‘Chile’s leading international arbitration practice‘, Bofill, Mir & Álvarez Jana fields a sizeable 21-strong department that has enviable expertise in arbitrations carried out before both domestic and international forums. Notwithstanding the uncertainty generated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the team has maintained a steady caseload in proceedings held under the rules of: the Arbitration Centre of the Santiago Chamber of Commerce (CAM Santiago); the International Court of Arbitration (ICA) of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC); the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID); The Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (SCC); and ad-hoc matters. Recent representative work includes defending clients’ interests in disputes involving the construction, energy, real estate and mining industries. ‘Simply brilliant‘ name partner Andrés Jana is a figure of international standing and one of the region’s foremost arbitrators; he co-leads the practice with the ‘very talented‘ Rodrigo Gil who is active in both domestic and international arbitration. Key senior associates within the dispute resolution team are Victoria Demarchi and Nicolás Zisis (both of whom have international associate experience), and Carla Dittus, who is an arbitrator at CAM Santiago; along with Alfonso Marcos, who returned to the firm in September 2020 after completing an LLM in Spain; and Jorge Rodillo, who was promoted in early 2020. Since publication, Dittus has been raised to the partnership - effective January 2022.
Dispute resolution: arbitration in Chile
Bofill Mir Abogados
Practice head(s):
Andrés Jana; Rodrigo Gil
Testimonials
‘Great strategic vision, which allows them to face complex problems considering all the variables and impacts with great degrees of confidence and predictability.‘
‘My go-to firm in Chile – they are Chile’s leading international arbitration practice.‘
‘Their international arbitration practice transcends the Chilean market, and they can (and do) compete at the international level.‘
‘They have a deep bench, and their attorneys are enormously sophisticated, experienced, and excellent at providing advice. It is a true joy working with the Bofill team.‘
‘Andrés Jana is not only Chilean’s leading arbitrator, but he is among the top international arbitrators worldwide.‘
‘Andrés Jana is simply brilliant. He lives arbitration, has great analytical skills, brings vast experience, knowledge and high levels of fairness and integrity, and is very responsive.‘
‘In addition to being a brilliant lawyer, Andrés Jana has the ability to co-design strategies that look at the reality of the business and not just the legal variant.‘
‘Rodrigo Gil is very talented and very experienced.‘
Key clients
Republic of Chile, Ministry of Public Works
Echeverría Izquierdo Montajes Industriales
Agrícola Corniglia
Empresa de Montajes Industriales SALFA
Work highlights
- Advised the Ministry of Public Works (MOP) on a potential ICSID dispute, to be brought against the Chilean Government by a consortium of French airport operators (Nuevo Pudahuel).
- Represented Chilean construction company Echeverría Izquierdo Montajes Industriales in a CAM Santiago arbitration against the Chilean subsidiary of Japan’s Mitsubishi Corporation, which concerned a contract for the construction of a thermoelectric power plant.
- Represented Agrícola Corniglia (Corniglia) in a dispute against Gestora Omega, which concerned Corniglia’s put option over shares in SMU (further to a 2008 shareholder agreement).
Bulnes, Urrutia & Bustamante
At boutique firm Bulnes, Urrutia & Bustamante, all its partners -and even certain associates- are arbitrators at different national and international institutions, and regularly act as ad-hoc arbitrators in cases; moreover, the 'extremely strong' eight-member team tends to assist with arbitrations (both domestic and international) that are highly complex or high-profile in nature. The three co-heads are Felipe Bulnes, 'undoubtedly an extraordinary lawyer', who has extensive experience in domestic and international arbitrations, both as counsel and as an arbitrator; Enrique Urrutia, who focuses on particularly complex arbitration proceedings; and 'outstanding attorney' José Manuel Bustamante, whose experience includes working in commercial arbitrations under Chilean arbitration laws, as well as UNCITRAL and ICC proceedings. The broad practice of younger partner Gonzalo Vial includes construction, energy and finance-related disputes, while associate Tomás Wolff acts in disputes administered by the ICC, ICSID, UNCITRAL and CAM Santiago.
Practice head(s):
Felipe Bulnes; Enrique Urrutia; José Manuel Bustamante
Testimonials
‘An extremely strong team that is very innovative, willing to learn about their clients’ businesses, and purposeful – but above all strategic.‘
‘Differentiates itself from other firms, in that the lawyers don’t simply solve a specific problem – they look to the long term and this is especially valuable.‘
‘Felipe Bulnes is undoubtedly an extraordinary lawyer with great business and long-term vision, and a strategic approach; and he has the ability to generate consensus in scenarios where one would imagine there are no points in common. He is also very clear in his ideas, able to express them, and generates agreements.‘
‘José Manuel Bustamante is an outstanding attorney – very detailed, methodical, involved in the clients’ business, and totally committed to his clients’ cases.‘
Carey
Full-service legal giant Carey fields a sizeable, 23-strong, arbitration practice that has extensive experience in national and international commercial and investment arbitrations; the 'top-notch' team acts before a range of local and international institutions, such as CAM Santiago, ICC and ICSID, as well as under the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) rules. The practice's attorneys are also experienced in arbitrating disputes in the media, construction, energy, mining and pharmaceuticals sectors (among others). Appointed by the ICC as a member of the ICA in Paris for the 2018-2021 term, Gonzalo Fernández co-leads the practice with Aldo Molinari, who handles environmental disputes and commercial arbitration; Ricardo Reveco (insolvency, bankruptcy proceedings and construction disputes); and Juan Carlos Riesco, whose broad practice includes national and international arbitration. Key associate support comes from the experienced Roberto Villaseca and Mónica Pérez.
Practice head(s):
Gonzalo Fernández; Ricardo Reveco; Aldo Molinari; Juan Carlos Riesco
Testimonials
‘Carey is one of the largest law firms in the country and their dispute resolution and arbitration team is top notch.‘
‘The practice has very high levels of commitment – all team members show absolute dedication.‘
‘Strategy and legal knowledge of the highest level.‘
‘A highly technical team that is permanently concerned with providing first-class advice to its clients – this is what distinguishes them from other law firms.‘
‘Carey has extensive diversity programmes in place and they pursue diversity values in practice.‘
‘Gonzalo Fernández stands out for his high legal and strategic analysis skills.‘
‘Gonzalo Fernández is extremely well prepared and sharp – he is also very available.‘
‘Both Ricardo Reveco and associate Roberto Villaseca stand out for their great technical capacity, as well as their analysis and strategy skills and constant willingness to answer questions.‘
Key clients
Sun Latam
Liberty
Mapfre
Work highlights
- Acted for casino industry player Sun Latam, in arbitration against Nueva Inversiones Pacífico Sur, which requested specific performance of a significant transaction.
- Acted for insurance companies Liberty and Mapfre in a dispute initiated by Empresa Portuaria Iquique and Iquique Terminal Internacional, which concerned insurance indemnification to be paid for earthquake damages suffered by the Port of Iquique.
Claro & Cia.
Fielding a 30-strong practice, the 'extremely competent and reliable' full-service firm, Claro & Cia., specialises in high-stakes domestic and international arbitration; the team regularly acts as counsel or arbitrators in international arbitral proceedings under the rules of CAM Santiago, ICC, International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) and the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), among others. The practice also houses several members who are on CAM Santiago’s roster of arbitrators. The department has five practice co-heads: senior partner José María Eyzaguirre G, who has extensive arbitration experience; commercial arbitration specialists Cristóbal Eyzaguirre and José Miguel Huerta; Nicolás Luco (energy arbitration); and Felipe Ossa (current chairman in Chile of the ICC Arbitration Committee and the Spanish Arbitration Club). Young partner Santiago Bravo (who made partner in January 2020), and senior associate Felipe De Marinis both regularly participate in domestic and international tribunals; fellow senior Vicente Portales' experience also includes domestic and international proceedings, particularly in relation to financial and construction disputes.
Practice head(s):
José María Eyzaguirre G; Cristóbal Eyzaguirre; Nicolás Luco; Felipe Ossa; José Miguel Huerta
Testimonials
‘An extremely competent and reliable firm.‘
Key clients
AES Gener
Publicis Groupe
Grupo Said Handal
Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel
Alto Maipo
SNC Lavalin
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
Jan de Nul
Southern Cross Latin America Private Equity Fund III
Central El Campesino
Work highlights
- Assisted AES Gener with an arbitration against Colbún and Enel, which arose in relation to PPAs.
- Acted for Publicis Groupe in arbitration proceedings concerning the alleged breach of a network membership agreement.
- Acted for Grupo Said Handal in an arbitration concerning the dissolution of Inversiones SH Seis.
Gutiérrez, Waugh, Jimeno & Asenjo
Arbitration currently counts for over 60% of Gutiérrez, Waugh, Jimeno & Asenjo's overall caseload. The 'very dedicated and knowledgeable' 16-strong team is consistently involved in high-profile arbitrations before prominent national arbitration centres, such as CAM, but also before international forums such as the ICC and the ICSID; generally, matters that involve complex disputes in the construction, mining, telecoms, energy, banking, finance, insurance and retail sectors, among others. The practice group's key figures include: the highly experienced Pedro Pablo Gutiérrez, long 'a lawyer with a strong reputation in the market'; Cristóbal Jimeno, who focuses on the resolution of financial, insurance and complex construction disputes; and administrative litigation expert Juan Francisco Asenjo, whose practice includes acting before arbitral panels on a wide range of disputes. The second line of notable practitioners includes Joaquín Castillo, the first non-founding partner of the firm, whose practice increasingly covers consumers rights; and associate attorneys Jaime Elgueta and Sebastían Zamora, who also assist with arbitration work.
Practice head(s):
Pedro Pablo Gutiérrez; Cristóbal Jimeno
Testimonials
‘Very dedicated and knowledgeable partners and associates, who assess and defend cases in a very professional way.’
‘A very competent team with high levels of experience in handling highly complex litigation in Chile.‘
‘Pedro Pablo Gutiérrez is a lawyer with a strong reputation in the market. He is known both locally and internationally, and is practical, agile and innovative when finding solutions.‘
Key clients
Codelco
Allianz Seguros
Glencore International
Meridiam LatAm Holdings
Empresas CMPC
Telefónica
Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones
Tompkins Conservation
Enjoy
AFP Capital
Moneda Asset Administradora de Fondos
Empresa Constructora Echeverría Izquierdo
Constructora Conpax
Agrícola Don Pollo
Falabella
Ortúzar, Vergara & Boetsch Abogados
With a 'deep knowledge of arbitrations', the eight-member arbitration/ADR department at Ortúzar, Vergara & Boetsch Abogados is best known for its involvement in major commercial arbitration (both domestic and international). The practice has particular sector expertise in construction, energy, insurance and reinsurance, real estate and finance; and is co-led by Alvaro Ortúzar, a consistent presence in arbitral matters, be it as party counsel or arbitrator; Nicolás Vergara, who is currently focused on shareholder, insurance and antitrust disputes; and Cristián Boetsch, whose workload covers construction and energy arbitration mandates. Growth in the team includes the 2020 elevation to the partnership of energy, construction and insurance arbitration specialist Benjamín Morales (appointed a young arbitrator by CAM Santiago as of 2021); and Diego Navarrete, who is 'is very good at managing complex cases'; his arbitral experience includes shareholder conflicts, particularly in the energy sector, and disputes derived from sales and purchase agreements. At associate level, Andrés Cáceres is the name to note.
Practice head(s):
Alvaro Ortúzar; Nicolás Vergara; Cristián Boetsch
Testimonials
‘The Ortuzar, Vergara & Boetsch team has deep knowledge of arbitrations.‘
‘Very decisive but also very concerned that the Judge will understand the problem and the reasons for the conduct of the client.‘
‘The plus of the firm is the knowledge and handling of all the information related to the mandate; they always review the background of the case in detail.‘
‘A very cohesive team, and there is good coordination within the group – it generates trust.‘
‘Great availability, and provides deep and well-founded analysis of the issues raised; they also understand clients’ sense of urgency.‘
‘Excellent knowledge and ability to handle disputes, while generating an environment of trust, which is later supported by the results obtained.‘
‘The entire team is very aware of the entire process, which shows the highly personalised dedication to clients; and the partners are an active part of the team together with the associates and/or collaborators. They also know how to listen; are very open to learning from the client’s experience in order to understand the position; and they do not impose their own visions prematurely or too hastily.‘
‘Diego Navarrete has international training far above what can be found even at the best Chilean law firms, and he is very good at managing complex cases.‘
Key clients
Sura
Liberty
Enel Green Power
Salcobrand
Vantrust
Work highlights
- Represented insurance companies Liberty and Sura in arbitration against Ripley, seeking damages after a fire damaged and partially destroyed a mall.
- Represented an energy generation company in an arbitration against several companies (owned by the Phoenix Group), seeking termination and damages of an option contract to explore the feasibility to build and develop wind farms.
- Represented Constructora Sigro in parallel arbitrations against Inmobiliaria Imagina (a residential apartment building developer) regarding six different construction contracts.
Barros & Errázuriz
Housing a team of expert arbitration lawyers, Barros & Errázuriz has extensive experience in arbitration proceedings before CAM, ICC and other chambers of commerce, with typical work for the group involving acting for major clients in significant arbitrations involving construction and energy projects. The principal contacts are founding partner José Tomás Errázuriz, who is overall head of the dispute resolution practice; and Luis Eduardo Toro, who specialises in complex commercial arbitration. Other active arbitral practitioners include Javier San Martín (dispute resolution, consumer protection, and reorganisations/liquidations); public law head David Cademartori, whose practice includes telecom- and energy-related international arbitration; and José Luis Corvalán (domestic and international commercial arbitration), who was made partner in April 2021.
Bofill Escobar Silva Abogados
Bofill Escobar Silva Abogados' sizeable, 24-strong team is highly rated for its experience in the resolution of complex and cross-border business disputes before international arbitration tribunals; and the firm has experienced notable growth in arbitration cases involving large infrastructure projects. Jorge Bofill consistently plays an active role in arbitral matters with international components, including cases before ICSID and the ICC; Sebastián Yanine has extensive experience in representing local and foreign clients in domestic and international arbitration, including commercial and investment treaty arbitration under ICC, UNCITRAL and ICSID rules; while Francisco Aninat's current mandates include acting for a pair of Colombian investors in a $350m ICSID investment arbitration against the Republic of Chile.
Practice head(s):
Jorge Bofill
Testimonials
‘The team has understood the case in an exceptional way, they have shown a thorough understanding of the case and a great commitment. I feel very well accompanied by this team and the commitment of lawyers. Jorge Bofill undoubtedly stands out for his great knowledge and his ability to see things that others do not see.’
‘It is the dedication not only to the legal problem but to everything that it involves.‘
‘Jorge Bofill is the most dedicated and studious lawyer in all aspects of the case and he also cares about being human.‘
‘Great handling in arbitration trials, good level of knowledge of different contractual forms. Good team of young lawyers with a lot of knowledge and motivation to investigate in depth the contingency issues.‘
‘They are a very good team led by a relevant partner. They stand out from other firms due to their excellent willingness to participate together with the client, listen to their concerns and suggestions and adapt them as appropriate. They also have a very good level of contacts with different stakeholders from relevant industries, constituents and public institutions, and a good knowledge of how they work.‘
Key clients
Sociedad Concesionaria Salud Siglo XXI
Inversiones Costa Azul
Sociedad Concesionaria Costanera Norte
Grupo Auguri (shareholder of Clínica Las Condes)
Enel Generación Chile
Colbún
Consorcio de Salud Santiago Oriente
Dominion
Carlos Ríos and Javier Ríos (owners of Inversiones Alsacia and Express de Santiago Uno)
Gerens Capital
Enel Green Power Chile
Chevron
Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel
Greykiwi People First
Work highlights
- Represented the Santiago Airport concessionaire in arbitration against the Ministry of Public Works for compensation for additional works.
- Acted for Carlos Ríos and Javier Ríos (owners of Inversiones Alsacia and Express de Santiago Uno) in a $350m ICSID arbitration against the Republic of Chile.
- Acted for Industria Metalúrgica Ursus Trotter in an arbitration proceeding with the shareholder of an affiliated company.
Ovalle & Bulnes Abogados
Dedicated exclusively to the resolution of highly complex disputes, boutique firm Ovalle & Bulnes Abogados has substantial experience in both domestic and international commercial arbitration, and is increasingly sought out for complex construction arbitrations. The team is also highly active in energy and real estate sector disputes. A former partner of the litigation and arbitration department at Carey, widely respected team leader Esteban Ovalle has been practicing for over 25 years; fellow name partner José Tomás Bulnes ('capable, diligent, focused, serious') is currently leading a number of high-stakes arbitration cases. At associate level, experienced senior Oscar Lihn joined in 2019 from the international commercial arbitration team at Herbert Smith Freehills' New York office, while intermediate Santiago Morandé, also a 2019-hire, 'gets the job done in a fast and thorough way' and 'has a great future.'
Practice head(s):
Esteban Ovalle
Testimonials
‘The Ovalle & Bulnes team is quite unique, because it is a boutique dedicated exclusively to litigation and arbitration issues. As a company, this gives us great confidence in their work, because they are 100 percent dedicated. The attorneys at Ovalle & Bulnes put themselves in the shoes of their clients and are always concerned that matters progress in the best way possible. We are very happy with their work.‘
‘Esteban Ovalle is a great lawyer in these matters, which is why he is a highly reputed lawyer in Chile. I would say that the conviction with which he conducts his analyses and draws conclusions is very accurate, as is his in-depth knowledge of construction litigation and arbitration issues. He is a very thorough attorney. José Tomás Bulnes is another important asset for us. Dedicated, studious, with a very cordial treatment, and one hundred percent committed to us.’
‘Santiago Morandé is an associate who has a great future. He is very studious and gets the job done in a fast and thorough way.‘
‘I can affirm that it is a team of great commitment, and with a special and concrete corporate and commercial vision of the business. I have seen how they develop their strategies with creativity and solid knowledge to face problems and solve them. Excellent office.‘
‘Esteban Ovalle is a high-level lawyer, whom I approached thanks to very good recommendations and he met expectations. He studied my case with great detail and dedication, which was seen in the great results we obtained. José Tomás Bulnes is very capable, diligent, focused, serious, I think that between them they make a great team, with a lot of talent, in addition. Santiago Morandé is a lawyer to take into account, he works hand in hand with the partners, he was always present and ready to answer all my questions.‘
‘Ovalle & Bulnes is a first class boutique firm in the Chilean market, it is a very established, very cohesive team that has been working with us for a long time and always obtaining very good results. We are working on several trials at the same time and on each of them, the attorneys perform with great dedication and skill.‘
‘Esteban Ovalle is an excellent litigator and a prestigious arbitrator, with a great ability to think out of the box and align different interests and agendas into one strategy. This is an extraordinary tool in a legal market like the Chilean one, which is increasingly competitive. We are very happy to be working with him. The same can be said of José Tomás Bulnes, with great strategic skills and a great negotiator.‘
‘The team is first class, not only in the professional aspect, but also in the human aspect, empathizing with its clients at all times, which gives a lot of confidence and tranquility, especially in these cases where one as a client needs understanding, efficiency and a lot respect for the complex situation that is being dealt with.‘
‘Esteban Ovalle is a great person, an excellent professional and a great lawyer who from the first moment showed mastery over the issues, calm in dealing, security and firmness in his actions. Generous with his times, and very attentive at all times, informed and skilled in every action he takes.‘
‘I must also highlight José Tomás Bulmes, another lawyer on the team, an excellent person, with whom we have had direct contact in recent years, handling our case with great care and professionalism.’
‘I must say that the relationship with all the professionals has been warm, humane and very professional. I feel that they have taken our case as if they were the ones affected, always attentive and giving timely notice of the progress and stages that we have lived.‘
Key clients
Codelco
Vinci Construction Grands Projets (Agencia en Chile)
VCGP-Astaldi Ingeniería y Construcción
AES Gener
Parque Arauco
Sacyr Chile
Salfa Corp
Elevation Investments
Grupo Hidromaule
Jardín Infantil Mandarino
Banco Central de Chile
Work highlights
- Acted for AES Corp and AES Gener in an arbitration under ICC rules.
- Represented Elevation Investments in a claim against UTROSA, which related to a sales and purchase agreement concerning a small appliances company in Chile.
- Acted for VCGP-Astaldi Ingeniería y Construcción in arbitration concerning an insurance company’s violation of its legal and contractual obligations.
Pellegrini & Rencoret Abogados
Following the July 2020 departure of former practice co-head Francisco Blavi, commercial litigation and arbitration boutique Pellegrini & Cía. reconstituted itself, making Pedro Rencoret (contractual claims, unfair competition and disputes requiring economic analysis) a name partner in February 2021, and renaming itself as Pellegrini & Rencoret Abogados. Highly specialised in disputes involving construction contracts, the ‘tremendously cohesive team‘ also represents clients from the energy and telecoms sectors in arbitration work. Name partner Julio Pellegrini (arbitrations involving contractual claims, torts and class actions) leads the practice, which, in addition to Rencoret, includes Fernando Zúñiga and Diego Ramos, both of whom were elevated to the partnership in November 2020. The associates to note are Bernardo Aylwin, a June 2020-hire from Enrique Barros & Cía, and Fernando Gazzella who undertakes both domestic and international arbitration.
Practice head(s):
Julio Pellegrini
Testimonials
‘They are the best team of lawyers I have worked with for arbitrations, civil trials and free competition issues.‘
‘They have exceptional teamwork and are very well co-ordinated, with equal participation of partners and associates.‘
‘A tremendously cohesive team, with the ability to get to the bottom of problems and develop strategies accordingly.‘
‘Permanent availability to answer questions and handle clients’ requirements. The teamwork they achieve is of the highest professional standard, complementing each other in a very harmonious way, and with great knowledge of technical issues, which generates a strategic look – concluded with tremendous success.‘
‘A really great strategic team that always looks to the long term in order to protect relationships with the counterpart (as we requested).‘
‘Its leaders are excellent lawyers, especially Julio Pellegrini and Pedro Rencoret, as well as new partners Fernando Zúñiga and Diego Ramos, and the associates. They go deeply into each case with absolute dedication, are always available, and open to receiving ideas from the client.‘
‘Julio Pellegrini, Pedro Rencoret and associate Bernardo Aylwin are an extraordinary team, who are highly prepared and with detailed knowledge of technical issues.‘
‘New partners Fernando Zúñiga and Diego Ramos are very good lawyers, and associates Bernardo Aylwin and Fernando Gazzella are also great assets.‘
Key clients
Bupa
Salfa
Tecsa
CMPC
Cruz Blanca
FMS
Iandes
Bezanilla Family
Work highlights
- Acted for Isapre Cruz Blanca in a contractual dispute with SalcoBrand.
- Acted for Empresa de Montajes Industriales Salfa (owned by SalfaCorp Group) in an arbitration against Cementos Bicentenario, which concerned the construction of a concrete production plant.
- Acted for Constructora Tecsa in a dispute against MBI over the construction of a commercial centre in Santiago.
Baker McKenzie Chile
Specialising in complex national and international arbitrations, Baker McKenzie Chile's 14-strong department (including two partners) is particularly focused on infrastructure, securities and mining-related disputes. Leading the Latin-American arbitration and dispute resolution practices since 2019, Rodrigo Díaz de Valdés ('one of the best arbitration litigators in the country') serves as arbitrator for CAM Santiago, and is a constitutional and civil law Professor at the Catholic University’s School of Law. Fellow partner Ignacio Naudon's disputes experience covers infrastructure, construction contracts, distribution agreements, securities, corporate law and M&A. Key associate Antonio López's arbitral activity (part of a broader contentious practice), centres on infrastructure and construction disputes.
Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Díaz de Valdés
Testimonials
‘A consolidated team with great experience and good diagnosis and prognosis skills, which generate confidence.‘
‘Perceived as strong and dedicated.‘
‘The entire team is at a very high level.‘
‘Baker McKenzie has the necessary experience and skills for complex arbitration cases.‘
‘Competent attorneys whose recommendations can be trusted.‘
‘They have the ability to understand client viewpoints.‘
‘Rodrigo Díaz de Valdés is always open to collaboration.‘
‘Rodrigo Díaz de Valdés is one of the best arbitration litigators in the country, he combines great experience and intelligence with his solid legal knowledge, given his capacity as Professor of civil and constitutional law at the best law school in the country.‘
Key clients
General Electric
Webuild
Clairvest Group
Cencosud
Ohio National
Yaeger Group
Astaldi
Black & Decker
Continental
Abbot
Work highlights
- Represented Sociedad Concesionaria Punilla in an ICSID case against Chile and related to the development of the La Punilla dam, a public infrastructure project.
- Represented Clairvest Group in a foreign investor protection dispute against the Republic of Chile (before the ICSID).
- Represented Astaldi In a highly complex international arbitration dispute against its joint venture agreement partners, which concerned the execution of an EPC contract for Santiago International Airport’s expansion (under ICC Rules).
Cariola Díez Pérez-Cotapos
Arbitration work represents approximately 60% of the work conducted by Cariola Díez Pérez-Cotapos' 'outstanding' dispute resolution department. The 18-strong team (including two partners who are listed as CAM Santiago arbitrators) has longstanding experience in complex arbitration concerning international infrastructure disputes, mining company-related energy supply contracts, and shareholder disputes, among other matters. The practice has four co-heads: litigation head Florencio Bernales, who undertakes arbitration in addition to his national and international litigation caseload; construction and insolvency expert Fernando Urrutia; Raimundo Moreno, whose experience includes ICSID investment arbitrations; and business litigation and arbitration specialist Jorge Boldt. Key support comes from senior associates José Ignacio Azar and Trinidad Torres.
Practice head(s):
Florencio Bernales; Fernando Urrutia; Raimundo Moreno; Jorge Boldt
Testimonials
‘Cariola’s legal team is outstanding; they have the internal analytical capacity to pre-empt scenarios and alternative courses of action during disputes.‘
‘They always surprise me, as the results are so good.‘
‘Its strong point is having a large and consolidated team with extensive legal experience.‘
‘They are capable of covering many and varied areas of litigation simultaneously – and with excellent results.‘
‘Correct strategy for each case and the correct initial evaluations of cases, which are then ratified by the resolutions of the arbitrator at each stage of the arbitration.‘
‘Florencio Bernales has great experience in complex litigation.‘
‘Fernando Urrutia’s skills are his commitment to the client’s cause.‘
‘Associate Trinidad Torres has, in a short time, shown great ability in this area.’
Key clients
BHP Billiton
Minera Escondida
Minera Spence
Sandvik
Planta Recuperadora de Metales
Sodexo Alliance
Enex
Loomis
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer
Cognita Chile
Work highlights
- Retained by Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer, as local counsel, in an investment arbitration.
Cuatrecasas
Spanish major Cuatrecasas entered the Chilean market in April 2020, hiring a key, high-profile disputes group from Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría, consisting of Cristián Conejero, a former ICC Secretariat Counsel for Latin America and who has a length trajectory in arbitral matters; Gianfranco Lotito, who undertakes both Chilean and international court and arbitration proceedings; and senior associate Juan Manuel Rey, an expert in both international arbitration and ADR. The seven-strong team manages international disputes arising from building and engineering contracts, energy agreements, international investment protection, international sales and supplies, and services contracts; other areas of expertise include disputes involving M&A, joint ventures, shareholders, agencies and commercial distribution. Since publication, Rey has been promoted to the partnership, effective as April 2022.
Practice head(s):
Cristian Conejero
Testimonials
‘Great legal knowledge and experience.‘
‘Cristián Conejero is the key figure.‘
Key clients
Accor Hotels
Garrigues Chile
Garrigues Chile's 'very strategic' five-member team has been particularly active, recently, with regards to corporate conflicts and construction and real estate disputes, as well as consumer-related class actions, and insurance, tax and administrative litigation. Leading the practice, Mónica van der Schraft ('extensive participation in arbitration activities' and the first female Chilean arbitrator to be appointed president of an ICC arbitral panel) focuses on complex arbitration and litigation proceedings. Key support comes from principal associate Cristóbal Sarralde, who demonstrates 'dedication to arbitration cases' and has experience in both domestic and international proceedings; and senior associate José Joaquín Verdugo, who assists with a variety of ordinary, summary, collection and ad-hoc proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Mónica van der Schraft
Testimonials
‘A very competent team, with a lot of attention to detail and very strategic.’
‘The quality of work of this team is comparable to that of other top-level law firms in Chile.‘
‘The team stands out for its commitment, as well as its direct and deep involvement in cases, which leads to a complete understanding of the case’s context.‘
‘Mónica van der Schraft is a very competent lawyer and a great litigator, with extensive participation in arbitration activities – I have the best impression of her and her leadership.‘
‘Mónica van der Schraft stood out for her strategy and commitment to clients in every sense, even attending board meetings to explain progress and results.‘
‘Principal associate Cristóbal Sarralde is very competent, very strategic, knowledgeable about the details of the case, and skilled at administering the evidence.‘
‘Cristóbal Sarralde is great for constant communication with the client, detailed explanation of all issues, proposing solutions, and his dedication to arbitration cases.‘
‘Senior associate José Joaquín Verdugo stood out for his tireless commitment, analytical capacity and tenacity, and the evidence was constructed and generated in the best possible way.‘
Marinovic & Alcalde Abogados
Marinovic & Alcalde Abogados is regularly sought out for high-stakes arbitrations involving public infrastructure/project concessions, construction and engineering, oil and gas, M&A, and trusts and large estates. Leading the team is arbitration, civil law and litigation specialist Enrique Alcalde, a former Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría (PPU) dispute resolution head (and since 2018 one of only 20 members of the Arbitral Commission for the Chilean Public Concession System). Providing integral support are fellow name partner Nicolás Marinovic, whose practice regularly includes complex arbitrations; and Benjamin García (a partner since 2019), who also worked with Alcalde at PPU and is an appointed arbitrator on the Santiago Court of Appeal arbitration roster.
Practice head(s):
Enrique Alcalde
Key clients
Inmobiliaria Pargua
Inversiones y Rentas Quimán
Inmobiliaria Zurich III
Inmobiliaria Los Queltehues
Work highlights
- Acted for Inmobiliaria Pargua in a complex arbitration seeking a limited liability company’s dissolution, due to serious violations of a partner’s obligations.
- Acted for Inversiones y Rentas Quimán, as shareholder in Importadora Café Do Brasil, in arbitration to determine the value of the ownership rights of a departing partner.
- Assisted Inmobiliaria Zurich III, which has a 56% stake in Inmobiliaria Encomenderos, in arbitration proceedings, following differences between partners.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría
Key areas of work for Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría's 'committed' 14-strong team include construction, energy, entertainment and insurance disputes, as well as real estate, concessions and infrastructure, and civil and commercial claims. Practice head Jorge Vial ('one of the best in Chile in this field'), who regularly handles foreign and domestic arbitrations, joined the firm in May 2020 from Vial Larraín Abogados, where he was founding partner. Notable associate-level support is provided by Catalina Amenabar, who has both local and international experience under CCI, CIADI, UNCITRAL and CAM/CCBC rules (among others); and Josefa Larraín, who undertakes litigation, arbitration and negotiation as part of a dedicated disputes' practice.
Practice head(s):
Jorge Vial
Testimonials
‘A very committed team that is tremendously knowledgeable in its areas and with extensive knowledge – better than many teams from other firms.‘
‘The team has extensive experience in arbitration; it is also very sharp in its analysis of cases and applies good strategies.‘
‘High-quality team.‘
‘Jorge Vial stands out – he is very smart and skilled.‘
‘Jorge Vial is considered one of the best in Chile in this field.‘
Key clients
SQM (and subsidiaries)
Sembcorp Industries
Aegion Corporation (and subsidiaries)
Yamana Gold
The Walt Disney Company
SABA
Pampa Camarones
Red Electrica del Norte
CONSORCIO
ABCDIN
Work highlights
- Assisted Singaporean utility company Sembcorp Industries with its dispute against Spanish construction company Aqualia, which requested the appointment of an arbitrator to resolve their difficulties.
- Acted for The Walt Disney Company in an arbitration involving the negotiation of Disney+ cable TV programming with VTR (a local cable TV provider).
- Assisted Yamana Gold with filing for arbitration against IMS Patagonia for breaches of contract.
Ugarte & Correa
Boutique firm Ugarte & Correa fields an impressive 14-strong team that specialises in both domestic and international arbitration under a variety of different procedural rules. The practice is particularly strong in arbitration concerning construction, mining, infrastructure, energy and concessions disputes, along with those with a shareholder element or antitrust aspects. The group is co-led by name partners José Joaquín Ugarte and Pablo Correa, who both regularly act before international and domestic arbitral tribunals. Notable growth includes the recruitment of dual-qualified (Chile and New York), senior associate Liat Tapia (commercial and investment disputes) from Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría in July 2020; and the recent hire of arbitral expert Crescente Molina as international counsel, further to his Oxford University doctorate. (Senior associate Karl Conrads is currently undertaking his LLM at Harvard). Since publication, Tapia has been raised to the partnership - effective as of February 2022.
Practice head(s):
José Joaquín Ugarte; Pablo Correa
Testimonials
‘Their strategic planning and dedication to each matter entrusted to them are of a very high standard.‘
Key clients
Albemarle
SCA
ICOM
Fleischmann
Desarrollos Renovables
Minera Cerro Bayo
Constructora Asturias
Hidrotattersall
GESEX
Fuente Alemana (Inversiones Ottone)
Pesquera Quintero
COEXCA
Sierra Gorda
ACF Minera
Empresas Santa Elvira
Chocolates del Mundo
Hisense Gorenje Chile
Inmobiliaria las Varas
Asociación Canal de las Mercedes
Work highlights
- Acted for Albemarle in an international arbitration that will define the price that Albemarle should pay to the Chilean state for lithium exploitation.
- Acted for Asociación Canal de las Mercedes in a dispute, which arose from the collapse of a tunnel inside an aqueduct.
Yrarrázaval, Ruiz-Tagle, Ovalle, Salas & Vial
Yrarrázaval, Ruiz-Tagle, Ovalle, Salas & Vial‘s experienced eight-strong team regularly acts in arbitrations involving the construction, energy, telecoms and finance sectors. Gerardo Ovalle is a professor of international arbitration at the Catholic University’s School of Law and has broad experience in ICC cases; he co-leads the practice with Fernando Salas, who has a solid track record in both domestic and international cases before the CAM, and also has extensive ICC experience. Younger partner Anibal Vial who was recently nominated as a Young Arbitrator at Santiago’s Chamber of Commerce is also a key practitioner. (Associate Miguel Dibarrart, who assists with complex arbitrations, is currently undertaking his LLM at Columbia Law School.
Practice head(s):
Gerardo Ovalle; Fernando Salas
Testimonials
‘The lawyers are able to understand the problems raised in depth and, therefore, understand expert opinions and their scope quickly.‘
‘Compared to other firms, it seems to me that the team is very cohesive.‘
‘A team spirit is very much alive within this firm.‘
‘They go into every detail.‘
‘The partners are directly involved in matters, down to the smallest detail, meaning the work they produce ends up being of high quality.‘
‘Gerardo Ovalle, Fernando Salas and Aníbal Vial are very good lawyers with great economic understanding of problems.‘
‘What impressed me initially was the courtesy and flexibility that was shown to me when I first called the firm to make an urgent appointment with Gerardo Ovalle.‘
‘The professionalism that was brought to the table by both Gerardo Ovalle and Fernando Salas, the time taken by them to understand the complex issue at hand, and the thought and care with their background research and investigations, contributed to a success that was ultimately achieved in record time. This certainly puts them among the best attorneys that I have worked with.‘
Key clients
Fourcade & Co
Chilena Consolidada Seguros de Vida
RMD Kwikform
Burger Grúas
Karamtara Engineering PVT
Viveros Copequen
Worley Parson
Inmobiliaria San Genaro
Work highlights
- Successfully acted for Fourcade in ICC international arbitration against Ferrovial Agroman.
- Acted for Chilena Consolidada Seguros de Vida in an arbitration against all the pension fund administration companies.
- Successfully acted for RMD Kwikform in arbitration against Sacyr.
Contreras Velozo
Contreras Velozo‘s six-member team, co-headed by experienced partners Óscar Contreras Blanco and Álvaro Awad, has extensive experience in both national and international arbitration, particularly complex and large-scale cases; its dispute-resolution assistance covers several industries, notably the construction, financial and energy sectors. Contreras’ experience includes leading high-value arbitration proceedings in the construction and energy industries; particularly experienced in CAM Santiago and ICC rules, Awad’s track record includes dozens of arbitral proceedings, both ad hoc and institutional.
Practice head(s):
Óscar Contreras Blanco; Álvaro Awad
Key clients
Falabella
Sanofi-Aventis de Chile
Caterpillar Financial Services
Caterpillar Leasing Chile
Interamerican Investment Company
Banco Santander
Genzyme Corporation
Aguas Andinas
Telefónica Chile
International Finance Corporation
TEP Chile
Inmobiliaria Manquehue
Astaldi
DirectTV
Sigdo Koppers
Mercado Libre
Empresa Servicios Sanitarios de Los Lagos
GNL Quintero
Universidad del Pacífico
Fernando Baldrich y Compañía
Always On Servicios Digitales
Banco Security
Work highlights
- Acted for Chilean football club Unión La Calera, and its holding company Andes Inversiones Deportivas, in a complex multi-party, multi-contract CAM Santiago arbitration against former owners of the club.
Coz Jofré & Blavi Abogados
Coz & Jofré was launched in early 2020 by José Coz and Álvaro Jofré (both formerly of Oddo & Cía), only to rebrand as Coz Jofré & Blavi Abogados, following the August 2020 arrival of a third partner, Francisco Blavi, from Pellegrini & Cía (now known as Pellegrini & Rencoret Abogados). Specialised in dispute resolution, the 'outstanding' five-member practice focuses on international and domestic arbitration, and litigation. Blavi acts in complex arbitrations involving construction, energy, finance and corporate agreements; Coz's experience includes very high-value disputes; and Jofré is currently professor of Universidad Católica's 'Complex Litigations and Arbitrations' seminar. Benjamín Letelier is the associate to note.
Practice head(s):
Francisco Blavi; José Coz; Alvaro Jofré
Testimonials
‘Unique in its professional capabilities.‘
‘Personalised attention that is difficult to find at other firms.‘
‘Complete availability, with a respectful understanding of the characteristics of conflicts.’
‘The team is outstanding – great attention and very diligent.‘
‘The best office with which I have worked – the people who make up the firm are professionals of the highest quality.‘
‘Constantly attentive and very detailed in the preparation of cases.‘
‘They seek to give a range of options to the client, thinking about the best possible strategy, but taking into account the economic resources to be invested by the client.‘
‘Compares favourably with other law firms.‘
Key clients
Hochtief
CMC Di Ravenna
Salfa
Astaldi
AFP Capital
AFP Cuprum
AFP Provida
AFP Habitat
AFP Planvital
AFP Modelo
FIMER
AVLA
Agrícola Bisquertt
Work highlights
- Representing Astaldi in an international ICC arbitration regarding the construction of a power plant.
- Representing Hochtief and CMC Di Ravenna in two ICC international arbitrations involving the Alto Maipo project.
- Represents AFP Capital, AFP Cuprum, AFP Habitat, AFP Modelo, AFP Planvital and AFP Provida in a high-profile arbitration derived from legislation that authorised the withdrawal of 10% of pension funds.
Fleischmann & Román Abogados
‘Prepared at all times‘, the 10-strong team at boutique firm Fleischmann & León Abogados is best known for its resolution of disputes involving infrastructure, construction, public works and mining concessions. The principal figures are Hernán Fleischmann Chadwick, an infrastructure and construction specialist, who is ‘a tremendous strategist with great business vision‘; fellow name partner Juan Ignacio León Lira, whose practice includes domestic and international arbitration; and Paulo Román Reyes (a 2019 arrival from the former Aninat Schwencke & Cia), who focuses on civil and commercial litigation, insurance and arbitration. Since publication, the departure of León in early 2022 has seen Román take on a name-partner role with the firm reorganised as Fleischmann & Román Abogados.
Practice head(s):
Hernán Fleischmann Chadwick; Paulo Román Reyes
Testimonials
‘They advise on disputes with a high level of involvement and availability, analysing all relevant aspects, whether technical or legal.‘
‘Prepared at all times for any scenario, which translates into solid strategies with great results.‘
‘One of the most important and differentiating aspects is that all the firm’s lawyers are in permanent contact and available, which gives us the peace of mind of always being prepared, and being able to face different conflicts in the most calm way possible.‘
‘Great experience and technical knowledge.‘
‘Superior to other teams from other firms, mainly due to its knowledge and close proximity to the client.‘
‘Hernán Fleischmann Chadwick is a tremendous strategist, and with great business vision that allows him to design timely solutions.‘
‘Hernán Fleischmann Chadwick is a very complete lawyer, who is fully focused on the client and the matter – he provides full, reliable and very valuable help.‘
‘Juan Ignacio León Lira has great powers of analysis, which allow him to be prepared and up to date on all our issues.‘
Key clients
Sociedad Concesionaria Túnel El Melón ll
Sociedad Concesionaria Concesiones
Urbanas
Venteko Montajes
WSP Chile
ICIL-ICAFAL
Fleischmann Chile
Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto Araucanía
Isotron Chile
Work highlights
- Acted for Sociedad Concesionaria Tunel el Melón II in an arbitration against the Chilean state and concerning the construction of a tunnel on Chile’s main highway.
- Acted for Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto de la Araucanía in arbitration against the Republic of Chile and concerning the construction of an airport in the Araucanía region.
- Acted for Sociedad Concesionaria Concesiones Urbanas in an arbitration against the Republic of Chile, which concerned the construction of infrastructure for public transport in Santiago.
Loy Letelier Campora
The 'solid litigation and arbitration team' at boutique-sized Loy Letelier Campora is co-led by the 'outstanding' Francesco Campora and the 'very skilled' Juan Pablo Letelier; both are experienced litigation and arbitration specialists. Campora has in-house disputes experience, having previously worked as Major-Projects Dispute Manager (in Chile) at BHP, while Letelier was the founding member of the Chilean Chapter of the Spaniard Arbitration Club where he remains on the board; both partners are also alumni of the ICC Arbitration Academy for Latin America (2016-2108). The growing practice -which added two associates and a counsel in early 2021- is strongly specialised in construction disputes in the mining, energy, industrial, commercial and infrastructure sectors.
Practice head(s):
Francesco Campora; Juan Pablo Letelier
Testimonials
‘Loy Letelier Campora has a solid litigation and arbitration team, which is most knowledgeable and very responsive.‘
‘They have a strong reputation in the legal market with specific strength in handling complex and high-profile commercial litigation.‘
‘One of the features that stand out for is the personalised engagement of the partners when handling clients’ issues.‘
‘Francesco Campora is an outstanding partner; he excels in the litigation and arbitration field and is quick to revert with sound legal advice, while remaining calm and transmitting confidence even during complex litigation scenarios. His academic work also stands out in the market in support of his litigation capabilities and skills.‘
‘Juan Pablo Letelier is a very skilled and experienced litigation partner of the firm and keen to engage with clients’ needs, while providing clear and practical advice.‘
Molina Ríos Abogados
Molina Ríos Abogados' eight-strong arbitration practice regularly represents national and foreign clients in arbitration proceedings (ad hoc and CAM Santiago) involving construction, major engineering works, infrastructure projects, insurance and reinsurance, energy and real estate. Arbitration disputes expert Carlos Molina has led the arbitration and litigation department since the firm's foundation in 1998; fellow name partner Victor Ríos' has notable experience in arbitration procedures involving hospital, airport and highway infrastructure projects; while Felipe Correa (a partner since 2019), is listed on the CAM Santiago's roster of Young Arbitrators (AJ-CAM).
Practice head(s):
Carlos Molina
Key clients
Vinci
Acciona
Grupo San José
OHL
Eiffage
Emin
Mapfre
Solunion
Applus
Banco Santander
Mpm
Work highlights
- Representing VGCP (comprising multinational construction companies Vinci and Astaldi), in disputes arising from the construction of Santiago’s international airport.
- Defended multinational construction company Acciona in arbitration brought by an international highway company for damages.
- Represented Constructora San José in arbitration against the Ministry of Public Works concerning the construction of two hospitals.
Morales & Besa
The ‘excellent‘ 10-strong team at Morales & Besa has been particularly active, recently, with construction-related arbitrations involving the distribution of risks in infrastructure and public works projects – further to the pandemic’s impact on the economic equilibrium of contracts. Recognised for his expertise in disputes surrounding construction and contract interpretation, Gonzalo Cordero heads the practice, which includes senior associates: Orlando Palominos, who regularly represents public works concessionaires before arbitral tribunals; Juan Ignacio Eymin, who also assists with disputes before arbitration courts; and the recently promoted Nicolas Corbeaux, who re-joined in 2020 after undertaking an LLM at NYU. Since publication, Palominos has moved to Lembeye Abogados - with effect from Janaury 2022.
Practice head(s):
Gonzalo Cordero
Testimonials
‘The M&B team is excellent; the preparation of the arbitration is carried out with great professionalism, they are always ready to hold explanatory meetings, and, at all times they keep us informed about the steps to follow.‘
‘They are very clear and the execution is very personalised – despite being a large law firm, the customer service is excellent.‘
‘Always ready to explain (in simple language) the actions to be taken and the risks, and the analysis of cases is very detailed.‘
‘Successful results even for the most complex cases.‘
‘The team has very good co-ordination with each other, always responding to our requests in a timely manner.‘
‘A great negotiating team that is committed and experienced, with a lot of skills in different areas.‘
‘A practice that is focused on arbitrations derived from the construction of concession projects. They are very orderly and hardworking, and do their job well.‘
‘Senior associate Orlando Palominos is one of the best that the team has – very smart and prepared.‘
Key clients
Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel
Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud
Cencosud Codelco
ABB
Nevasa
Sociedad Concesionaria Puente Industrial
Copesa
Constructora Ingevec
Efacec
Work highlights
- Acted for Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel (concession holder of the Santiago Airport) in an arbitration against the Ministry of Public Works, further to huge losses that derived from unforeseen and unexpected circumstances.
- Acted for Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud (concession holder to build and operate Hospital Félix Bulnes) in an arbitration proceeding against Astaldi for a series of breaches that compromised the concession.
- Represented Sociedad Concesionaria Puente Industrial in two proceedings before the Panel Técnico de Concesiones (disputes board), concerning claims based on changes in seismic regulations that impacted the design of the entire project.
Prieto Abogados
The second largest practice at the mid-sized, full-service Prieto Abogados, the seven-member arbitration team regularly represents clients before arbitrators in disputes involving energy, construction, real estate and retail. The practice is co-led by Fernando Samaniego, who specialises in real estate, construction and antitrust litigation (and is regularly appointed as arbitrator in construction disputes); and arbitration specialist Alberto González V. Also integral to the practice is founding partner Claudio Undurraga, an active member of the firm’s energy and arbitration practices; beneath partner level, the broad disputes’ practices of counsel Juan Pablo Riesco and senior associate Cristóbal Jiménez sees them frequently involved in arbitral matters.
Practice head(s):
Fernando Samaniego; Alberto González V
Testimonials
‘A great team with very good technical management and a lot of empathy towards the client.‘
‘You always get a complete answer from the team – something that is not easy to find in the market.‘
‘The team is very agile and gives forceful answers, with very friendly treatment and the ability to explain matters to the client in simple and understandable terms.‘
‘Compares very favourably with other firms.‘
‘Fernando Samaniego has supported, informed and assisted beyond the agreed fees, and he demonstrates excellent knowledge and skills.‘
Key clients
Engie Energía Chile
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
Compañía de Seguros Generales
Suramericana
Plaza HDI Seguros
VivoCorp
Aguas Andinas
Watt’s
Banco Internacional
GWC Inversiones
Inversiones Ferroviarias Bolivianas
Sibelco Chile
Work highlights
- Defended Compañía de Seguros Generales Suramericana against a claim filed by Surlat Industrial and Surlat Comercial for fulfilment of an insurance contract and compensation.
- Defended Compañía de Seguros Generales Suramericana against a claim filed by Inversiones Futuro, which concerned compliance with an insurance contract (further to flood damage to two buildings).