In 2018, we, the founders of Mantra Legal Counsel, were still working at a leading legal consulting firm in Indonesia. During this time, we noticed the significant challenges faced by anyone, particularly foreigners, when trying to start a business in Bali.
The business and legal bureaucracy in Bali and across Indonesia is notably complex. From finding a reputable notary and matching the business with the appropriate Indonesian Business Code, to navigating business licenses, securing a suitable office, dealing with local authorities, and managing visas, taxes, and compliance, the process can be overwhelming. Moreover, reliable information in English is scarce, and many local authorities do not speak the language, which forces foreigners to rely on peers or seek out legal consultants.
Legal consulting has been a steadfast industry in Bali for over 30 years, thriving despite these complexities because starting a business in Bali remains lucrative. Bali is a global tourism hub, continually evolving and offering new opportunities. For instance, while areas like Kuta and Seminyak were popular thirty years ago, recent years have seen the rise of Canggu, with Pererenan and Bingin also showing rapid development. The demand is evident, especially during peak seasons like Christmas or summer when accommodations are fully booked well in advance.
Data from the Indonesian Central Bureau of Statistics show that nearly 4 million people visited Bali from January to September 2023 alone, highlighting the region’s immense market potential. The enduring presence of numerous legal consulting firms in Bali underscores the essential role these entities play. However, finding a trustworthy consultant can be challenging. It’s not uncommon to hear of businesses facing legal issues or foreigners being detained due to the incompetence of their consultants. Many consultants exploit the language barrier and lack of reliable information, sometimes giving poor advice or engaging in outright extortion to close invoices.
Our vision for Mantra Legal Counsel was born from these industry challenges. We commit to integrity and transparency in our work. We take the time to listen to our clients, understand their unique situations, and get directly involved in solving their problems. Our involvement ranges from the simplest to the most complex issues, ensuring we see each task through from start to finish.
Our firm was founded on the principle that “Trustworthy You Can Afford” isn’t just a slogan—it’s our core value. We believe in providing honest, high-quality service where trust is the most valuable currency. This commitment to our values and our direct, personal involvement with each client has ensured that none of our clients have ever been dissatisfied with our services.
This is the foundation upon which Mantra Legal Counsel was built and why we continue to serve with dedication and integrity.
