Firms To Watch: Labour and employment

In a demonstration of steady growth, Baquero & Asociados S.A added eight new clients to its labour and employment practice during 2022/23, with a marked emphasis on the construction sphere. Partners Melba Elvira Guzmán, Guillermo Alberto Baquero and Andrea Calderon co-head the group.
Deloitte Asesores y Consultores’ labour and employment group has been on an upward trajectory following the arrival of next-generation partner Isabella Gandini, who joined in 2020 from Holland & Knight. Significantly, the group added ten new clients over the past year alone.
Sanclemente Fernández Abogados S.A. is noted for its niche expertise in advising energy, particularly oil and gas companies, on labour and employment issues. Senior partner Teresita Cardona handles a mix of individual and collective labour law matters; she is also well versed in social security law.

Labour and employment in Colombia

Alvarez, Lievano, Laserna S.A.S

A strategic ally in collective and individual labour law matters’, Alvarez, Lievano, Laserna S.A.S stands as a benchmark in the market. The specialist boutique is particularly revered for its impressive record in collective bargaining work, but it shines across the full spectrum of advisory and contentious matters, where it routinely represents major domestic and multinational clients from all of Colombia’s main economic sectors. Key contacts include high-profile labour law veteran Carlos Alvarez Pereira; experienced specialist Claudia LiévanoFelipe Alvarez Echeverry, who is noted for his aviation sector expertise; Maria Lucia Laserna Angarita, who ‘takes the trouble to get to know the business’; and litigation head Carlos Arturo Barco Alzate. Senior associate Andrea Ortega is also recommended. In November 2022, senior associate María Fernanda Echeverry left to join Grupo Bimbo.

Practice head(s):

Carlos Alvarez Pereira; Claudia Liévano; Felipe Alvarez Echeverri; Maria Lucia Laserna Angarita; Carlos Arturo Barco Alzate


Testimonials

The firm provides us with labour advice and support at union negotiation tables. It demonstrates complete availability and high efficiency in its recommendations. Lawyers are up-to-date and provide training and labour updates. It is a strategic ally in collective and individual labour law matters.

Claudia Liévano is an outstanding professional, with great service levels, high-level legal knowledge and complete availability in meeting legal requirements.

I have worked with many labour law firms and Alvarez, Lievano, Laserna has definitely been the best of them, not only because of its knowledge but also because of its handling of the employees of the company I represent. Service is personalised, warm and always on time.

Maria Lucia Laserna Angarita has been the only external lawyer to understand that a company does not need someone to recite the substantive code of work, but rather to give recommendations that are applicable in the institution and according to the needs of the business — always in an ethical manner.

Maria Lucia Laserna Angarita takes the trouble to get to know the business and understand its needs in order to be able to give real advice, coupled to the specific reality of the company.

Alvarez, Lievano, Laserna is a legal team that provides advice filtered through the latest legal and jurisprudential developments.

Felipe Alvarez Echeverri is a clear, deep and practical adviser. His ability and agility to negotiate with the unions exceeds expectations, as well as the way he balances the interests of the company, employees, and the unions.

Key clients

Omnitempus


Productos El Rey


Gran Estación Centro Comercial


Perenco


Independence Drilling


Borets


Etek


Operadora Minera


Oxxo


Comestibles Ricos


Sacs Consultores


Pecom Energia


Royds Withy King


Skechers Colombia


Animals


GoStudent Colombia


Hino Motors


WOM


Crezcamos


Work highlights


  • Advised Opain, which has more than 2,500 direct and indirect workers, on the collective bargaining process that it carried out with the National Association of Firefighters at the Service of Public and Private Entities (ANBASEC), a union that covers Colombia’s fire departments.
  • Acted for Crezcamos on its first collective bargaining process with the Colombian Association of Bank Employees (ACEB), a major union in the financial sector.
  • Represented Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Bogotá (ETB) in its collective bargaining process with the Union Association of ICT Professionals (ASPROTIC), which represents ETB professionals.

Baker McKenzie S.A.S.

Baker McKenzie S.A.S. impresses with its ‘high level of up-to-date knowledge in the face of changes in labour law’. The practice handles a comprehensive range of advisory, contentious, and corporate support matters, with the ability to plug into its wider regional — and global — employment platform for support in multi-jurisdictional matters. Department co-head Tatiana Garcés provides support that is ‘above and beyond’ and is noted for her broad practice that spans labour law, employee benefits, social security and occupational health, among other matters. Fellow group head Evelyn Romero advises on a wide scope of employment and immigration issues and notably leads the immigration practice for Latin America. Additional names include newly promoted (July 2023) partners Maria Cecilia Reyes and Daniela Liévano, as well as intermediate associates Gabriela Delgado and Gerardo Paredes. Associates Natalia Suarez and Alexandra Silveira left for Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA) and Velocity Global, respectively, in August 2022.

Practice head(s):

Tatiana Garcés; Evelyn Romero


Testimonials

Baker McKenzie’s support in Colombia has been remarkable. We’re a US-based company, with only a handful of employees in LAC, even fewer in Colombia. What we don’t know about legal requirements there could fill a 10-gallon bucket but the BM team were sooo helpful every step of the way.

I’ve been very pleased with Tatiana Garcés and her team. Despite our often relentless questions, Tatiana has remained patient and responsive throughout. She has hopped on calls with very little notice and truly provided support that is above and beyond what I typically see.

The team enjoys a high level of up-to-date knowledge in the face of changes in labour law, which consolidates its technical credibility. We highlight Evelyn Romero and associate Gabriela Delgado.

Key clients

Amdocs


Caterpillar


Clarios Andina


Dynatrace


Embajada de Canadá


Embajada del Reino de los Países Bajos


Envases Puros International


Everise


Equinix


FLSmidth


Fortinet


Get Ontop


Grupo Familia


Icon


Icumed


Industrias Vanyplas


Johnson Controls Colombia


MercadoLibre


Mondelez


NCR


Netflix


Nub 7/8


Orange


Rackspace


Univision


Worki Jobs (Hunty)


Work highlights


  • Advised MercadoLibre Colombia on various matters, in partnership with offices in other Latam jurisdictions.
  • Represented a multinational pharmaceutical company in defending a dismissal-related claim.
  • Advised a major health company on labour-related matters.

Godoy Córdoba member of Littler Global

Specialist boutique Godoy Córdoba member of Littler Global brings to bear an enviably deep bench that draws on nine partners in Colombia alone, as well as well-staffed teams worldwide through its membership of Littler Mendelson, P.C.. The full-service practice covers the waterfront on labour and employment law, and also handles immigration, where it additionally benefits from its partnership with international immigration firm, Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy. High-profile name Carlos Hernán Godoy specialises in collective bargaining and transactional support matters; Francisco Buriticá is sought after for his broad contentious and non-contentious experience; Gustavo Gnecco is valued for his litigation strength as a former Assistant Judge of the Labour Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice; and Ricardo Alonso is an ‘expert in collective law’. Additional partners include: Ana Cristina Medina, who focuses on representing international clients; energy sector specialist Andrés Fernando DaCosta; Santiago Martínez, who directs the labour audits and due diligence department; and Federico Bernal, who has an emphasis on advisory matters. Associate Diego Chaparro is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Andrés Godoy Córdoba; Carlos Hernán Godoy; Ana Cristina Medina; Francisco Buriticá; Gustavo Gnecco; Andres Fernando DaCosta; Santiago Martinez; Federico Bernal; Ricardo Alonso


Testimonials

The team’s level of customer service stands out and they are always attentive to satisfy the needs of the user.

The team is very comprehensive. It has good technology in terms of the portal it uses and it has no problem comparing advice from other firms to contribute and add value to the strategy. The firm’s times in terms of quotes and invoices are quite good and lawyers definitely work as a team.

Partners and associates are considered part of our company’s team, which makes information flow. There is always a rationale behind each proposal, not only from a legal point of view but also in terms of understanding the circumstances of the company, the environment, and the political-social situation.

Key clients

Alpina Productos Alimenticios


L’Oréal Colombia


Banco Davivienda


Sociedad Administradora de Fondos de Pensiones y Cesantias Porvenir


Diaco


Ceramica San Lorenzo Industrial de Colombia


B Braun Avitum


Azteca Comunicaciones Colombia


Operación y Mantenimiento Integral de Activos Colombia (OMIA)


Comercial Nutresa


Indulatex


Colombiana de Comercio (Alkosto)


Volvo Group Colombia


Taskus Colombia


Work highlights


  • Handled collective negotiations for Operación y Mantenimiento Integral de Activos Colombia (OMIA), which involved four consortiums and representatives of the Unión Sindical Obrera (USO).
  • Advised Grupo Nutresa on designing a strategy that would allow it to manage eight simultaneous collective negotiations within the parameters and budgets established by the company.
  • Represented Alkosto in a case in which a worker attempted to claim, -through a constitutional action (‘tutela’)- reinforced labour stability due to his disability, despite being dismissed with just cause for presenting repeated harassment actions.

Lopez & Asociados Abogados

According to satisfied clients, labour and employment boutique Lopez & Asociados Abogados stands as ‘a fundamental tool for defining strategy and decision making’. The group advises on the full gamut of collective and individual labour and employment matters, including collective bargaining processes, termination proceedings, and strategic corporate labour consultancy — it also houses complementary expertise in immigration, pensions and employee benefits. Go-to expert Juan Pablo Lópezknows more than anyone else in the country about labour’, according to some, and fronts the labour planning group. Sought after non-contentious specialist Angélica María Carrión spearheads the employment consultancy department, while Alejandro Castellanos heads the litigation practice with support from associate co-ordinator Ismael Babativa. Labour relations partner Rocío Lagos and consulting lead Ana María Rubiano are also recommended at senior level. Key associates include Maria Teresa Gonzalez (leader of the defence unit); Camilo Fonseca (co-ordinator for guardianship actions); and Manuel Germán Torres (senior leader for consulting and third parties).

Practice head(s):

Angélica María Carrión; Juan Pablo López; Alejandro Castellanos; Rocío Lagos; Ana María Rubiano


Testimonials

We value the team for its deep knowledge in labour, immigration, and social security law, as well as for the personalised attention of the partners as required.

We recommend Angélica María Carrión for consulting and Alejandro Castellanos for judicial representation, together with Ismael Babativa. They not only give opinions but also recommend action plans.

Lopez & Asociados Abogados is the most competent labour law team in the country. The team is assertive in its answers, it anticipates problems, it has the most experience, and it acts for numerous sophisticated clients. It is very cooperative and has a great sense of urgency; lawyers are permanently available.

In addition to being experts in labour law and social security, lawyers are competent in other disciplines of law such as commercial issues, which facilitates their understanding of our business and strengthens the impact of their advice. Similarly, they are proactive in exposing possible challenges.

Juan Pablo López is an expert in Colombian labour law. Alejandro Castellanos is probably the most successful legal litigator in the country, both for his substantive knowledge and for his procedural skills and assertiveness in recommending the actions that the client should take.

A very complete multidisciplinary team, with very fast response times and solutions that are very much in line with the company’s strategy. Since we have worked with the firm, it has become a fundamental tool for defining strategy and decision making.

Its people are trained, professional, friendly and committed.

Juan Pablo López knows more than anyone else in the country about labour law, but he is also an incredible human being. One finds great professionals, but not a mixture of a great professional with a human being, which makes him even more brilliant and objective in helping companies with decision-making.

Key clients

Esmeraldas Mining Services


Halliburton Latin America, sucursal Colombia


Diana Corporación (Dicorp)


Laika


BDO Consulting


Grupo Hada International


Banco De Occidente


Colmedica Medicina Prepagada


Caja De Compensacion Familiar Cafam


Comcel


Sodimac Colombia


Air-e


Suppla


Consorcio Express


Scotiabank Colpatria


ISA


Brigard Urrutia

Brigard Urrutia’s labour and employment practice is noted for its ‘sense of immediacy, willingness, and promptness’. Among its other distinguishing features, the group’s ability to draw on the wider international-facing firm, as well as its membership of global labour and employment law alliance Ius Laboris, ensures that it is a popular choice to advise multinational clients. Department head Catalina Santos handles advisory and contentious work, including restructuring processes, collective bargaining and transactional support matters. The team also draws on director José Alejandro Sierra (sports law, and labour and employment), and senior associates Daniela Caicedo (‘empathic and business oriented’) and Camilo Mutis (‘understands the sense of urgency’). Since publication, both Caicedo and Mutis have been promoted to associate practice directors (effective as sof January 2024), allowing Sierra to focus more fully on sports law and gaming matters.

Practice head(s):

Catalina Santos


Testimonials

The labour and employment work team is excellent, and contributes all of its experience and knowledge. I highlight its excellent customer service and response times.

We value the team’s warmth and quality of work and proactive responses.

The team has solid knowledge of labour regulation and practice. The consultancies have been assertive, the procedural strategy and the execution applied to the required cases have been to the satisfaction of our HR team.

We appreciate the sense of immediacy, willingness and promptness with which its professionals meet our requirements. It understands the sense of urgency and the complexity of a dynamic and changing industry; I would like to highlight associate Camilo Mutis in this regard.

The team provides quick and efficient responses and demonstrates high levels of professionalism.

Daniela Caicedo is a great professional. Very empathic and business oriented.

Key clients

Exxon Mobil


Austin Ingenieros Colombia


Cardinal Health


NBCUniversal Networks International Colombia


Apple


Intel


3M


International Committee Of The Red Cross


The Walt Disney Company


Universal Linc de Colombia


Work highlights


  • Represented Oncológos del Occidente, and its partners, in employment litigation initiated by its former general manager.
  • Represented Austin Ingenieros Colombia in more than 30 employment claims, which were mainly initiated by former employees requesting the declaration that two extra legal benefits (transportation and meal allowance).
  • Advised Cardinal Health on defining the employee transfer mechanism that was most convenient to its interests, following the sale of a part of its business in Colombia to Cordis.

Chapman Wilches

Chapman Wilches is valued for its ability to ‘analyse the risks and realities of the environment to deliver different proposals’. As a labour and employment boutique with a broad national platform — it maintains five Colombian offices, including Bucaramanga through its association with Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas — it is uniquely positioned to advise major domestic employers with operations across the country. Collective labour law expert Charles Chapman is recommended for his ‘experience, innovation and assertiveness’. Chapman co-heads the practice alongside Mirna Wilches, who is highlighted for her ‘knowledge and good management of relationships’. At associate level, litigation manager Heimy Blanco, guardianship manager Leda Mejía Martínez, and cassation co-ordinator Orianna Gentile are noted.

Practice head(s):

Charles Chapman; Mirna Wilches


Testimonials

Chapman Wilches stands out from other labour law firms due to its agility in response, its efficiency and practicality in advice, its sense of business reality, but above all for its ability to analyse the risks and realities of the environment to deliver different proposals to its clients .

The team understands business models, the economic and political environment, and the characteristics and cultures of each company it advises. In the same way, its ability to synthesise and specify concepts and actions, using high-level corporate language, facilitates decision-making .

What makes Chapman Wilches unique is the personalised and timely attention to all the requirements that we as a company have on a day-to-day basis.

The team is composed of people who are committed and passionate about their work, with a gift of service that they make available to their clients and that makes them unique. I highlight: Heimy Blanco, Orianna Gentile and Leda Mejía Martínez.

Charles Chapman stands out for his experience, innovation and assertiveness. Mirna Wilches is distinguished by her experience, knowledge, and good management of relationships.

In this order, the most important features of the team’s service are its quality, response times, business vision, added value as an ally, administrative organisation, and good billing process.

I believe the team understands the client’s needs, visualises all the legal scenarios, and provides all the advice to make the best decision. Also, the team is very well educated and very easy to communicate with.

The team listens carefully and understands the client’s reality, and also clarifies the options based on the legal framework. Lawyers are very dedicated, take the time to give detailed legal options, and are always willing to talk and listen to the client’s needs. It explains complex issues simply.

Key clients

Termocandelaria


Grupo Éxito


Compañía Global de Pinturas (Pintuco)


TCC


Alquería


Bancamía


Bancoomeva


Tecpetrol


Ecopetrol


Cementos Argos


Seguros Bolívar


Manpower


Tigo Une


Frubana


Smartfit


Ternium


Work highlights


  • Advised Termocandelaria on a collective agreement that allowed the continuity of its most important expansion project.
  • Successfully represented Nexarte Servicios Temporales in lifting a fine imposed by the Ministry of Labour.
  • Supported Compañía Global de Pinturas (Pintuco) on the signing of a collective bargaining agreement with three major unions.

Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría

The ‘innovative and effective’ group at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría added 11 new clients over the past year, including multinationals such as Red Bull Colombia and Beat Rideapp Colombia. The team is well versed across the full spectrum of advisory, transactional support and contentious matters, with notable expertise in complex employment and social security litigation, including cases involving mass terminations. Department head Carolina Porras specialises in labour, social security and immigration law, with strong experience in transactional support and contentious matters. The team also includes associates María José Rondón and Isabella Huertas. In June 2023, associate Mariana Torres left to join Vélez Trujillo Legal.

Practice head(s):

Carolina Porras


Testimonials

It is a team that knows the area of practice quite well and that is committed to the client. In addition to its excellent performance levels, it provides strong client service.

Lawyers stand out for their knowledge, customer service, awareness of the relevant issues, and proactivity in each matter.

The greatest strength of the team is its human and professional quality when it comes to addressing the challenges of our organisation.

It is a team dedicated to providing the best customer service possible. It is positioned as one of the best teams for labour law in Colombia, especially among full-service firms. It provides newsflashes, which are extremely useful and give insight into legislative changes and how they can affect businesses.

The team is comprised primarily of women, led by partner Carolina Porras and her lead associates María José Rondón and Isabella Huertas. They are extremely knowledgeable lawyers with extensive experience in all areas of law, including administrative, judicial and day-to-day consultations.

What makes this practice unique is its combination of experience and technical knowledge, which allows them to provide innovative and effective solutions to their clients.

The firm is very skilled at working as a team, co-ordinating and collaborating with other professionals and experts in different areas to provide comprehensive advice. In general, I believe that the firm compares favourably with other firms, thanks to its personalised and client-oriented approach.

Lawyers are up-to-date on the latest trends and changes in labour laws and regulations, which allows them to offer solid and reliable legal advice. They also understand that each client is unique, which is why they strive to provide high-quality, personalised service that is tailored to each client’s needs.

Key clients

Alpha Holding


Relx


Trust Law


Alexion Pharma


Red Bull Colombia


Development Alternatives (DAI Global)


Uvi Tech Colombia


Abbott Laboratories de Colombia


Beat Rideapp Colombia


Carco


BRC Ratings – S&P Global Sociedad Calificadora de Valores


Special Tribunal for Peace (JEP)


KPMG Advisory, Tax & Legal


Work highlights


  • Advised Alpha Holding on employment matters connected to its controlling corporation’s bankruptcy process in the US.
  • Advised start-up Uvi Tech on compliance with labour law matters, including providing training on collective law.
  • Advised Elsevier on outsourcing-related employment matters, including transferring its employment contracts.

Escandón Abogados

Lawyers at Escandón Abogadosgo beyond simple consulting to become strategic allies’, according to sources. The labour and employment boutique is particularly recognised for its strength in collective bargaining and conflict resolution, but it covers the full range of related issues, including due diligence and corporate support matters. Alberto Escandón has ‘vast experience in labour law and collective bargaining’, while litigator María Claudia Escandón is highlighted as a ‘seasoned trial attorney’. Consultancy lead Juan Fernando Escandón and due diligence head María Jimena Escandón are also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Alberto Escandon; Maria Claudia Escandon; Juan Fernando Escandon; Maria Jimena Escandon


Testimonials

The quality of the service and the availability of the office is unbeatable. It is a firm that focuses on the business, with lawyers positioning themselves as allies in its construction and looking for alternatives for its administration.

The lawyers of this office, in addition to having the best professional qualities, have the best human qualities; they stay up-to-date and go beyond simple consulting to become strategic allies.

The attention is personalised, the response time is expedited and the rates are very competitive.

Key clients

Hotel Sunrise Beach


Palmar de Altamira


Tecnoquímicas


Sociedad de Agricultores de Colombia


Drummond


Manuelita


Compass Group Services


Organización Roa Florhuila


GHL Hoteles


Santa Anita de Nápoles.


Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina


Manufacturas Eliot


Crescent


Beiersdorf


Sociedad de Agricultores de Colombia


Work highlights


  • Advised Empresa de Energía de Boyacá (EBSA) on its collective bargaining procedure with the SINTRAELECOL union.
  • Represented Manuelita in its negotiations and collective bargaining procedure with two employee unions.
  • Advised Terminal de Transporte Bogotá on its collective bargaining process with the ADETT union.

Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas

Bucaramanga-based boutique Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas finds favour for the ‘dedication and effort it puts into each task’. The team is also distinguished by its alliance with national labour and employment firm Chapman Wilches, which provides access to four additional platforms across Colombia. The group has strong offerings in collective bargaining, occupational health and safety issues and labour litigation, but it is equipped to advise on the full array of labour market matters. Eduardo Pilonieta Pinillademonstrates mastery of labour legislation’, while Patricia Álvarez Ribero is also sought after for her extensive experience. Senior associates Diana Sepúlveda Reyes and Diana Carolina Ortiz Vargas are additionally recommended.

Practice head(s):

Eduardo Pilonieta Pinilla; Patricia Álvarez Ribero; Diana Sepúlveda Reyes


Testimonials

The firm advises and represents the interests of clients adequately and accurately, with maximum levels of efficiency and effectiveness. It has a trained work team, capable of correctly solving the challenges that are proposed to it.

Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas is characterised by compliance, suitability and speed in responses. It is the largest law firm in Eastern Colombia specialising in labour and employment, as well as in everything related to safety and health at work; disciplines that are closely related.

We value the team for the dedication and effort it puts into each task that is entrusted to it. It is a specialised and highly structured firm, which facilitates good relations with clients. Lawyers are professionals who act ethically and responsibly and handle the assigned cases as if they were their own.

Key clients

Protehos


Comercializadora San Lorenzo


ESSI


El Ciclista de Colombia


Pallana Centro Terapéutico de Estimulación de la Inteligencia


Piedecuestana DE Servicios Públicos


Gruas TGM


Forpresalud IPS


Offimédicas


Gomosec


Compañia Pesquera del Mar


Clinica Chicamocha


Clinica San Luis


Atento Teleservicios España, sucursal en Colombia


Clínica Colombiana de Prótesis Dentales


Eco Oro Minerals Corp (Colombia branch)


Industrias Lavco


Pretecor


Agroingenium


Ceresagro


Alrio


Universidad de Santander (UDES)


Gases del Oriente


Avicola el Madroño


Fundación Cardiovascular de Colombia


Work highlights


  • Represented Avimol in a case brought by a plaintiff requesting the declaration of an employment contract.
  • Represented Centro Comercial Cabecera IV Etapa in litigation before the Ministry of Labour requesting permission to terminate an employee’s contract.
  • Represented Below the Game in complex labour litigation.

Posse Herrera Ruiz

Over the past year, Posse Herrera Ruiz has advised domestic and multinational clients on a wide scope of labour and employment work. On the litigation side, the team handled several contentious cases, including sensitive employee termination-related claims; while on the non-contentious front, it frequently teamed up with the wider firm’s corporate group to advise on due diligence, restructuring and other transactional support matters. Nevertheless, the practice group has undergone significant change, with the firm bringing in Vicente Umaña as department head, along with senior associate Carolina Castro, from Holland & Knight LLP, following the departure of former practice head Carolina Camacho S and senior associate Manuel Parra. Umaña is highly experienced in both individual and collective labour law issues, while Castro -also a dedicated labour practitioner- has particular strength in migratory matters.

 

 

Practice head(s):

Vicente Umaña


Testimonials

We are using PHR as a strategic advisor in an internal case. The team is very supportive in labour issues.

The team is fast, direct and understands the client’s situation to provide the best solution.

Key clients

Green Yellow


Ascensores Schindler


Placacentros Masisa


Nexus Group


MIH Edtech Investments


Riverwood Capital


HCL Technologies


Meta


Carcafé


Saur


Syngenta


ONGC Videsh, sucursal Colombiana


Jobandtalent Co


Latham & Watkins


Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP


Cristar


Markel International Services


Premex Colombia


Seppic Colombia / Airliquide


Work highlights


  • Advised Green Yellow in a labour case concerning employer liability over the death of an employee.
  • Advised Ascensores Schindler on a collective bargaining agreement with labour union, SINTRALBE.
  • Represented Placacentros Masisa in an administrative proceeding in the Ministry of Labour seeking the termination of an employee covered by health issues.

Quintero y Quintero Asesores

Highlighted as ‘a great ally’, Quintero y Quintero Asesores is valued by sources for its personalised service and strong responsiveness. The boutique is primarily recognised for its record in collective bargaining matters, but it also handles a significant volume of labour litigation and demonstrates growing activity in immigration. Labour specialist Ivan Quintero has acted as chief negotiator in over 600 collective bargaining processes, while fellow co-founding partner Saida Quintero is noted for her ‘unique way of communicating with union leaders’. The group additionally includes: litigation head Alejandro Arias; director of the collective labour department, Dina López; and associate directors Jaime Solano and Alejandra Soler.

Practice head(s):

Saida Quintero; Ivan Quintero; Alejandro Arias; Felipe Quintero; Jaime Solano; Alejandra Soler; Jorge Perez Casallas; Alvaro Martinez; Sebastian Navas Arias; Karen Mejia Miranda; Dina Lopez


Testimonials

We highlight the team’s timely and expeditious response to the different queries, its mastery of labour issues and its constant updating. We consider it a great ally to our company.

Quintero y Quintero is recognised as one of the best labour law firms in the country, and has many important clients, however, we have never had to wait for answers to our many questions. It always give us the time we need to advise us on all issues.

The firm knows our company in depth and is capable of anticipating our needs. Lawyers act as teammates and provide us with valuable advice for the business. We value its customer service and personalised treatment.

Felipe Quintero and director Dina Lopez stand out for their in-depth understanding of our needs.

The team is composed of qualified, serious, responsible professionals, with a high degree of knowledge in the matters under their responsibility. Lawyers are highly efficient and their response times are exceptional.

Saida Quintero provides special treatment to her clients, providing strong availability and knowledge and generating a great relationship of trust.

We work primarily with Saida Quintero and director Jaime Solano on labour and union law issues. Both Saida and Jaime have taken ownership of our issues to the point that we do not see them as external advisors, but rather as part of our organisation.

Saida Quintero’s memory is prodigious — she doesn’t miss a single detail. Saida has a unique way of communicating with union leaders in our organisation; she speaks firmly, but with absolute respect and cordiality, even when the meeting heats up.

Key clients

Pepsico Alimentos Colombia


Centelsa


FONECA – Fiduprevisora


Quala


Tucker Energy


Promigas


Ingenio Carmelita


Gerfor


Nexans


Acesco Colombia


Tetra Pak


Yanbal International


Accor Group


Work highlights


  • Represented Transoccidente in a claim brought by the family of an employee who died in a work accident.
  • Advised Quala on a strategic project, involving the analysis and dismissal of a group of workers.
  • Represented Tucker Energy in collective bargaining matters, including strategy design and planning.

Scola Abogados

A team of professionals with great knowledge of labour legislation’, Scola Abogados’ labour, social security, and immigration law department strikes a balance between advisory and litigation work. Clients are drawn from across Colombia’s key economic sectors — including energy and natural resources, life sciences, construction, technology and financial services — and it frequently acts for domestic and multinational companies. Co-founding partner Diego Felipe Valdivieso is particularly experienced in collective bargaining, transactional support, and immigration matters. Valdivieso co-heads the group together with Nicolás Rico Álvarez, who is noted for his focus on consulting and union negotiations; litigation head Pablo Hernández Hussein; and social security specialist Joaquín Rico Lara.

Practice head(s):

Diego Felipe Valdivieso; Nicolás Rico Álvarez; Pablo Hernández Hussein; Joaquín Rico Lara


Testimonials

It is an excellent team; all areas are synchronised and the information arrives on time and appropriately.

All the lawyers on the team were wonderful. Most importantly, we highlight the constant and direct communication, the assignment of experts in each subject, and the unmatched warmth and support provided.

It fields a team of professionals with great knowledge of labour legislation. We received responses and accurate advice on all issues.

Key clients

The Clorox Company


Bühler Group


Mallplaza


Vigía Group & Bergé Group


Ministerio de Vivienda, Ciudad y Territorio


Lineas Aéreas Suramericanas.


Applus Norcontrol Colombia


NH Hotel Group


Heel Colombia


Constructora Bolivar


Grupo Gloria Colombia


Grupo Bimbo


Transmilenio


Merck


Grupo Mapfre Seguros


Frontera Energy Colombia


Grupo Sanfer


Adecco


Allianz Seguros


Metro Línea 1


Work highlights


  • Advised NH Hotel Group on dismissal processes and the merger of 14 different companies, as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Advised Transmilenio on a collective bargaining agreement between the company and its union against the backdrop of a critical public order situation in the city.
  • Led Grupo Bimbo’s collective bargaining process with its employees (on a national scale).

CMS Rodríguez-Azuero

A destination practice for complex pensions and social security matters, CMS Rodríguez-Azuero leverages its extensive international network to excel in cross-border matters, including the application of multilateral pensions agreements between countries. The team also handles traditional labour and employment work, including disciplinary proceedings, redundancies, and litigation. Practice head Adriana Escobar specialises in pensions and labour law and steers a team that includes associate director Juan Carlos González, who ‘strategically manages risks’. Senior associate Sandra Mora, who is ‘very clear and straightforward’, and associate Mariana Garcés are also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Adriana Escobar


Testimonials

The team was very good indeed. We had a very delicate case which required a corporate lawyer and a labour lawyer. Availability for the briefing was amazing. The team needed only little time to understand the complexity and our needs.

We received clear indications about deadlines, which were met with high flexibility and accuracy. Communication was outstanding and all aspects were taken into consideration. Especially the execution of an unfair dismissal was highly professional. The team’s English level was outstanding.

Senior associate Sandra Mora was outstanding. She led the process of unfair dismissal in a charming and respectful manner, but also in a very clear and straightforward way.

The firm in general has several positive aspects: its response capacity is unbeatable, it makes you feel supported and well advised; flexibility in schedules and in the various answers required; strong quality of documents and advice.

Associate director Juan Carlos González, with his expertise and professionalism, has advised us in litigation and difficult-to-handle cases. Without a doubt, it has been the best decision to receive his expert advice; his warmth and precision makes him unique and he strategically manages risks.

Key clients

Sanofi Aventis


Diaco


Weatherford Colombia


Petrex


Elanco Animal Health


Fiduciaria Davivienda


Nuvalence


Ladrillera Santafé


Alan Bursztyn


Agencia GIZ


Publicis Groupe Company


Banco Latinoamericano de comercio exterior (Bladex)


Multinsa


Sika


Selazar


Darven


Andrade Gutierrez Ingeniería


MAB Ingeniería


Cerámica Italia


iFOOD


Work highlights


  • Acting as ongoing employment counsel to Petrex Colombia.
  • Advising Weatherford Colombia on labour and employment matters, including on the settlements of more than 26 actuarial calculations before different pension administrators.
  • Advising Fiduciaria Davivienda on the fulfilment of judgments handed down by the Supreme Court of Justice, via the implementation of settlement agreements, relating to payments of pensions to various former employees.

Cortés, Romero & Asociados Ltda

Bogotá-based labour and employment boutique Cortés, Romero & Asociados Ltda acts for a varied mix of small to large-sized companies, with particular activity in the hydrocarbons, tourism, telecoms, financial services, and technology sectors. Among the names to note, José Luís Cortés is recognised for his record in representing public entities in labour litigation. Cortés co-heads the practice together with dispute resolution specialist María Victoria Romero and Catalina Romero, who has a focus on disciplinary measures, personnel management, and due diligence.

Practice head(s):

Catalina Romero; José Luis Cortés; María Victoria Romero


Testimonials

For more than 15 years, the firm has provided us with all the necessary legal support on the labour side. Its support, advice, contact, and relationship management has been more than satisfactory, which has helped us to get ahead in our labour processes.

We particularly highlight the contact with partners. José Luis Cortés, Catalina Romero, and María Victoria Romero are always ready to clarify each of our concerns. Likewise, their guidance on all labour issues has ensured that the company is always up-to-date with labour regulation compliance.

The team stays very close to its clients, who are served directly by the partners of the firm.

Key clients

Seguros Del Estado


Herrera Laboralistas


Quintero & Quintero Asesores


Confehogar


Publimpresos


Bemel


Everis De Colombia


Hotel Cosmos


Energia Integral Andina


Universidad de América


Hoteles OXXO


Hospimedics


Acciones Y Valores


Seguridad Platimun


Concesion Runt


Interactivo Contact Center


Hoteles Four Seassons


Primetime Media


Modinco


Agencia de Aduanas BMA


Cameleco


Asociación de Padres del Colegio Leonardo Davinci (ASODAVINCI)


Caja de compensación familiar (COMFANORTE)


Tiba Logística Colombia


Milenium Asesores Integrales de Seguros Bogotá


Innovar Salud


Compañía Colombiana de Gas


Iberoamericana De Hidrocarburos CQ Exploracion & Produccion


Synergy Investments


Red Latinoamericana de Inversión Social y Filantropía Estratégica


Fundación Reselva


Centro Comercial Ciudad Tunal – Propiedad Horizontal


Zulo Arquitectos


Inversiones Mora & Candanoza


Castor Data


Ecopetrol


Fundación Mamá Yolanda


Surtifruver De La Sabana


Sonfónica De Antioquia


Liceo Juan Ramón Jimenez


Fundación AO Latin America


Talento & Talante


Work highlights


  • Ongoing advice to Ecopetrol on all its day-to-day employment matters.
  • Advised Flores de Tenjo y Flores Esmeralda on planning and executing a retirement plan for 300 workers, following the economic crisis generated by the pandemic.
  • Represented Milenium Asesores Integrales De Seguros Bogota in a lawsuit seeking the recognition and payment of claims of more than $300,000; it achieved the conciliation of the process for less than $100,000.

Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas

A strong performer in corporate support work, Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas utilises its full-service model and extensive international network to shine in advising multinational companies on M&A-related issues, corporate restructurings and local litigation proceedings. Department head Lorena Arámbula provides support on advisory and contentious labour and employment matters; she also brings to bear significant transactional expertise due to her active corporate and commercial practice. In August 2022, senior associate Laura Mateus was promoted to director of the labour practice; she advises on labour, social security and immigration law.

Practice head(s):

Lorena Arámbula


Key clients

Applus Servicios Tecnológicos


Transcontinental Printing 2007


Work highlights


  • Advised Applus Servicios Tecnológicos on the local labour due diligence aspects of its acquisition of K2 Ingeniería, a company with more than 300 employees.
  • Acted as local counsel to Transcontinental Printing 2007 on the labour due diligence process related to its acquisition of Banaplast.

Garrigues

Garrigues continues to make inroads into the labour and employment market following the May 2022 hire of labour and employment expert, and new department head, Carolina Camacho Solana from Posse Herrera Ruiz. The group added 16 new clients during 2022/23 — including Pernod Ricard and Syngenta — and has established a robust record in collective bargaining, restructuring matters, litigation proceedings, and compliance issues. The team has also been reinforced at associate level with the hires of principal Andres Felipe Paz, who joined in May 2022 and was formerly a freelance advisor; along with senior Manuel Parra, and associates Jairo Jaller and Daniela Duque, all three also being mid-2022 hires from Posse Herrera Ruiz.

Practice head(s):

Carolina Camacho Solana


Testimonials

We value the team for the advice and technical expertise of Carolina Camacho Solana.

Garrigues in labour for Colombia has worked marvelously for us, they are accurate, fast, very constant with the support according to the challenges that we have presented. There are very good labour teams in Colombia but I consider this to be exceptional. There are men and women equally in the team which indicates good diversity and effectiveness in the tasks they do for us.

Carolina Camacho and Andrés Paz have been an essential support for us and our operation, both are very clear, very technical and very friendly.’


Key clients

Coorserpark


Syngenta


Wellbore Integrity Solutions Colombia


TCS Solution Center Sucursal Colombia


Lucta Grancolombiana


Asurion Colombia


Ascensores Schindler


Knight Pharmaceuticals / Biotoscana


Ilunion Lavandería de Colombia


SAR Energy


GMS Management Solutions Colombia


COMSA


Andean Tower Partners


Rosen


Mapfre


Champion X / Apergy (Colombia branch)


Pernod Ricard


Sempertex


Work highlights


  • Advising Syngenta on day-to-day labour relations matters, including individual and collective labour advisory, social security issues and legal representation before administrative authorities.
  • Advising Wellbore Integrity Solutions on the day-to-day management of labour relations with its workers and its unionised workers enrolled to the Unión Sindical Obrera de la Industria del Petróleo (USO).
  • Advising Lucta Grancolombiana on day-to-day labour relations matters.

Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA)

Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA) handled a string of transaction-related labour and employment matters during 2022/23, including handling M&A-related due diligence and advising on the employment aspects of restructurings and office closures. Additionally, the team advises a host of multinational and domestic clients on day-to-day matters, including union law, social security issues and litigation. Director Mauricio Montealegre is dedicated to labour law work and steers the team. Support is provided by senior Natalia Suárez Caicedo - a March 2023 arrival from Baker McKenzie S.A.S. - and associate Lina Tapiero, who specialises in contentious and non-contentious labour and social security matters. Associate Maria Angelica Pulido left to join Boston Consulting Group in March 2023.

Practice head(s):

Mauricio Montealegre


Testimonials

In the labour practice, I highlight the quality of service of GP lawyers, their prompt response time, continuous advice, and anticipation of events to minimise risks.

The work team of the labour practice is incredible. It always has a high availability of service and response. Lawyers always demonstrate a good attitude, cordiality and respect for dealing with the client.

The professionalism of its lawyers, its mastery of the law, its promptness in responses, and its ability to listen and guide in the face of labour difficulties makes this office unique and highly reliable.

Specifically, I want to praise director Mauricio Montealegre and associate Lina Tapiero for their invaluable contribution in mitigating legal risks, timely quality advice, and empathy towards us, as their clients.

The GP team provides constant support and closeness to the client, and agility and speed in its responses, combined with knowledge in the area of practice.

We value the team’s closeness to the client, the agility and depth of its answers and advice, in addition to the ease of centralising international inquiries through its alliance of Affinitas.

Key clients

Quetzal International Services


CreateMe Technologies


GTM Colombia


BTG Pactual Sociedad Fiduciaria


Nexans Colombia


Nitrofert


Unicapital


Samsung Electronics Colombia


Inter-American Development Bank


FS Colombia – FlexSteel


Tripas de Colombia – Tricolsas


Terres des Hommes


Pulzo


Goldfish


Polypro


Exponencial Confirming


Onnet Fibra Colombia


Blockchain through CO Bentos


Congelados Agrícolas – McCain


Guerbet Colombia


Danish Refugee Council (DRC)


Sony Music Entertainment Colombia


IGT Foreign Holdings Corporation


Fundación Carulla Aeiotu


Corporación Andina De Fomento (CAF)


Industrial Agraria La Palma (in liquidation)


SK Rental


Fund for Policy Reform (Open Society Foundations)


Diakonia


Bank of America


Chemonics International (Colombia branch)


Estrategias Contact Center Colombia


SKN Caribecafe


Yanbal de Colombia


Mercy Corps


TIS Productions Colombia


Zimmer Biomet


Cegid Colombia – Meta 4


Colegio Campoalegre


Lexmark International Trading Corporation (Colombia branch)


Colegio Karl C Parrish


Comité Internacional de la Cruz Roja


Swiss Re Colombia Oficina de Representación


Semillas Arroyave


Cofco International Colombia


Sandvik Colombia


DIDI Mobility Information Technology


Toyota


Lulo Bank


Cryogas Air Products


Electribus Bogotá


UIB Corredores de Seguros


Siigo


Signify Colombiana


BTS Derechos Económicos


GMS Management Solutions Colombia


Iterum Colombia


Work highlights


  • Advised CreateMe Technologies on an indirect acquisition that had significant labour law aspects.
  • Advised Didi Mobility Information Technology on the implementation and management of local employment structures.
  • Advised Industrial Agraria La Palma (in liquidation) on transferring more than 620 pensioners of the company to the public fund of Colpensiones.

Holland & Knight LLP

In May 2023, Holland & Knight LLP boosted its employment group with the absorption of 28-lawyer firm Cuberos Cortés Gutiérrez (CCG), including its two-partner labour and employment team. The legacy CCG practice is well versed across the full range of labour relations, transactional support matters, social security law and litigation, while its new international platform equips it with significant cross-border firepower. Camilo Cuervo Díaz, who is currently the Governor of the Colombian Bar Association of Labour and Social Security Lawyers, enjoys a strong profile in the market for his comprehensive practice focus. Diego Mauricio Acevedo Gamez and associate Juan Pablo Romero are also key contacts. Senior counsel, and former practice head, Carolina Castro left the firm in August 2022.

Practice head(s):

Camilo Cuervo Díaz; Diego Acevedo Gámez


Testimonials

In general, the work team is very professional. We receive personalised attention, with a great understanding of the company, the sector and labour regulations, which makes its advice very successful.

There is a contact person, dedicated to our company, which makes responses very fast and effective. There is also direct communication with the leaders of the labour legal area, which makes the attention direct, efficient and effective.

The team is characterised by: its knowledge of regulations; its experience; its good relationship management; its good understanding of the company; its personalised attention; its efficient and effective responses; and its support and follow-up in cases.

Key clients

Motta Internacional


Alsea


Horus Grupo Oftalmologico


Biomax Biocombustibles


Gestiones y Representaciones Chia


iShop Colombia


Sanautos


Carbomax de Colombia


Smarthop Colombia


Helicentro


Guaicaramo


Termotasajero


EasyFly


Masivo Capital


Liga Contra el Cáncer-seccional Bogotá


Work highlights


  • Advising Guaicaramo on the design and implementation of an internal control and regularisation system for contractors.
  • Advising In Bond Gema on negotiations with the SINTRAINBONDGEMA union.
  • Advising Incolbest on its negotiations with the SINTRAMETAL union.

Lloreda Camacho & Co.

The labour and employment unit at Lloreda Camacho & Co. is arguably best known for its handling of non-contentious matters, including transactional support work — where it can team up with its corporate offering — and compliance issues. The group also stands out for its strong record in representing life sciences clients, in line with its firm-wide strength. Regulatory specialist Enrique Álvarez oversees the practice; he additionally heads the competition and data protection groups, and co-heads the life science department. Senior associate Rafael Abuchaibe is also a key contact and provides ‘proper and prompt solutions’.

Practice head(s):

Enrique Álvarez; Rafael Abuchaibe


Testimonials

The team integrates the internal policy of our corporation with Colombian legal regulations.

The team understands the needs of our company and is clear on our business vision.

The team combines experience-based knowledge with acumen and dynamics, which suggests a good mix of experience and youth. Lawyers are extremely reachable and interested in understanding our company’s particular scenarios.

Senior associate Rafael Abuchaibe is easy to work with, reachable and provides proper and prompt solutions to our inquiries.

Key clients

ADP


Advanced Sterilization Products Colombia


Atrys


C40 Cities


Danone Baby Nutrition Colombia


Festejos Mar


Final Site


International Materials


Oxfam


MullenLowe Group


The Walt Disney Company


Softtek


Productos Roche


Addeco


Casio


Boehringer Ingelheim


The Coca-Cola Company


Biomarin Pharmaceutical


Mullen Lowe SSP3


Work highlights


  • Advising Productos Roche on the implementation of a telecommuting policy.
  • Advising Productos Roche on the review of all labour and human resources policies to comply with labour regulations, and also on its hiring structure.
  • Advising ADP on its hiring structure, following its incorporation in Colombia.

Tannus & Asociados

A firm specialised in corporate immigration law’, compact boutique Tannus & Asociados stands out for its deep and broad coverage of global mobility issues. The five-lawyer team acts for an impressive raft of major domestic and multinational clients and is recognised by many as a go-to resource for complex immigration matters. Name partner Rodrigo Tannus receives strong reviews from sources for his ability to provide ‘personalised solutions oriented to the case’.

Practice head(s):

Rodrigo Tannus


Testimonials

The firm stands out for the agility, accuracy, and expertise of its responses. The firm knows the practicalities of business, is an expert in migration issues, and analyses the risks and realities of the environment. It has a multidisciplinary team, which makes it an ally to the business.

It is a firm specialised in corporate immigration law. I would highlight its deep knowledge of the subject. Lawyers are very efficient at their job.

Rodrígo Tannus attended to our matter. I would like to highlight that, in addition to being an excellent lawyer in his area and very knowledgeable about every detail, he attended to us promptly and warmly, regardless of the fact that it was a very complex case.

Key clients

Ruta N


Clínicos IPS


Cometer


Global Hydro


Cosmicgo


Disan


Compañía Colombiana de Cerámica


AGFA


International Rescue Committee (IRC)


Velocity Global


Work highlights


  • Advised the Sanofi Group on hiring national and foreign employees for its corporation, Opella Healthcare, through an assignment contract.

Acevedo Abogados Consultores S.A.S.

The ‘practical, committed and knowledgeable team’ at Acevedo Abogados Consultores S.A.S. is particularly noted for its activity in collective negotiations, including its recent work for Perenco Colombia and Stanton, among others. The group is also routinely engaged to support on hiring and remuneration schemes, mass layoffs, and administrative and judicial litigation. Managing partner José Darío Acevedo is valued for his ‘knowledge and proactivity’; he co-leads the team together with associate director of litigation, Yat Sing Chia, and associate director of the consultancy practice, Sebastián Altuzarra Rodríguez.

Practice head(s):

José Darío Acevedo; Yat Sing Chia; Sebastián Altuzarra Rodríguez


Testimonials

It is a practical, committed and knowledgeable team. Lawyers quickly answer the requirements with quality and are always thinking about the benefit of the client.’

We value José Darío Acevedo’ simplicity, knowledge, and proactivity.

The work team is always willing to support the client and provide solutions to the requirements in a timely manner, seeking to take care of the client’s organisation.

Key clients

Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Buenaventura


Grupo Mesofoods (Franquicias y Concesiones / Restcafe)


Informática & Tecnología Stefanini


Grupo Perenco (Perenco Colombia / Perenco Oil & Gas Colombia)


Tostacafé


Systemgroup


Stanton


Electrificadora de Santander


Federación Nacional de Avicultores de Colombia


Compañía de Seguros de Vida Aurora


El Viajero Hostels


Woden Colombia


Universidad ECCI


Fedeseguridad


Sistemas y Asesorías de Colombia


Sofka Technologies


Work highlights


  • Advised Perenco Colombia on the collective bargaining process with the National Union of Workers.
  • Advised Stanton on a collective bargaining process with the union, SINTRASTANTON.
  • Advised Empresa de Servicios Públicos de Santa Marta on the collective bargaining process with SINTRASERPUCOL.

Cardozo Ordóñez Ltda

A specialist labour and employment firm, Cardozo Ordóñez Ltda covers the full gamut of related contentious and non-contentious matters, with supplementary skill sets in immigration, and health and safety law. On the collective bargaining side Hernando Cardozo is the key contact; he is also noted for extraordinary cassation appeals. Additionally, Sonia Patricia Martínez directs the social security practice, while Catalina Cardozo Ordóñez has a strong focus on immigration law. At associate level, senior Camilo Andrés Salinas leads the litigation area.

Practice head(s):

Hernando Cardozo; Camilo Andrés Salinas; Sonia Patricia Martínez; Catalina Cardozo Ordóñez


Contexto Legal S.A.

Contexto Legal S.A. has strong experience in advising employers in the industrial sector on labour matters, including collective negotiations, compliance matters and litigation. Melissa Echeverri Duque spearheads the department and possesses broad expertise in collective and individual labour law, as well as social security matters. In July 2022, senior associate Simón Restrepo Calle joined the practice from Colombian beverage company, Postobón, where he was labour affairs co-ordinator; he replaces former senior Ana María Marín Higuita who left to study abroad the same month.

Practice head(s):

Melissa Echeverri Duque


Testimonials

The team demonstrates clear knowledge of legal regulations, which it applies in an honest, equitable, and responsible manner. Strong skills in communication and conflict resolution. If I compare it with other offices, for me it is the best.

Lawyers are timely, concise, clear and provide complete attention and excellent service. We also value their emotional maturity, ability to communicate, kindness and enthusiastic approach — they feel passion for their profession. They transmit security and are always willing to support.

The team that attends us is very willing. Lawyers care about listening and understanding the client’s needs and they analyse all the information to provide the best advice regarding labour queries. The team outlines all the possible scenarios regarding our issues, which generates credibility in its advice.

We highlight lawyers for their availability, listening skills and analysis capacity, response capacity, and knowledge.

Key clients

Laboratorio Médico Echavarria


Vehículos del Camino


El Colombiano


Choucair Cardenas Testing


Bearing Technologies


Webhelp


Anhídridos y Derivados de Colombia


Moldes Medellín


Grupo Argos


Dexco Colombia


Work highlights


  • Advised Bearing Technologies on non-face-to-face work models, following the  Covid-19 pandemic.

DG&A-Abogados

DG&A-Abogados is commended for its ‘excellent knowledge of the national labour regulatory framework’. The group handles a mix of collective and individual matters, with a prominent record in contentious work, including disciplinary processes and judicial proceedings. Department head Adriana Martínez specialises in labour and immigration law, with a focus on collective bargaining, labour audits and due diligence issues, among others. Karin Rojas heads the labour litigation unit, while of counsel Carlos Arturo Silva -a former auxiliary magistrate of the labour division of the Supreme Court- acts as an external advisor.

Practice head(s):

Adriana Martínez; Karin Rojas


Testimonials

The team demonstrates excellent knowledge of the national labour regulatory framework. The team’s availability and proactivity is very important to us.

We value lawyers for their knowledge, availability, and opportunity in legal advice.

The team knows the particularities of its clients. This allows it to provide comprehensive advice that keeps in mind not only legal issues, but also the implications within the framework of the client’s specific relationships.

Adriana Martínez and Karin Rojas are two outstanding professionals, who are knowledgeable about legal issues, and also maintain very good service dispositions.

Key clients

IBM Colombia


Termobarranquilla (TEBSA)


Outsourcing Servicios Informáticos


Fit for all


Banco Pichincha


D1


Colviseg


Humboldt Institute


Schneider Electric


Indega (Industria nacional de gaseosas)


Eventos Efectivos y Producciones


Yop Colombia


American Apparel Colombia


Athletic Sport


Terumo Colombia Andina


Makita Colombia


Work highlights


  • Representing D1, which has more than 10000 employees, in disciplinary processes at the national level.
  • Advising IBM de Colombia on various labour litigation cases.
  • Advising Termobarranquilla on day-to-day matters concerning its relationship with its employees’ union, including collective bargaining.

DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán

DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán leverages its internationally oriented full-service offering to specialise in representing large domestic and multinational corporations on recruitment, transactional support and compliance matters. Less frequently, it also handles labour litigation, including judicial and administrative proceedings. Department head Diana Zuleta is equipped to advise on labour, social security and corporate immigration law — both contentious and non-contentious. Associate Juan Pablo Prócel is also noted for his activity in labour and social security work.

Practice head(s):

Diana Zuleta


Key clients

Burger King


Macquarie Capital


Macquarie Asset Management


Nielsen


Twilio


ProQuest


Livanova


Infotrack


Cosmetika


Pandora


Apergy Usa Inc, Colombia branch (Champion X)


Uber


Axalta


Unity Technologies


Comercial Papelera


Tecnológica Colombia


Stanley Black & Decker


Cornershop Colombia


Waterlogic


Masivian


Maple Respiratory


Work highlights


  • Advised Pandora on the engagement of personnel to start activities in Colombia.
  • Advised Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets and Macquarie Infrastructure Partners V on labour matters connected to its acquisition of 50% of Odinsa’s road concession business in Colombia.
  • Advised Patria Investments on labour matters related to the acquisition of the Santana-Mocoa-Neiva (Ruta al Sur) toll road project.

Guerrero & Asociados Asesores Laborales

Established in 2011, boutique firm Guerrero & Asociados Asesores Laborales specialises in advising national and multinational clients on labour and social security law. With extensive experience in collective negotiations and bargaining agreements, compliance issues and litigation, the group is primed to advise corporate and public-sector employers across all of Colombia’s key industries. Managing partner Juan Manuel Guerrero is particularly well versed in collective labour matters, including bargaining processes, strikes and arbitral proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Juan Manuel Guerrero


Muñoz Tamayo & Asociados

The multidisciplinary group at Muñoz Tamayo & Asociados routinely acts alongside other practices from across the firm to provide full-service advice on labour and employment matters, with recent experience in contractual processes, compliance, due diligence and litigation. The department is particularly recognised for its ability to draw on its sports law offering to provide niche expertise in representing football clubs, including Azul & Blanco Millonarios FC and América de Cali. Team head Joe Bonilla Gálvez combines strength in labour, corporate, and public law matters. Associate Alejandra Vidaurre Tugues specialises in sports law, and labour and employment.

Practice head(s):

Joe Bonilla Gálvez


Key clients

FactorIT Ingeniería


William Grant & Sons Colombia


Johnson & Johnson de Colombia


Squire Patton Boggs


Arendal Colombia


Xylem Water Solutions Colombia


Azul & Blanco Millonarios FC


Monster Energy Colombia


Soldaduras West Arco


Aucerna (3ESI Colombia)


América de Cali


VSM Latinoamérica


Pepperl+Fuchs.S.


Club Deportivo Popular Junior FC


Avant Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised Soldaduras West Arco on the collective bargaining agreement between it and its union, involving over 90 affiliated employees.
  • Advised América de Cali on day-to-day labour matters, including hiring and termination of employment contracts with players.
  • Advised Monster Energy Colombia on the relocation of an employee who was not able to continue performing his duties due to a medical condition.

Parra Rodríguez Abogados

Parra Rodríguez Abogados mainly acts for domestic and multinational corporations in labour and employment work, but it also has experience in representing employees. The team handles hiring, contract termination, regulatory compliance and dispute resolution matters, and additionally possesses significant capability in social security and immigration issues. Following the departure of former associate director Nataly Traslaviña González, who co-founded Naro Legal towards the end of 2021, the department is now led by associate practice director Mariana García Diaz, a formerly independent lawyer who joined in February 2022. Tax and transactional partner Álvaro Parra Gómez oversees the practice.

Practice head(s):

Mariana García Diaz


Key clients

Netcracker Technology Colombia


United Airlines


BMC Software Colombia


Sudamericana Integral De Construcciones (Sudinco) Colombia


Knauf de Colombia


Fundación Abood Shaio


Corporación Instituto de Cultura Brasil Colombia (IBRACO)


Uberflug Colombia


Drillmec Inc (Colombia branch)


Soilmec Colombia


Seaboard Overseas Colombia


Obera


Sercel


Unión Israelita de Beneficencia de Medellín


Work highlights


  • Advised Netcracker Technology Colombia on labour hiring and termination and workplace regulation.
  • Advised United Airlines (Colombia branch) on labour hiring and termination, workplace regulation and labour harassment matters.

Gamboa, García y Cardona Abogados

Lawyers at Gamboa, García y Cardona Abogados are recommended for their ‘availability and creativity when analysing and presenting solutions’. The team’s experience encompasses a range of labour, social security and immigration matters, including recent strong showings in personnel management strategies. Department head Ivan Cardona Restrepo is primarily recognised for his record in labour litigation. The group also includes associate practice director Ingrid Barrero Valencia, who joined in July 2022 from Deloitte Asesores y Consultores. In October 2022, senior associate Edna Liliana Torres left to go freelance.

Practice head(s):

Iván Cardona Restrepo; Ingrid Barrero Valencia


Testimonials

The team possesses full knowledge of labour law in Colombia. Lawyers demonstrate availability and creativity when analysing and presenting solutions to situations that the company may face.

The team stands out for its experience and knowledge of the subject. Lawyers are available at any time for our needs.

Key clients

95/24 Colombia


Tigre Colombia


Hunter Douglas de Colombia


Ottobock Healthcare Andina


Internacional Dental Distribuidores


Orbidental


Remanso y Caudales


Jokr Colombia


Longport Airport Services


Israel Aerospace industries


Cosco Shipping Lines Colombia


Hunter Douglas de Colombia


AGP de Colombia


Mendebal


Terranum Desarrollo


Inversiones Libra (Hoteles Cosmos)


Confipetrol


Camco


Work highlights


  • Advised Mendebal on the inspection process carried out by the Ministry of Labour, in which an anonymous labour harassment complaint involving several workers was investigated.
  • Represented Ottobock Healthcare Andina in a lawsuit initiated by the former CEO of the company.
  • Advised Jokr Colombia on structuring and implementing labour-relationship models for workers who were hired to provide services in the different links of the business chain of the virtual platform.

Serrano Martínez CMA

The October 2023 merger of the Medellin-based Correa Merino Agudelo Abogados with Bogota's corporate and competition-focused boutique Serrano Martínez (SM) to form Serrano Martínez CMA opens the door for the new platform's interdisciplinary labour and employment offering to grow into a broader national market. Valued for its ‘solution of problems in a holistic way’, the practice group's recent activity includes advising on a mix of hiring matters, employee compensation schemes, regulatory compliance issues, immigration and transactional support work; it also has experience in associated litigious matters. The practice houses partners: Darío Ramírez Montoya ('keeps up to date on the regulations and trends') and Ana María Valdivieso ('proactivity, kindness, knowledge'), who folded her labour boutique into the former SM in May 2022; dedicated practice support is provided by senior associate Dayana Parra.

Practice head(s):

Darío Ramírez Montoya


Testimonials

The firm has a multidisciplinary team, which allows for the solution of problems in a holistic way. The team provides fast and practical responses, assuming positions and recommendations.

Darío Ramírez keeps up to date on the regulations and trends applicable to our sector.

The team stands out for understanding our business. Ana Maríá Valdivieso stands out for her proactivity, kindness, knowledge of the legislation and the support she gives to our organisation in labour matters.

Key clients

Grupo Sura


BTG Pactual


Solenis


Grupo Phoenix


Auteco


Astound Commerce


Idom


Mercado Libre


Umbral


PACT Inc


Summa


Aerolabor


Comfama


Laboratorio Clínico Hematológico


Cleverlynk


Grupalco


Omnivida


Comparaonline


La Haus


Matec


Work highlights


  • Advising BTG Pactual on all labour matters, including compensation, benefits, hiring, internal policies and personnel management generally.
  • Acting for Grupo Sura on labour and employment matters, including recently advising on inclusion and diversity policies.
  • Advised Solenis on the assignment of several employment agreements from a Colombian company to Solenis, as eh result of an M&A transaction.