issues, and the impact on foreign residents — explained.
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