These services ensure that companies comply with their legal obligations under the Companies Act. They include filing annual returns, maintaining statutory registers, and preparing shareholder or board resolutions.
Corporate Secretarial Services
Corporate secretarial services involve the legal and regulatory support required to properly form, maintain, and operate companies in accordance with the laws of Trinidad and Tobago. These services are especially important for businesses seeking to ensure long-term compliance and proper governance.
Support is provided during the incorporation process and continues throughout the life of the company, including maintaining statutory records, preparing resolutions, and advising on corporate obligations. Guidance is also given on shareholder rights, director responsibilities, and compliance with the Companies Act and other applicable legislation.
We Do
- Incorporating Companies/Sole Trader Entities/ Partnerships and Nonprofit Organisations
- Filing the necessary forms to ensure compliance with the Companies Act CHAP 81:01 (Forms 28, 42 and 45 etc)
- Orders for Paternity and DNA testing
- Drafting Bylaws for Companies and Constitutions for Non-Profit entities
Arvin Arjoonsingh
Frequently Asked Questions – Corporate Secretarial Services
Answers to common questions about corporate secretarial services in Trinidad and Tobago.
Yes. All companies registered under the Companies Act must file annual returns with the Companies Registry, even if the business is inactive. Failure to do so can lead to penalties or removal from the registry.
A shareholder agreement outlines the rights, duties, and obligations of shareholders. It helps prevent disputes by clarifying how decisions are made and how shares may be transferred.
A company must keep its articles of incorporation, minutes of meetings, registers of directors and shareholders, and all filed statutory documents in a corporate records book.
Yes. In certain cases, directors can be personally liable if they act negligently, breach fiduciary duties, or fail to comply with statutory obligations under the Companies Act.
Navigating Corporate Governance and Compliance in Trinidad and Tobago
This guide explores the key responsibilities of company secretaries, including formation, filings, and internal governance, ensuring your business meets statutory obligations under local corporate law.
Did You Know? Your Company Can Be Struck Off for Missing One Filing
In Trinidad and Tobago, if a company fails to file its annual return—even just once—it may be listed as non-compliant and face removal from the Companies Registry. This is known as being “struck off the register,” and it effectively dissolves the company in the eyes of the law.
Once struck off, the company cannot legally enter into contracts, sue, or even maintain a bank account. Restoration requires a court order and payment of all outstanding fees. A corporate secretary helps avoid this risk by monitoring deadlines and ensuring all filings are up to date.
Step-by-Step: Navigating Corporate Governance and Compliance in Trinidad and Tobago
Incorporate the Company: The process begins by preparing and filing the necessary incorporation documents with the Companies Registry, including the Articles of Incorporation and Notice of Directors.
Appoint Directors and Officers: Once incorporated, the company must formally appoint directors and officers. These appointments must be recorded and filed as part of the company�s initial organization.
Maintain Statutory Records: The company must establish and maintain corporate records such as the register of members, register of directors, and minutes of meetings.
Prepare and File Annual Returns: Each year, the company must file its annual return with the Companies Registry to confirm that it remains active and in good standing.
Draft Corporate Resolutions as Needed: When decisions require formal approval�such as opening a bank account or appointing a new director�a written resolution or board meeting is required.
Ensure Ongoing Compliance: Throughout the company�s operation, secretarial support ensures compliance with local regulations, filing deadlines, and governance standards under the Companies Act.